Luke Meier-Smith has written his name into the history books clinching his fourth consecutive downhill national title at the 2026 GWM Mountain Bike National Championships at Mt Buller.
Meier-Smith equalled Troy Brosnan's and Tracey Hannah's records, who are the only other Australian riders to achieve the feat.
“It’s super special. Every year just it’s another great opportunity to really inspire the next generation and to showcase my riding and do all of my family and supporters proud so super happy to come out on top again,” Meier-Smith said.
Luke Meier-Smith etched his name in history equalling the record of four straight national titles.
Meier-Smith posted a time of 2:53.907, ahead of Jackson Connelly (2:55.439) in second and Zac Bradley (2:56.439) in third.
Brosnan, one of Meier-Smith’s biggest challengers for the title in recent years, crossed the line with a rear puncture which saw him out of contention for the title.
“Every year it gets harder and harder getting my streak going,” Meier-Smith said.
“I came down with a bit of a flu last night that definitely didn’t help me.
“It’s such a physical track you just got to work for your speed. Definitely had a few loose moments but kept it together well enough to come out on top so yeah I’m super happy.”
Less than a second separated the top three riders in the U19 men's race.
Daniel Turkovic was unbeaten with a time of 3:00.000, with Jonte Tummon back in second with 3:00.294 and Oliver Colthup in third with 3:00.792.
The U19 men podium.
Results
DH - ELITE MEN
🥇 Luke Meier-Smith – (Manning Great Lakes Tip Riders) – 2:53.907
🥈 Jackson Connelly – (Jindabyne Cycling Club) – 2:55.439
🥉 Zac Bradley (Jindabyne Cycling Club) – 2:56.439
DH – JUNIOR MEN
🥇 Daniel Turkovic – (Garigal Gorillas Inc) - 3:00.000
🥈 Jonte Tummon – (Hobart Wheelers Dirt Devils) – 3:00.294
🥉 Oliver Colthup – (Toowoomba Mountain Bike Club) – 3:00.792
Full results can be found here.
IMAGES: Matt Rousu