4 May 2026
Sell-out crowds and new gravel routes headline 2026 Mudgee Classic
The 2026 Mudgee Classic, held across May 2–3, has wrapped up with record participation, as more than 3,000 cyclists from across Australia and the world descended on the Mudgee region for a weekend of unforgettable riding, atmosphere and country hospitality.
Part of Bicycling Australia’s The Classics series, the two-day event showcased the best of the region across both gravel and road, drawing a sell-out field of riders eager to take on the challenge.
Saturday’s Dirty Mudgee introduced brand new gravel courses, with hundreds of riders rolling out from Cooyal Hall to tackle 55km and 90km routes. The new courses delivered a true gravel adventure, winding through farm trails, quiet backroads and rugged terrain — a whole lot of grit and a whole lot of reward.
On Sunday, the focus shifted to the Gran Fondo, with four road courses ranging from 35km to 170km. Riders were greeted by a kind Mudgee morning and ideal conditions out on course, as they lined up along Church Street in a buzzing start line atmosphere before rolling out through the region’s iconic countryside and finishing at the Glen Willow Event Village.
Event founder James Yaffa said the energy at the start line captured the spirit of the event.
“The start line was definitely one for the books. Seeing a sell-out crowd of Classics riders lined up down Church Street, all ready to take on the day, was something special. The energy was next level, a real reflection of how much people are craving these experiences, and just how incredible the Mudgee region is to ride and explore,” he said.
Among the standout performances was Classics Ambassador Kate Lee, who was the first female across the line in the 170km Maxi Classic ride.
“It was an awesome day out. Vibes were high. Roads were smooth. Weather turned it on. Such a well-run event, so a big thank you to all the team and volunteers involved. Get around it for 2027,” Lee said.
In true Classics form, the event was about more than just the ride, with many participants choosing to fundraise for charities close to their hearts, adding a meaningful impact to their weekend on the bike.
The Glen Willow Event Village once again served as the hub of the weekend, featuring live music, local food and beverage offerings, and a showcase of event partners including Focus, GU, Advantage Legal, Bowy Active, Westfund, Kelly’s Irish Pub and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
The event delivered a strong boost to the local economy, with thousands of riders and supporters filling accommodation, dining locally and experiencing everything the Mudgee region has to offer.
Event organisers extend their thanks to Mid-Western Regional Council, Mudgee Region Tourism, Transport for NSW, NSW Police, volunteers and the wider community for their continued support.
The Mudgee Classic is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW.
The Mudgee Classic will return on May 1–2, 2027.
About The Classics
The Mudgee Classic is part of The Classics series by Bicycling Australia. Bicycling Australia is the nation’s most established and highly respected cycling media platform, in print and online for over 30-years and 253 issues. Over the last nine years, The Classics have proudly hosted Gran Fondo Cycling events in three states and continue to deliver the Bowral Classic and Mudgee Classic events.
Websites:
www.cyclingclassics.com.au & www.mudgeeclassic.com.au
For further details, contact -
Taylor Geraghty, Marketing & Communications
0426 601 933
Vanessa Burges, Event Director
vanessaburges@yaffa.com.au
0402 218 845