GRAFTON TO INVERELL CYCLE CLASSIC

Location: NSW
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026

The Squadron Energy Grafton to Inverell Cycle Classic stands as Australia's ultimate test of cycling endurance. Now in its 64th year, this iconic race combines brutal climbs, challenging distances, and rich cycling heritage into an unforgettable autumn cycling festival. From the elite open race to the more accessible Gran Fondo, the event offers multiple ways to be part of this legendary cycling experience.

Date: Saturday & Sunday, March 14-15, 2026

Location: Grafton to Inverell, NSW

Event Type: Multi-category road cycling classic

Distance Options:

Grafton to Inverell Open: 228km (3,382m elevation)

  • The complete classic challenge
  • Team and individual categories available
  • Open and 50+ age groups

Mt Mitchell to Inverell Gran Fondo: 110km

  • Perfect introduction to the event
  • Experience the iconic final sectors
  • Accessible challenge for recreational riders

Lake Inverell Circuit Races: 30-40km

  • Sunday racing action
  • Multiple categories
  • Purpose-built cycling facility

Grafton to Inverell Open:

  • Early Bird: $225 (until January 19, 2025)
  • Standard: $250 (until March 4, 2025)
  • Team entries available (3-5 riders)

Mt Mitchell Gran Fondo:

  • Early Bird: $135 (until January 19, 2025)
  • Standard: $150 (until March 4, 2025)

Registration Includes:

  • Event support
  • Feed station access
  • Finish line festivities
  • Participant medal
  • Event insurance

Entry Requirements:

  • AusCycling Race All Discipline license or One Day Event License
  • Minimum age 19 for full classic (U19 options available)
  • Appropriate level of cycling fitness
  • Road-worthy bike
  • Mandatory safety equipment

The legendary route takes riders through the heart of northern New South Wales, showcasing both the region's beauty and its most formidable cycling challenges. The full classic features the notorious Gibraltar Range climb, while the Gran Fondo offers riders the iconic final sectors from Mt Mitchell to the historic town of Inverell.

Grafton to Inverell Open (228km)

  • Epic Gibraltar Range ascent
  • Rolling hills through Glen Innes
  • Technical descents
  • Testing final sectors into Inverell

Mt Mitchell to Inverell Gran Fondo (110km)

  • Challenging but achievable distance
  • Spectacular New England scenery
  • Shared finish line experience
  • Perfect introduction to the classic

Event Categories

Open Race Categories:

  • Men Open
  • Women Open
  • Mixed Open
  • Men 50+ years
  • Women 50+ years
  • Mixed 50+ years (minimum 1 female rider)

Gran Fondo Categories:

  • Open Men
  • Open Women
  • Age group classifications
  • Professional medical support
  • Multiple feed stations
  • Technical assistance
  • Finish line recovery zone
  • Bag transport service
  • Course signage and marshals
  • Support vehicle coordination

  • Event Organiser: ProVelo Super League
  • Email: info@graftontoinverell.com.au
  • Website: graftontoinverell.com.au
  • Social Media: @GraftonInverellClassic

From Sydney:

  • 6-hour drive via Pacific Highway (M1) and New England Highway (A15)
  • Regular REX flights to Armidale (2 hours from Grafton)
  • Qantas and Virgin flights to Coffs Harbour (2.5 hours from Grafton)

From Brisbane:

  • 7-hour drive via Pacific Highway (M1)
  • Daily flights to Ballina (3 hours from Grafton)
  • Coach services to Grafton via NSW TrainLink

From Regional Centers:

  • Tamworth: 4.5 hours via Thunderbolts Way
  • Port Macquarie: 4 hours via Pacific Highway
  • Armidale: 2.5 hours to Inverell

Make the most of your visit by exploring this historic region. The area offers everything from natural wonders to cultural experiences, perfect for both pre-race preparation and post-event recovery.

Glen Innes Region:

Weekend Extensions:

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