The Willo returns to Canberra

We are excited to announce that The Willo Marathon will return to Kowen Forest in Canberra on Sunday, 28 February 2021.

The Willo is a one day event celebrating the life of mountain bike champion James Williamson, who died in March 2010 at the age of 26. James was a top-level XCO and XCM rider. He was passionate about the sport in every way, as well as being an Australian and World 24 hour champion.

The original home of the race is at Wingello State Forest in the Southern Highlands, James’ home track. Unfortunately the impacts of the 2019-20 summer bush fires remain severe and the trails still cannot be accessed. Therefore, for the second time, the race will be held at Canberra’s Kowen Forest and for the first time and as part of the Rocky Trail portfolio of events in the Capital, supported by Visit Canberra.

This is a marathon race unlike any other.

Over the past decade the Willo has established itself as one of the top mountain bike marathons on the Australian cycling racing calendars and it has become an annual reminder to all riders of the joys of mountain biking as well as the impact James had on the sport.

Every race participant will be instantly taken by the relaxed and friendly nature of the race, which in fact does on James and the camaraderie that mountain biking brings for all.

There are various distance classifications across adult and junior age groups – for many young athletes this race will continue to provide the opportunity to experience their first thrill of racing.

The Willo Junior Clinics for 2021 will be announced shortly.

The Willo will always be celebrating the memory of a great man and Rocky Trail Entertainment will make sure that the future of this inspiring event will be bright.

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