Event Overview
Round 1 of the FNQ Interschool Challenge is scheduled for Sunday 31 May 2026 at Davies Creek MTB Park in Mareeba, Far North Queensland. This round is run as a cross country mountain bike race with school-age categories and a social/non-competitive option. The event hub is the Davies Creek MTB Park registration area, with plate collection from 8:45am, a rider briefing at 9:15am, and racing starting at 9:30am.
What the Course Demands
Davies Creek uses two set course formats: a short 2.6km lap and a long 5.5km lap, with category-based lap counts. The cross country setup rewards repeated, consistent efforts and the ability to manage pace across multiple laps. With no feed zone on course (support is at the event site), riders generally need to be organised with hydration and simple equipment planning before the start.
Who This Event Suits Best
This round suits school riders looking for a structured cross country race environment, including those new to racing via the social/non-competitive class. It also fits developing riders who can hold focus across repeated laps and handle the demands of a timed start and finish format. Athletes aiming to compare performances across grades and categories will find the clear short and long course options useful.
