Gold Coast Schools, Rocky Trail Academy is coming to Nerang and we’re ready to absolutely send it!
This race is for high school students, fostering a love for cycling in a fun and friendly environment. Experience the thrill of competition with 3 timed stages and 5 runs per track to find your fastest time per track.
The three distinct tracks catering to different abilities, riders can find their flow and challenge themselves at their own pace. With a focus on endurance, speed, and technical skills, there’s a track for everyone – the Academy is the perfect stepping stone into the world of mountain biking.
Riders compete for grade-based category podium positions for girls and boys – Year 7+8 (Junior), Year 9+10 (Intermediate) and Year 11+12 (Senior). Racers also earn points for their school, competing for the Champion School title. The flexible format, with no strict start orders, allows for a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Held on Fridays, these events not only provide exciting racing experiences but also engage youth in healthy outdoor recreation. Rocky Trail ensures a smooth and enjoyable event for everyone, making it easy for schools to participate.
Rocky Trail understands the needs of schools, teachers, and parents. Our team of experienced professionals ensures a smooth and well-organised event, making it easy for educators to plan and for students to simply enjoy the ride.
Join us for a day of friendly competition, school spirit, and creating memories together.
New to Academy racing, check out the Event Guide for everything you need to know. Jump on our Venue Guide for location and parking info. Hit the Stages Guide for info on all the tracks.
Race For Free in Queensland!
This year, we are officially a registered provider for the Queensland Government’s Play On! Sports Voucher program, making it easier than ever for QLD students to hit the trails at our local events.
date:
time:
9:00am-1:30pm
This event is proudly supported by these epic partners:
Destination Gold Coast!
As if you need an excuse for a weekend away on the Goldy with your mates! Hit the world class trails with us, then do some retail therapy or relax poolside!!
Tracks Guide
Shimano Track will test a riders ability to hold and manage speed. It will use the new “Casuarina Adventure loop Descent” into the last section of “Pete’s”. 2km long and drops 90m.
Bomber is the pedal test using the original “Casuarina” loop and including the “800m Extension”. 1.6km long and raises 25m and drops 20m.
The Technical test will be Sendy. Hitting “Three Hills” from the “Barneys” intersection watch for the roots and rocky drops then enjoy the jumps and pumps at the bottom. 1.4km and dropping 75m
Got a question, check out our FAQ’s or send us a message on the chat at the bottom of the page
Event Guide
Everything you need to know!
Essential Links
- Academy Event Guide
- Academy Rules
- Photo Links
- Volunteer
- Download Teachers Guide
Categories
- Primary – Year 5 & 6 (selected events)
- Juniors – Years 7 or 8
- Intermediate – Years 9 or 10
- Seniors – Years 11 or 12
Entry Fee
- Entry is $60.00 per student
- Open to all school students.
- Entry fee includes all rider photos ( via link to download post-event)
- Group student registration is available – contact jo@rockytrailentertainment.com to arrange
Bathed in sunshine from the ocean to the hinterland, the Gold Coast is Australia’s best known and loved beachside city. Only 12km from Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, Nerang National Park is home of one of the trail networks of the Gold Coast MTB Club.
The Schedule
The following is the standard schedule.
All participants must adhere to the 8:50 AM briefing time.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 AM | Event Village & Registration Open | |
| 8:50 AM | Compulsory Rider Briefing | The safety code word will be announced here. |
| 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Race Runs | Timed runs begin across the three stages. |
| 1:30 PM | Last Race Run | All timed runs must be completed. |
| 1:45 PM | Podium Presentations* | Individual and Overall Champion School awards. |
The following schedule applies to both 1 & 2 day events.
The Event Hub and Parking will be located on in the Gold Coast Cycle Centre.
Vehicles will access from Hope St.
Parking will be around the edge of the Crit Track and, In the scout precinct.
Marshals will be on hand to assist with parking.
Event Services
- Bike support will be available on site – Paul from Astroboy Mechanical services will help with any last minute bike issues
- Registration Tent with live timing, merch and race info
- Music and live race updates
- Toilets available on site
- Professional First Aid
Some of our awesome event partners will be showcasing their products throughout the event.
Stay tuned for an updated list of what we’ll have on offer.
We will have a coffee and food on site throughout the event to keep you suitably fed and caffeinated!
Food will be provided by team Dirt Monkey from Nerang State High School – Grab a burger, sanga sandwich or cold drink and support the fundraising efforts for the MTB program.
Coffee will be cranking by one of the best in the business – Colorado Coffee
Enter promo code RT2025 in the I have a promo code section to get your special discount!
