Tactical, tough road race await 2025 AusCycling Junior and Masters Road Nationals

A stair-step climb that tops out five kilometres from the finish line could be where the road race is won or lost for Australia’s masters and junior cyclists when they contest their national championships in Wagga Wagga this September.

With the climb followed by a fast, steep and non-technical descent, where it may be difficult to catch a rider or break off the front, it's expected to be a decisive factor at the 2025 edition of the AusCycling Junior and Masters Road National Championships.

While not overly steep, the climb features a series of short, steeper sections with some flatter sections offering brief respite.

The final kilometre of the climb is the steepest section, and riders will want to make sure they are within 10 to 15 seconds of the lead at the top of the climb, otherwise they may see their opportunity to win the green and gold jersey ride away from them.

From the top, it’s a full-on downhill blast for 4km — a section where riders will tuck low and bomb the descent to set themselves up for a mad rush to the finish line.

Starting in Wantabadgery, about 35km east of Wagga Wagga, the 31km loop features mostly rolling terrain and packs in 237 metres of elevation per lap – most of which comes in the 5km climb.

While the first 10km is tucked away along scenic riverbanks, the rest of the course is exposed with little shelter, so beware of the crosswinds.

This exposure could play a crucial role in shaking up the peloton, potentially rewarding rouleur-type riders who combine climbing strength with power on the flats.

“This year’s road race promises aggressive racing on a challenging course that will reward savvy tacticians ready to make their mark,” AusCycling Event Operations manager Road and Esports Carlee Taylor said.

“Whether it’s a rouleur who can break away from the peloton and stay away to the finish, or it all comes down to a select bunch sprint, we are sure to be in for some thrilling finales.”

Unlike the road race, the criterium course at the Wagga Wagga Multisport Cycling Complex is a true sprinter’s playground.

The course is tailor-made for explosive, fast-paced racing, with sweeping bends and three technical 180-degree turns. Designed for criterium specialists, it will reward riders who thrive on technical precision and power.

The individual time trial will take place on the first 7.5km of the road race course at Wantabadgery. The out-and-back course will suit specialists with just 69m of elevation gain in 14.5km.

“From the crit’s fast corners to the road race’s tactical climbs and exposed flats, the championships offer something for every type of rider. Whether you’re a sprinter, a rouleur, or a climber, Wagga will test your limits,” AusCycling Head of Events Road and eSport Jeff Corbett said.

“Special thanks to the Wagga Wagga Cycling Club who have assisted in putting together courses that are locally loved and well-tested, as well as organising volunteers and being on the ground to assist with preparation ahead of the championships.”

Riders can also preview the course ahead of time at the 2025 AusCycling NSW State Road Championships in August, so that they are prepared to hit the ground running come September.

The 2025 AusCycling Junior and Masters Road National Championships brings togethers Australia’s best under-15, under-17 and Masters 30+ road cyclists as they race for the green-and-gold jerseys of national champions.

The event is supported by Wagga Wagga City Council and will take place from September 18-21. Entries are open at AusCycling’s event page.

Images: James Raison