With the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships just weeks away, the form guide is starting to take shape, and Canberra delivered a timely snapshot of who is building at the right end of the season.
Rounds 3 and 4 of the Continental Series rolled through the nation’s capital, doubling as Rounds 6 and 7 of the National XCO, and the racing had a sharp edge from the outset.
A strong contingent from New Zealand added to the depth, with riders crossing the Tasman in search of valuable points.
One of the standout performances of the weekend came from Jack Ward, and the U23 rider continued his impressive run in the Continental Series.
Jack Ward continued his unbeaten run in the Continental Series.
Ward broke the race open and went on to claim victory by more than three minutes over Harry Doye. His winning time was quick enough to have secured the elite race as well, underlining how strong the ride was.
The elite men’s honours instead went to local rider Toby Stewart, who made the most of familiar trails to take the win.
In the elite women’s field, Rebecca Henderson once again showed why Canberra is a regular fixture on her summer calendar.
The multiple World Cup winner controlled proceedings across six laps on both Saturday and Sunday, riding clear to secure back-to-back victories.
Sarah Tucknott, returning to racing for the first time since the opening two rounds in Brisbane, put Henderson under pressure but ultimately had to settle for second on both days after a pair of hard efforts.
Sarah Tucknott on her way through the rock garden at Mt Stromlo.
Ruby Taylor continued her strong season in the U23 women’s category, taking another win as she builds towards the national championships in three weeks’ time.
Attention now shifts to Brisbane, where riders will have another opportunity to collect both national and international points at the Oceania Championships and Round 8 of the National Series this weekend.
Full results can be found here.
Photo Credit: Pedal and Pic Photography