Event Overview
The GWM Australian Open Criterium is held on Saturday 31 October 2026 as part of Noosa Triathlon’s Super Saturday program in Noosa Heads, Queensland. The event features separate women’s and men’s criterium races on Noosa Parade, run as high-intensity, short-duration contests around a multi-lap circuit. The official schedule lists the women’s race first, followed by the men’s race later in the afternoon. Licence eligibility requirements apply for both races.
What the Course Demands
This criterium format rewards repeated accelerations, tight bunch positioning, and the ability to handle pace changes on a short, multi-lap circuit along Noosa Parade. Athletes should expect sustained high intensity with limited opportunities to settle, where efficiency through corners and responsiveness to attacks or late-race surges can be decisive. With racing measured by time plus additional laps, the final phase often comes quickly and demands sharp decision-making.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event suits experienced criterium riders comfortable racing in close quarters and maintaining speed through frequent transitions. It is best aligned to competitive cyclists with the required Under 19 A grade licence or UCI licence, as specified by the organiser. Riders who perform well in short, tactical races and can repeatedly match surges from the bunch are likely to find the format a good fit.
