Registration is still open for the Wagga finale. Photo: Supplied.
The Snowy Riverina 3×3 mountain bike series is heading into its final round, with riders set to hit the trails in Wagga on 21 June.
The cross-country (XC) mountain bike series has already completed two rounds and is proving popular with riders from across the region and beyond, attracting competitors from Sydney through to Wangaratta.
The series began in Tumbarumba, winding through the pine forests of Mason’s Hill — an iconic mountain bike park known for its fast-flowing single track and stunning scenery, with sunlight filtering through towering pines.
It’s not just about racing either. Tumbarumba offers a family-friendly day out, with the nearby rail trail providing an easy way to explore the countryside and, during winter, even catch glimpses of snow atop Kosciuszko.
But while the scenery is spectacular, the racing is no easy ride.
Competitors can spend up to three-and-a-half hours on course and cover around 60 kilometres, putting both fitness and resilience to the test. One of the quirks of the format is the final-lap rule — riders can head out for one last lap if they cross the line at 2 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds.
Despite the challenge, organisers say the event is designed for more than elite riders.
Families, juniors and first-time competitors are all welcome, helping create a social atmosphere where riders can race at their own pace, stop for a breather and simply enjoy the experience.
Kids compete in one-hour races on shorter courses, with the focus firmly on fun and getting out on the bike.
After rounds in Tumbarumba and Tumut, the series now rolls into its final leg at Wagga’s Pomingalarna Multisport Complex.
At the pointy end of the field, the battle for honours is shaping as a tight contest between Wangaratta rider Levi Billings and Canberra’s Glen Goggin. During the second round in Tumut, the pair were separated by less than a second on split times — despite racing for around three hours.
Snowy Riverina 3×3 mountain bike riders have to navigate some tough terrain. Photo: Supplied.
Part of the appeal of the series is how different each course feels.
Tumbarumba is known for roots and fast descents, Tumut for its rocky terrain and punishing climbs, while Wagga offers undulating trails, janky rock sections and technical features that test riders in different ways.
Local rider Sam Shipard welcomed the return of competitive mountain biking to the region.
“Great to see the revival of local MTB racing,” he said.
“There has been so many junior riders at the first two rounds. Hopefully that means this series will continue to grow in the future.”
With more than 100 riders entered, organisers are expecting a strong turnout for the Wagga decider and are encouraging visitors to make a weekend of it.
Wagga boasts more than 42 km of segregated bike paths, making it easy to ride into town for a coffee and explore the city alongside the mountain bike trails.
The Wagga course will be about 7 km long, with riders choosing how many laps they complete before refuelling with the traditional post-race soft drink and sausage sanger.
Whether it’s a first race or a 50th, organisers say the event is open to everyone — from five-year-olds to seasoned riders.
The Wagga finale takes place on Sunday 21 June. Register online.
