Weekend Warriors, Volunteer Legends & Monday Night Rollouts

• Posted on 6 April 2025
• By Matt King
• 0

The 2025 racing season is off and flying in the Top End

What a weekend to be a cyclist (or triathlete, or trail runner… or all three!) in the NT. After months of training in the heat, the Darwin racing calendar kicked off with a bang—and the local community came out in full force to make it one to remember.

We had a jam-packed schedule featuring the first Saturday road race of the year with Darwin Cycling Club, a lung-busting 2-hour MTB smash with DORC, and the final race of the super fun Super Sprint Tri Series hosted by Darwin Triathlon Club on Sunday morning.

And if that wasn’t enough, the weather threw in a little extra flavor too—a hint of the Dry Season in the air, but the wet season humidity still clinging on, especially during the MTB race with a little rain threatening on Saturday arvo.

Big efforts all around

• 15 riders took on the Pave & Pine Challenges—a weekend combo of road and trail that’s no joke in the Top End heat.

• 3 absolute machines went next-level, lining up at all three events—Road, MTB, and Tri—proving just how tough our local athletes really are.

Blue Cycles Team Member Standout shoutouts

Let’s give some extra love to the all-stars who showed up and left it all out there:

• Matt – Took on all three events and smashed it. Total beast.

• Glen – Doubled up with Road and MTB and looked smooth doing it.

• Kia – Crushed it out on the trails.

• Rach – Stepped up for both Road and Tri. Strong, steady, and always smiling.

It’s weekends like this that show how tight and talented the Darwin endurance scene really is. Whether you were chasing the podium or just chasing your mates, it was all about pushing limits, supporting each other, and enjoying the ride.

The real MVPs: our volunteers

Events like these don’t just happen. Behind every start line, finish chute, and aid station are the volunteers who give up their time to make racing possible. From setting up early in the heat to packing down at the end of the day, their efforts are the foundation of the entire weekend.

To show our appreciation, Blue Cycles is giving every volunteer a $20 in-store voucher to say thank you. If you helped out over the weekend, just check in with your club, and once we’ve got your name, you can swing by the shop anytime in April to pick it up and use it. Whether it’s a new tube, a fresh pair of socks, or a coffee on the go—it’s a small way to say thanks for the big difference you make.

What’s next on the calendar?

No time to cool off—there’s a packed schedule ahead and something for everyone:

• This weekend: Head down to Katherine for a killer double-header with Katherine Multisports Club—a 2-hour MTB race Saturday and a trail run Sunday.

• May 10: The iconic Kakadu Triathlon—a bucket-list Territory event.

• May 15: Darwin Cycling Club Sunset Criterium—fast racing and golden light.

• May 17: Darwin Tri Club’s Kerran Mudgway Club Champs—their biggest race of the season!

Plenty of events, plenty of challenges, and always plenty of good times with the NT crew.

Wrap it up with a roll (and pizza)

To bring the weekend full circle, we’re finishing with the classic Monday Night Recovery Ride, rolling out from Blue Cycles at 5:30 PM. It’s chill, social, and exactly what your legs need—plus there’s free pizza and cold beers waiting at the finish.

Whether you raced hard, helped out, or just want to cruise and chat—everyone’s welcome.

Darwin Bike Shop – Why Blue Cycles leads the pack

When people search for the best Darwin Bike Shop, they’re really looking for quality, service, and experience—and that’s exactly what we offer at Blue Cycles.

We don’t just sell bikes—we ride them, race them, and live the lifestyle every day. Whether you’re tackling a race, commuting to work, or hitting the trails for fun, we’re here to keep your wheels turning.

Our workshop is second to none, with Darwin’s only fully qualified bike mechanic. No guesswork, no shortcuts—just genuine, professional service from people who care. From entry-level builds to high-end race machines, we treat every bike like it’s our own.

So if you’re after advice, gear, upgrades, or a solid tune-up, pop in and see why Blue Cycles is the top-rated Darwin Bike Shop. We’re here to support every rider, every level, every day.

See you out there.

Whether it’s at the next race, on the recovery ride tonight, or just popping by the shop for a yarn, we’re always stoked to see you.

Ride safe, ride strong, and keep the stoke high.

—The Blue Cycles Team