Riders from across Australia and around the world are set to descend on the South-West this week for the return of the popular Cape to Cape mountain biking event.

More than 1,000 riders will take part in the four-day event, with Cape to Cape returning to the calendar for its 14th edition, with riders from outside of Western Australia returning for the first time since 2019. 

Since the inaugural event in 2008, Cape to Cape has grown to become Australasia’s largest and longest running multi-stage endurance mountain bike race, with the 2022 edition to be held from 20-23 October. 

Geoff Meyer, Managing Director of Oceania for The IRONMAN Group, organisers of Cape to Cape, said that the team was looking forward to welcoming riders back to the South-West.

“We can’t wait to have riders back on the trails of the South-West later this week for what is shaping up to be a great Cape to Cape,” said Meyer. “It’s great to be able to welcome back riders from across Australia and around the world for the first time 2019.

“The support from our riders has been incredible, with more than 1,000 set to hit the start line at Cape Leeuwin on Thursday,” he said. “In four days they’ll cover almost 170km of riding, with the event providing a great opportunity to experience some of the best riding in the country, along with plenty of opportunities to spend time with mates before and after racing each day.”

City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley welcomed riders back to Cape to Cape this week.

“City of Busselton is once again thrilled to be involved in this iconic event and welcomes the fact that international athletes will be able to compete again after a two-year absence,” he said. “Let’s hope participants find time to unwind after the event and explore some of the fabulous settings the greater Busselton region can offer.”

Shire of Augusta Margaret River President Paula Cristoffanini said the Shire was a proud sponsor of the event and welcomed riders and spectators from near and far to the region. 

“It’s really exciting to see to the region bustling with activity,” she said. “I encourage all riders, whether they’re locals or visitors, to enjoy the pristine environment as they race, climb and challenge themselves. Good luck and we’ll see you at the finish line.”

Racing commences on Thursday 20 October, with one of the most spectacular start lines in Australian mountain biking at Cape Leeuwin, with riders taking on an opening stage of 39km, including 949m of climbing, starting and finishing at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

Stage two sees the event move north to Boranup, with the 54km stage featuring plenty of single track sections, along with a start and finish line at Mr Barval Fine Wines.

The penultimate stage of Cape to Cape takes riders to Margaret River, with the 42km stage again based out of Limeburners, the perfect location for post ride chats and beverages.

The final stage of the 2022 Cape to Cape will see riders head to Cape Naturaliste, with a 34km blast taking in the best the region has to offer, before crossing the finish line at Wise Winery.

For more on Cape to Cape visit https://capetocapemtb.com/