CX National Series begins with opening two rounds in Geelong

Geelong will take centre stage this weekend as it hosts the opening rounds of the 2025 AusCycling Cyclo-cross National Series, marking the sport’s long-awaited return to the city for the first time since 2019.

The course promises to challenge riders with a combination of high-speed tarmac sections on the criterium circuit and slower, more technical grass segments — with the added unpredictability of Victoria’s winter weather potentially introducing mud into the mix.

Across two days of racing, 14 events will take place, catering to a full spectrum of categories from juniors to elite riders.

In the elite men’s division, series stalwart Christopher Aitken returns in pursuit of another national series title.

Aitken, a perennial podium finisher, will face competition from cross-country specialist Cameron Ivory and former junior national champion Campbell McConnell.

The elite women’s field is equally compelling. Miranda Griffiths, who secured third overall in the 2024 series, will be looking to build early momentum in her campaign for the top step of the podium.

Hot on her heels is Isabella Flint, fresh off a thrilling showdown with Olympian Rebecca Henderson at the Mountain Bike National Championships in March.

With valuable national series points on the line, the action in Geelong will play a crucial role in shaping the championship standings ahead of the final round in Ballarat later this season.