AusCycling is looking for emerging cross-country Olympic (XCO) athletes to travel to Canada as part of a Development Academy opportunity this year.
Selected under-17 riders will compete in UCI events against high-quality fields, gaining international experience with AusCycling support.
This initiative builds on AusCycling's successful MTB Development Academy programs in Japan in 2024 and 2025.
Races in Québec, Canada have been identified as a highly suitable next step in athlete development, offering strong depth of competition, technically demanding courses and a racing environment that supports learning, challenge and growth at the under-17 stage of the pathway.
"Riders can expect to be challenged technically, physically and personally," said Donna Dall, AusCycling's Development Academy Manager for MTB.
"Racing in Canada exposes them to strong international fields and demanding courses, but just as importantly it helps them learn how to travel, prepare and perform away from home.
"After the success of recent development opportunities in Japan, Canada aligns strongly with the progression we’re seeing in this cohort of athletes."
Details
Program objectives
The selected competitions and camp environment are designed to provide developmentally appropriate international exposure for under-17 athletes.
Key objectives include:
- Exposure to international race environments and UCI race formats
- Racing against high-quality international U17 fields
- Developing independence, resilience and professional behaviours
- Gaining experience travelling, preparing and competing as part of an AusCycling-supported program
This opportunity is intended to complement domestic racing and development programs, supporting athletes as they progress along the XCO pathway.
Competitions
- 31 May−1 June: Sherbrooke Canada Cup XCC & XCO C1, Québec, Canada
- 6−7 June: Baie-Saint-Paul Canada Cup XCC & XCO C1, Québec, Canada
Selection overview
Selection will be based on demonstrated performance, consistency and the standard of competition faced throughout the season to a maximum of 6−8 athletes.
To be eligible for selection, athletes must meet the minimum performance standard by finishing on the lead lap and have a total race time within 110% of the winning race time. Meeting the minimum performance standard does not guarantee selection.
Performances at the following events will be considered, with priority given to depth of competition, standard of performance and demonstrated consistency:
- Two top-three finishes in 2026 AusCycling XC National Series events - U17 XCO
- Top 3 at the 2026 UCI Oceania Continental Series Rounds 3−4, Mt Stromlo - U17 XCO
- Top 3 at the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships - U17 XCO
Where required, selectors may consider an athlete’s demonstrated consistency and quality of performance across the season when comparing athletes who meet the above criteria.
Key dates
- Competition performance period: 1 November 2025 – 22 March 2026
- Expressions of interest close: 22 March, 5.00pm AEDT
- Selection panel meeting: 24 or 25 March
- Athlete notification: 27 March
- Athletes depart: 24 May
- Athletes return: 8 June
How to apply
Athletes who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest.
Contact
Donna Dall
Development Academy Manager | MTB
[email protected]