The FNQ Interschool MTB Race Series #3, set to take place on Sunday, September 6th at Smithfield MTB Park behind James Cook University (JCU) Campus, offers an exhilarating day of mountain biking for young riders and enthusiasts alike. The race is part of the Crankworx event series and promises a challenging yet rewarding experience in one of Cairns' premier cycling locations. Registration opens promptly at 8:45 am with rider check-in followed by a brief but crucial safety briefing starting at 9:15 am. Riders are set to hit the trails right after, beginning their race journey at 9:30 am sharp. The day culminates around 1:30 pm when the last racers cross the finish line. The event features both short and long course options tailored for different age groups and skill levels: - Short Course: Designed for Grade 5 to 8 riders (ages 10-13) and social/non-competitive participants, this four-stage race covers a total of 7.1 kilometers with 217 meters in vertical climbing.
- Long Course: Geared towards older students from Grades 9 to 12 (ages 14+), the five-stage course spans an impressive distance of 8.5 kilometers and includes 288 meters of elevation gain. Both courses include iconic stages like Whiskers, Centipede, Lower Pipeline, Black Snake, and for those tackling the longer route, Half Nationals. Each stage is meticulously marked with clear signage to guide riders through a mix of technical descents and varied terrain that showcases Smithfield's diverse trails. Participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the course ahead of time as all stages will be well-marked on trail maps available online or at local bike shops. Course tape and additional signs will also be set up just before race day for added clarity during competition hours. Safety is paramount, so riders must adhere to mandatory equipment requirements including full face helmets (with chin guard), full-finger gloves, knee pads, elbow pads, and a jersey that covers the elbows at all times. Additionally, carrying essential tools like multi-tools or spare tubes can make the difference between finishing strong and getting sidelined. Support services are in place throughout the day with water stations along key points of each course, providing necessary hydration and snacks to keep energy levels up. A feed zone located near Ricochet Carpark ensures riders have access to refreshments without compromising their race pace. The event venue offers convenient amenities such as toilets at the registration site and a BBQ lunch available for purchase from the Cairns Mountain Bike Club, ensuring all participants can enjoy a full day of racing followed by post-race festivities including prize draws and celebrations with fellow competitors. For those interested in joining this exciting mountain biking adventure, online registration is now open. Entry fees include an Aus Cycling Race License at $45 per rider or $35 for non-competitive entries (valid as of December 31st). More information about the event can be found on Crank Collective’s website and by contacting them directly via email at info@crankcollective.com. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with other riders, and explore some of Cairns’ best trails. See you at Smithfield MTB Park!
Races Offered
Grade 11-12 ( Ages 16+) Boys
Sep 06, 2026
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Grade 11-12 ( Ages 16+) Boys
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
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$31.24
Grade 11-12 ( Ages 16+) Girls
Sep 06, 2026
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Grade 11-12 ( Ages 16+) Girls
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$31.24
Grade 5-6 ( Age 10-11) Boys
Sep 06, 2026
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Grade 5-6 ( Age 10-11) Boys
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$31.24
Grade 5-6 ( Age 10-11) Girls
Sep 06, 2026
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Distance —
Grade 5-6 ( Age 10-11) Girls
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$31.24
Grade 7-8 ( Ages 12-13) Boys
Sep 06, 2026
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Grade 7-8 ( Ages 12-13) Boys
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
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$31.24
Grade 7-8 ( Ages 12-13) Girls
Sep 06, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Grade 7-8 ( Ages 12-13) Girls
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$31.24
Grade 9-10 (Age 14 - 15) Boys
Sep 06, 2026
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Distance —
Grade 9-10 (Age 14 - 15) Boys
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$31.24
Grade 9-10 (Age 14 - 15) Girls
Sep 06, 2026
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Distance —
Grade 9-10 (Age 14 - 15) Girls
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
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$31.24
Social all ages boys & girls Non-Competitive
Sep 06, 2026
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Distance —
Social all ages boys & girls Non-Competitive
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
$24.30
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Smithfield.
