This loop will be a challenge, no matter what speed you ride. A combination of distance, climbing and technical ability are required. But don’t worry, it’s great riding out there

We have a few changes to the course this year, first we head out from Fiesta Village at Lancefield Park and directly onto the dirt. Trek up past award-winning winery Curly Flat and cut across the backcountry of Rochford and Newham. Some of my favourite little tracks to get me out and on my way. 

This year we have an early surprise for you: the BIG TREE DISTILLERY KOM! A short climb up to BIG TREE will be well worth it. Go for gold, because the Kings and Queens of the Hill will receive a prize from our friends at Big Tree. Afterward, we’ll cut down through their property and head back onto the main track.

Next, we hit the Cobaws! This is my hub, my newfound home for all riding disciplines. You will tackle the Ridge Rd Climb, before some rolling terrain through the middle of the Cobaw Forest to arrive at the main aid station CLUB SHIMANO, grab a brew from our friends from NICCOLO as you listen to the tunes from DJ Toby Smiley at the famous Burke and Wills Track. 

After a quick stop to refresh at CLUB SHIMANO, you’ll head across Burke and Wills to follow the road down out of the Cobaws and into the rolling rocks of Tooborac. This will blow your mind, that white winding gravel road disappearing into the distance, with some steep jags and fast descents, it is a mixture of everything. 

Another cheeky new inclusion is Johnsons Paddock! Over the past year, I’ve made some new friends, and we’re lucky enough to be able to ride up and through Johnsons Paddock. Don’t forget to pause at the top and soak up the view!

The further out you go, the faster it gets, with rolling gravel roads on the edge of Heathcote. Soon, it’s back into the forest for a chunky new section, brand new even to me! Carefully pick your way through this bone yard of obstacles and booby traps, it’s going to test your tire choice.

At the furthest point, deep in the forest, you’ll arrive at the Haunted House. Don’t worry if the bone yard slowed you down, here you’ll find bike aid from MAXXIS and JOES, with drinks, food, and support. It’s a long ride back. The return includes some testing climbs, including the BACK CREEK WALL, but you asked for a challenge, and that’s exactly what you’ll get!

You’ll hit a nice flat paved road to give you some respite as you roll into the Baynton Hall for some refreshments. Fuelled up again it’s time to get back up and into the Cobaws. It’s tough work getting to the Cobaws but all the while worth it when you arrive again at the Burke and Wills Track.

From here the tough part is done, you will cut your way back through the Cobaw Forest and descend down in the direction of Lancefield. Some single track will be littered on your way down into Lancefield to keep things interesting before you can see the township on your horizon. 

Leave some in the tank as you hit West Lanny! The WESTSIDE is the newest addition to the course and your final challenge. This two-wheel track takes you over the infamous 3-star sector, Pave du Lanny, a cheeky nod to my favourite race of all time.

The final kilometres will allow you to take it all in as you roll through the streets of Lancefield town and back to the Fiesta Village.