The 2026 MTB National Championships at Mt Buller delivered everything you’d expect from the pinnacle of Australian downhill racing — fast tracks, huge crowds, and an electric atmosphere from start to finish.
Yarra Valley Cycles was proud to be right in the thick of it, supporting a massive crew of riders across multiple categories. From Juniors to Elite, and into the Masters ranks, the YVC community showed up in force — and the results spoke for themselves.
Race Results That Delivered
It was an incredible weekend for the YVC downhill crew, with standout performances across the board.
Leading the charge was Firthy, taking the win in his Masters category aboard his Norco — a result built on experience, precision, and outright speed.
Across the field, YVC riders stacked up:
- Multiple Top 10 finishes in Elite categories
- Strong representation in Junior fields, with riders pushing into podium contention
- Consistent performances across all age groups, showing the depth of the YVC race community
These results reflect not just talent, but the commitment, preparation, and support behind every rider heading into a national-level event.
Life in the Pits – Big Effort Behind the Scenes
Alongside the racing, the pit area told its own story.
Working alongside Garavelli Cycles, Michelin Tyres, and Shimano, the setup was nothing short of massive. Ash, Brodie, and the Garavelli crew built out a serious operation — delivering neutral support to a huge number of riders throughout the weekend.
It wasn’t just a presence — it was a full-scale effort:
- Dozens of tyres fitted, often late into the night
- Constant mechanical support keeping riders race-ready
- A steady flow of riders through the pits needing last-minute fixes
- Sleepless nights, powered by plenty of coffee and a serious commitment to the sport
This is what grassroots and elite MTB racing is all about — showing up, putting in the work, and supporting the broader riding community.
More Than Just Racing
One of the best parts of the National Champs is bringing everyone together.
It was unreal to see so many familiar faces — riders, mechanics, brands, and supporters — all in one place. The Mt Buller trails once again proved why they’re some of the best in the country, delivering a true test for every rider on course.
From practice runs to race day, the vibe across the mountain was something special.
Looking Ahead
The Nationals are always a highlight on the calendar, and 2026 was no exception.
For Yarra Valley Cycles, it reinforced what we’re all about:
- Supporting riders at every level
- Being part of the wider MTB community
- Showing up when it matters
Massive thanks to everyone involved — riders, supporters, and the teams behind the scenes who made the weekend happen.
We’ll be back.