Summer Sprints 2026 – Bigger, Better, Faster!

Rats Event Image Sprints

Get ready — the 2026 Summer Sprints are back, bigger and better than ever, with brand new race tracks to challenge and excite riders of all levels!

Fun // Local // Affordable

Whether you’re chasing personal bests, testing your fitness, or just in it for a morning of adrenaline and fun, the Summer Sprints have a category for everyone. 

Free Entry for Under 19s – Powered by Ride Mechanic

We are excited to announce that Brisbane based Ride Mechanic is supporting the next generation of racers by covering the entry cost of all under 19’s. Check out their range of Aussie-made bike lubricants, cleaning products and more. Under 19’s use “RIDEMECH” during registration for free entry.

RideMechanicLogo
Why You Should Race

  • New Racers: A supportive, welcoming environment where you can experience the thrill of racing for the first time. C and D grades race in their own dedicated sessions, away from the high-speed elite riders.

  • Regular Competitors: Sharpen your skills, practice your race starts, and push your limits ahead of longer events later in the year. 

  • Senior riders: 5 new categories this year | Participation | Single Speed | Enduro Bike | Masters A Grade – 40+ age group | Masters B Grade – 40+ age group.
  • Women’s Only Racing: Women in B and C grades enjoy their own exclusive race start, providing a clear track and a supportive atmosphere.

  • Junior Racers: three separate kids-only races, kept completely distinct from the senior categories to ensure maximum safety and fun.

  • For Everyone: Great tracks, friendly competition, and the chance to meet other passionate riders in a fun, community-focused atmosphere.

No matter your experience, Summer Sprints is all about fun, fitness, and friendly competitionRace your mates and find out who really is faster!

Important Info

  • Entry is available only via the links below.

  • A current AusCycling race membership is required to participate.

  • Not a member yet? Now is the perfect time to join the club and be part of the RATS community!

Don’t miss out — we can’t wait to see you racing in 2026!

Round 1

• Sunday,  18 January 2026
• Underwood Park
• ResultsYouTubeSummer Sprints Round 1 Underwood Park 2026See highlights and race footage – thanks Simon

Round 2

• Sunday,  8 February 2026
• Eastern Escarpment (Mt Cotton – Gate 2, Schoeck Road)
Results

Round 3

• Sunday,  15 March 2026
• Daisy Hill (Don and Christine Burnett Conservation Area – Ford Road)
• Enter Round 3 Now

SCHEDULE
Start TimeRace Category
6:00amRegistration Opens
7:00amRace 1: D Grade Girls & Boys
7:20amRace 2: C Grade Girls & Boys
7:45amRace 3: A Grade Boys, B Grade Boys
8:30amRace 4: B Grade Female, B Grade Masters Female, C Grade Female, A Grade Girls, B Grade Girls, E-Bike Female, Enduro Bike Female
9:15amRace 5: C Grade Male, D Grade Male, Enduro Bike Male
10:10amRace 6: A Grade Male, B Grade Male, A Grade Masters Male, B Grade Masters Male, A Grade Female, A Grade Masters Female, E-Bike Male
11:15amRace 7: Participation Male & Female
(If numbers are low, Participation Male merges with Race 5, Participation Female merges with Race 4)
11:45amPack Up – please consider helping to collect bunting
RIDER BRIEFING

Race Numbers

Race Numbers will be allocated at registration, please pick them up at least 30 minutes before your race. To ensure we can continue to provide low cost racing, please return the number plate after your race.

Please ensure your number plate is securely attached to the front of your bike so that your number can clearly be seen by timing staff. Make sure that the number plate remains vertical.

Race Format

There will be a mass start for all riders in your category. Faster riders should move to the front of the pack with social riders to the back. Multiple categories will start at the same time.

There is a time limit for each category, after that time expires you won’t be able to commence a new lap.

Course Markings

The course will be marked using standard signs and bunting as appropriate.

Equipment Requirements

Your bicycle needs to be suitably equipped for racing. 

You also are required to wear a helmet compliant with the Australian or equivalent international standard. We also recommend the use of protective equipment, including but not limited to full finger gloves and eyewear.

Feed Zone and Outside Assistance

There will be a designated feed zone, generally located just past the Start/Finish line on each lap. You may collect or exchange drinks/food.

Marshals and Course Safety

There will be marshals stationed throughout the course. If you are the first to encounter an injured rider, you are required to stop and render assistance and send the next rider onwards to advise the marshal. Riders providing assistance can have their times adjusted so that they are not disadvantaged.

If you encounter a slower rider, shout ‘Track Left’ or ‘Track Right’ to indicate the side you wish to pass, and wait for them to give way.  Most inexperienced riders will instinctively move to the left. Note that you need only give way when you feel it is safe to do so. If stopping, call ‘Stopping’.

The marshals are there for your safety and you are required to follow their instructions, particularly in the case of an emergency.

Please advise timing staff if you have withdrawn from the race.

Spectators are to watch for and yield to oncoming riders before crossing the track. Spectators are expected to use the designated crossing areas on the oval.

For the safety of riders, no pets are allowed.

Track Practice

Underwood Park is open to the public, so the race track can be ridden at any time.

Riders not racing are not to impede riders who are racing by riding the race track. In particular, riders not riding are not to approach or cross the finish line. In general terms, that means keep off the starting area and well away from riders who are racing. Those who transgress are liable to be disqualified.

Food and Drink

Food and drink will be available for purchase. 

COURSES

Summer Sprints Underwood Park Full

Summer Sprints Underwood Park Junior

Summer Sprints Eastern Escarpment Full

Summer Sprints Eastern Escarpment Junior

Summer Sprints Daisy Hill Full

Summer Sprints Daisy Hill JuniorC

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteers Needed

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on volunteers to make our events possible.

If you’re not racing but want to help, please visit our Volunteers Sign-Up Page for more information.

Your support is greatly appreciated! As a thank-you, volunteers receive free entry to one of the Summer Sprints, which can be used for yourself, your child, or your partner.

Need more info or have a question?

Email: Racedirector@ratscc.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/RATSCyclingClub/
Phone: Race Director – Keegan Barns – 0401 502 343