From children to seniors, beginners to pros, everyone is invited to join the fun and have a go at a free council community event in Caloundra on 23 July – a celebration to acknowledge exactly 10 years to go until the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games open.
Get on your bikes at Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails from 10am-3pm for an action-packed day of demos, trails, Have A Go sessions and rubbing shoulders with world-class champions.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said mountain biking would be an integral part of the 2032 Games and encouraged everyone to have a go at the 23 July event.
“This is a pretty special milestone – 10 years to the day when Australia, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“Our region is very excited about the opportunity to host the mountain bike event in 2032.
“We have a great array of mountain bike facilities in our region including Sugar Bag Road and also up the road at a proposed venue for the 2032 competition at Parklands, which will be a great asset for our region for many years to come.
“Who knows, on 23 July the next future Olympic or Paralympic athlete may be at this special event, but they’ll never know if they don’t have a go.”
Athens Mountain Bike Olympian Lisa Mathison said she was first inspired by the sport at age 12.
“I randomly picked up a copy of (US magazine) Mountain Bike Action while travelling in a remote part of Australia,” Ms Mathison said.
“Cadel Evans was on the cover of that issue, winning NORBA XC races at the time.
“I was amazed, not only that people were making a living out of something as cool as racing mountain bikes, but that an Australian was one of the best in the world.
“The following year, my first at high school, I saw a local interschool MTB series advertised, raced some other young girls on my fully rigid department store bike and was instantly hooked.”
The Brisbane-based Olympian, who regularly travels to the Sunshine Coast, said it was important for people to have a go at as many things as possible.
“This is the way you find the activities and people you most vibe with, making for the most fulfilling life,” she said.
“This is particularly valuable for young people, as it helps provide early direction, inspiration and a sense of community.
“With Brisbane 2032, I’m also excited for any potential development with regards to the Sunshine Coast trail network.
“As a spectator this time I look forward to attending as many different events as possible – things I would otherwise never get the chance to witness in person.”
2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games PCG member Councillor Peter Cox encouraged the whole family to join in the fun.
“There’s an introduction to mountain biking session, pumping and cornering activities, test your skill, experience the trails, bike shop displays and demos,” Cr Cox said.
“And it’s not just for beginners – if you are an experienced rider, there will certainly be something for you as well.
“Did I mention Former World Champion Janine Jungfels will also be there carrying out demos?”
“It’ll be a fantastic day of thrills. Even if you just want to be a spectator, everyone is welcome.”
Event details:
When: Saturday July 23, 10am-3pm
Cost: Free! Food and drinks available for purchase from stallholders.
Where: Sugarbag Road Mountain Bike Park
Registration essential for Have A Go Sessions. Don’t forget to BYO bike.
More information at events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/event/16259746-a/join-the-green-gold-runway-celebrating-mountain-biking
