AusCycling MTB development camps elevate rider performance nationwide

Aspiring mountain bike athletes from across Australia took their skills to the next level at three recent AusCycling Mountain Bike Development Academy camps held in Queensland and Victoria.

Focused on refining technique, building endurance, and strengthening mental resilience, the camps provided young riders with invaluable education both on and off the bike.

Held at the Sleeman Sports Complex, the Brisbane camp brought together 22 cross-country, downhill, and enduro athletes.

Guided by coaches, including Donna Dall and Brent Rees, riders engaged in diverse training sessions, from technical skills development to  nutrition.

A highlight was a visit to the Queensland Academy of Sport, where athletes explored elite-level facilities and learned about recovery techniques.

Athletes visited the Queensland Academy of Sport.

“The athletes embraced the challenges with enthusiasm, pushing their limits and supporting each other in an environment that mirrored elite-level performance,” interim Development Academy manager Donna Dall said.

“Beyond skills and fitness, we emphasised the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and self-reflection—key traits of successful riders.”

For the first time, the Development Academy also expanded to North Queensland, hosting 19 young athletes in Townsville.

Riders focused on cornering and pedaling efficiency while also participating in hands-on bike preparation and fitness testing.

Twenty-two riders gathered at Mt Buller in Victoria recently for a high-intensity training camp designed to prepare them for the 2025 GWM MTB National Championships in March.

Riders at the top of the downhill at Mt Buller

Riders worked with coaches Adam Kelsall, Damian Grundy and Indi Boer to fine-tune their race strategies on the Nationals course, while off-bike sessions covered strength training, mental resilience, and recovery techniques.

Instructor Cooper Downey highlighted the importance of teamwork and professionalism.

“The respect and team spirit displayed by the riders were incredible. They worked hard and learned a lot, and we can’t wait to see them in action at Nationals,” he said.

The next round of Expressions of Interest for the Mountain Bike Development Academies will open following the 2025 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships, taking place in Mt Buller from 11-16 March 2025.

More information is available at AusCycling.