Southern Peaks marks 10 years with an action-packed schedule upon return after last year’s event cancellation

Albany’s popular mountain bike festival Southern Peaks will make a welcome return this year, with cycling enthusiasts from around the State set to take part in the two-day event next month.

Southern Peaks will be held on September 23-24, marking 10 years since the first instalment of the event, offering thrill-seeking riders of any skill level, the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities.

Last year the Southern Peaks committee made the difficult decision to cancel the event, citing “reality is we have been unable to confirm sufficient funding to proceed without committing the club to significant financial risk” as the reason.

The event will start with a free pump jam session at the Youth Challenge Precinct pump track, the largest of its kind in Australia, on September 23.

This will lead into the inaugural WA State Pump Track Championships, orchestrated by Albany Mountain Bike Club and Southern Peaks, where top riders from around the State will compete with speed, agility and skill on the track to be crowned WA champion.

The evening will finish with the Jump Fest, which will surely be a favourite among spectators, as renowned freestyle BMX riders perform memorable tricks and aerial stunts under lights.

Offering challenges for thrill-seekers and speed demons, the event also caters for those who relish long-distance riding.

On Sunday, September 24, the Cross Country Marathon Race will start from the Marron Farm in Albany.

The event features three distances, 50km, 37km and 17km, and riders must navigate tough terrain and picturesque coastal landscapes before finishing in the heart of Albany.

Those daring enough to take on the 50km challenge will get the chance to hitch a ride on a barge, taking them from Voyagers Park across the channel to Emu Point.

Registrations for the cross country and pump track championship are now open at southernpeaks.com.au.