The new Warby 100 MTB Marathon will bring a national title race, 600+ riders and multi-night visitation to Warburton on Saturday 4 December 2027.
Warburton Bike Park has been selected as the host venue for the 2027 AusCycling Mountain Bike Marathon National Championships, putting Warburton on the national racing map.
The event will take place on Saturday 4 December 2027, bringing together Australia's leading cross country mountain bike riders to compete for the green and gold jersey.
The event adds a second premier marathon to the Victorian cycle racing calendar. Warburton Bike Park's inclusion as a national championship venue recognises the network's growing reputation as some of the best riding in Australia. Warburton Bike Park offers a combination of flowing trails, challenging climbs and technical features that will provide a true test of riders' skill, technical mastery and endurance over the marathon distance.
The championships will be held as part of the 'Warby 100: MTB Marathon' event. Elite riders will chase national titles over the full 100km, while shorter 80km, 50km and 30km races will also be featured as part of the day.
A major boost to Warburton
More than 600 riders plus support crews, families and friends are expected, with many travelling from interstate. With the course open for practice on Friday 3 December, most visitors are expected to arrive on Thursday and stay through to Sunday to make the most of the trails.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins said that the championships are exactly the kind of outcome Warburton Bike Park was built to deliver.
"Those multi-night stays mean full accommodation, busy cafés, restaurants and pubs, and extra trade for bike shops, retailers and service providers across Warburton and the Upper Yarra," Cr Higgins said.
"Being chosen to host a national championship is a proud moment for Warburton and the whole Yarra Ranges. When we set out to build Warburton Bike Park, we said it would bring visitors to town, support our local businesses and create a lasting economic boost for the Upper Yarra. Riders and their families staying three or four nights, eating in our cafés and exploring the Valley, is exactly what that looks like.
"This is one of many events we expect to welcome to Warburton in the years ahead, and it shows the region is ready to host riders from right across the country."
Rohin Adams, Director of race organisers, Big Hill Events, said hosting the major event at Warburton Bike Park was an exciting milestone for mountain biking in Victoria.
"It's been exciting seeing the Warburton Bike Park evolve over the last two years, with each trail and stage opening presenting a new course opportunity. New trails not yet opened are going to see more XC tech come into play, and we are super excited to be hosting in this amazing location."
