Wining and Dining
Cycle Epic and Trail Run
If you have ever thought about stepping up your family adventures, I’ve got the perfect weekend for you! Now in its 15th year, the Flight Centre Sports and Events Cycle Epic and Trail Run is on at Hidden Vale Adventure Park near Grandchester on 9-10 September and has a huge range of events to suit everyone in the family.
On the Mountain Bike…
The main event is the 87km Epic MTB race. It is Australia’s original mountain bike marathon which started in 2003 and is now Australia’s premier cross country race. Elite riders will be competing on the 87km course as part of the Australian XCM Championships. These guys have been competing all season and this is round six so they will be absolutely flying!
If you are ready to tackle the 87km challenge but aren’t an elite rider, never fear. You can compete in your age category and just aim to complete it or go as hard as you want. The course is off-road single track purpose-built for mountain bike riding so it is a ton of fun.
Other MTB events include the 50km and 20km races and a range of kids and family races.
Ipswich City Council Free Family Ride
This is a free event for the family – come along and race the kids. It’s 4.2km with fun categories and there will be spot prizes given out. It’s a great way to get fit and active as a family and try some of the trails at Hidden Vale. Register online prior to the weekend.
Trail Run Epic
If you are more comfortable with your feet hitting the trails, then there are a range of trail run distances to choose from as well. Take your pick between 4.2km, 11.5km or if you’re keen – the half marathon (21.1km). Maybe you’re a runner and you’ve wondered what all the fuss is about trail running? Come and try it, you’ll be hooked!
Male/Female of Epic Endurance
The ultimate title is that of Male/Female of Epic Endurance. There will be some incredibly fit (and quite possibly a bit crazy) men and women who are competing in the half marathon trail run on the Saturday and the 87km Epic MTB race on Sunday. The male and female with the fastest overall time will win the glory, honour and accolades that come with the title.
Camping and Catering
These events are the only time that the property is open for camping, and we always have a ton of fun socialising with old friends and new friends. Our boys meet new mates have a great time all weekend. If you are too exhausted to cook then breakfast, lunch and dinner are catered by Spicers and the cost of the food is really reasonable. Kids’ activities include a jumping castle, a slide and rock climbing and you can pre-purchase a Play Pass online.
This is an event that we have been looking forward to for a really long time – there’s nothing else like it! The boys can’t wait to get into the action and hit the trails.
For more info about the schedule, events and entry, visit www.cycleepic.com and we’ll see you there!