Budding mountain bikers have been encouraged to take part in a special event in the countdown to the 2032 Games.
From children to seniors and from beginners to pros, everyone is invited to join the fun and #HaveaGo at a free council community event at Caloundra on July 23.
The event is a celebration to acknowledge 10 years to go until the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when the globe’s best riders will battle for gold on the Sunshine Coast.
The #Haveago event will include demos, trails, sessions and the chance for riders to rub shoulders with world-class champions at Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails from 10am to 3pm.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson said mountain biking would be an integral part of the Games and he encouraged everyone to have a go at the event.
“This is a pretty special milestone – 10 years to the day when Australia, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.
“Our region is very excited about the opportunity to host the mountain bike event in 2032.
“We have a great array of mountain bike facilities in our region including Sugar Bag Road and also up the road at a proposed venue for the 2032 competition at Parklands, which will be a great asset for our region for many years to come.
“Who knows, on July 23 the next future Olympic or Paralympic athlete may be at this special event, but they’ll never know if they don’t have a go.”
Athens Mountain Bike Olympian Lisa Mathison said she was first inspired by the sport at age 12.
“I randomly picked up a copy of (US magazine) Mountain Bike Action while travelling in a remote part of Australia,” she said.
“Cadel Evans was on the cover of that issue, winning NORBA XC races at the time.
“I was amazed, not only that people were making a living out of something as cool as racing mountain bikes, but that an Australian was one of the best in the world.
“The following year, my first at high school, I saw a local inter-school MTB series advertised, raced some other young girls on my fully rigid department store bike and was instantly hooked.”
The Brisbane-based Olympian, who regularly travelled to the Sunshine Coast, said it was important for people to have a go at as many things as possible.
“This is the way you find the activities and people you most vibe with, making for the most fulfilling life,” she said.
“This is particularly valuable for young people, as it helps provide early direction, inspiration and a sense of community.
“With Brisbane 2032, I’m also excited for any potential development with regards to the Sunshine Coast trail network.
“As a spectator this time, I look forward to attending as many different events as possible, things I would otherwise never get the chance to witness in person.”
The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games PCG member Councillor Peter Cox encouraged everyone to join in the fun.
“There’s an introduction to mountain biking session, pumping and cornering activities, test your skill, experience the trails, bike shop displays and demos,” he said.
“And it’s not just for beginners. If you are an experienced rider, there will certainly be something for you as well.
“Did I mention former world champion Janine Jungfels will also be there, carrying out demos?
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“It’ll be a fantastic day of thrills. Even if you just want to be a spectator, everyone is welcome.”
The event includes food and drink stalls, bike shop and bike industry displays and demonstration bike displays.
The program includes guest speakers Ms Mathison, sport ambassadors Hayley Oakes, Holly Lubcke and national sporting coach Donna Dall.
#HaveaGo Mountain Bike Session
Where: Sugarbag Road Mountain Bike Park, Sugarbag Road, Caloundra West.
When: Saturday, July 23, 10am to 3pm.
Cost: Free. Registration essential via Sunshine Coast Events. Food and drinks available for purchase from stallholders. Don’t forget to bring your own bike.
More information via Sunshine Coast Events.
