Thrilling XC National Series opener set to ignite in Bendigo

The opening rounds of the 2025 AusCycling XC National Series are set to light up Bendigo, Victoria this December, with the first two rounds of the six-race series taking place on December 14-15 2024.

The event marks the beginning of an exciting national series that will see elite riders, juniors, and age category participants all battling for points to be crowned the national series overall champion.

The weekend will feature thrilling cross-country racing across all categories, starting with the elite women’s race on Saturday at 9:30 AM, followed by the elite men’s race at 1:00 PM.

The series will continue through to Hobart and Canberra in the new year, with the 2025 GWM National Championships to be held at Mt Buller in March 12-16.

This weekend will see Jack Ward, the defending Elite Men’s National Series champion, return to the start line in Bendigo as he begins his title defence. Ward will face fierce competition from the likes of Harry Doye, the reigning Under 19 National Champion, and Joel Dodds, the Under 23 National Champion. As well as the experienced Scott Bowden and Reece Tucknott to mention a few.

The men’s field promises intense competition and high-paced racing as riders seek to get an early advantage in the series.

In the Elite Women’s race, Bendigo’s own Courtney Sherwell will take advantage of her local course knowledge to challenge the strong competition. Sherwell, had a brilliant 2024 which saw her win two national championship titles one in the marathon and the other on gravel.

She will face off against top contenders, including Armidale's Katherine Hosking, a perennial favourite in Australian XC racing, and Kathryn McInerney, a consistent podium finisher.

With top talent across the field, the elite women’s race is expected to be a real game of cat and mouse.

For the junior and under 17 riders, the Bendigo rounds are an important opportunity to build up valuable points as they look ahead to the 2025 GWM National Championships at Mt Buller in a few months. These riders will be keen to make their mark on the national stage, competing in a fiercely competitive field alongside their older counterparts.

The event will also feature exciting racing across various age categories, including Under 13s and E-Bike support races, offering a chance for riders of all levels to take part in the action.

The Bendigo rounds of the 2025 AusCycling XC National Series promise to deliver an exciting weekend of cross-country racing, showcasing the depth and talent of Australia’s MTB community.

Entries will close Wednesday 12th 3pm (AEDT).

You can enter here.

Main Image: Matthew Saxon