The Redback MTB Stage Race 2022

The Legacy of The Redback MTB Stage Race – Entries Now Open

Press Release / 07.02.2022

Mountain bike stage racing in Australia is soaring in popularity of late, and if you haven’t already experienced the likes of The Redback MTB Stage Race in Alice Springs, NT, then now is a great time!

First established in 2008, The Redback is one of Australia’s longest running stage races and has stood the test of time for great reason.

The uniqueness of racing through the Red Centre on the infinite network of hand built single track attracts riders from across the Country. Combined with the friendly race atmosphere and the easy race logistics, it’s no wonder many riders come back for multiple years.

The 2022 edition is now open for entries and will be held from Thursday 18 August to Sunday 21 August after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19.

6 stages over 4 days of racing. Yes, please!

Each stage has been carefully designed by mountain bikers, for mountain bikers, to take in the best trails of the region, including a number of new trails not previously raced for this years’ event.

Stages range from a 300m Hill Climb, to a 49km XC race and include plenty of variety that’ll blow rider’s minds – long, fast, straight-aways ridden at maximum speed, to technical switch back climbs that will test their skills. There’s rocky outcrops leading to twisting berm runs, and undulating trails that will see riders smiling (and sweating) from ear to ear. The 2022 stages capture all this and plenty more!

Easy race logistics allow competitors to roll to the start lines with no car or support crew needed. The event has the mantra of – race in the morning, sit back by the pool in the afternoon and share stories from the course.

Riders are guaranteed to be treated to a unique landscape in a desirable holiday destination that they may never have thought to go to.

Need more convincing? See what past-participants have to say;

Sarah B from the 2019 Redback - “Each time I talk about this event to friends it is with the biggest smile on my face, lots of great memories that will last a lifetime.” 

Mark B from the 2017 Redback - “This event for me was the ultimate adventure regardless of my lack of fitness, every stage was achievable. The event left me mesmerised that you could be only 5km out of town yet feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere!”

Past winner and well-known MTB’er Paul van de Ploeg – “What an event! It’s so unique to race the Alice Springs trails. I couldn’t recommend it more!”

Pamela H from the 2019 Redback – “The Redback trails are like no other and the landscape is so different to the rest of Australia. I found that every day my skills improved and I found the race much easier than I thought.” 

Rob M from the 2019 Redback – “The Redback was simply epic! A challenge and great fun at the same time… this is why we do it!”

Organisers Rapid Ascent say you’ll be a better rider after your Redback experience than before, and recommend entering early to secure your place.

For more information about The Redback 2022 and to enter online, please visit www.TheRedback.com.au.