It’s hard to believe the Cannock Chase Winter Classic has been running for 14 years! Still one of the biggest XC races on the calendar, the 2027 edition will be bigger than ever, with short course races and kids’ skills training added on Saturday afternoon. This event has SOLD OUT for the past 3 years, so we don't expect any different for our 2027 event.

Our formula for success hasn’t changed:

• Simple, old-school racing on a course that’s fun, rideable, and challenging for all levels.

• Inclusive categories designed to keep racing competitive no matter your age or ability.

• A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that captures the true grassroots spirit of mountain biking.

The Winter Classic is traditionally the season opener for XC racers in the Midlands, and categories often sell out before Christmas as riders are eager to kick off their year.

Pricing

From 2027, You'll be pleased to know we've held prices from 2026... Yes, no prices increases for 2027 

Who the Event is For?

The Winter Classic has always been about grassroots mountain biking. From riders aged 3 to 70, whether you’re a daily shredder or brand new to the trails. The course is designed to be 100% rideable, with alternative “B” around technical features. If you can ride the red route at Cannock Chase, you’ll be comfortable here.

The Course (XCO - Sunday Racing)

Expect classic XC riding:

• Techy but flowing singletrack

• Short, sharp climbs

• Fire road blasts

• A few new sections created just for the event

The lap is around 5–6km, taking:

• > 15 mins for top riders

• > 25 mins for first-timers

The course is made up mainly of what we call “wild trails” — natural, twisting singletrack rather than the purpose-built trails you’d normally find at a trail centre.

There are no big jumps or drops, and if we include a more technical feature, there will always be an easier alternative line, making the course accessible to a wide range of riders.

Expect plenty of fast, flowing singletrack, natural features and changing surfaces, mixed with wider hard-packed stone tracks where you can catch your breath, make a move or find a passing opportunity.

It’s fun, varied and challenging without being intimidating — exactly what a Cannock Classic should be.

What is Short Course MTB Racing? (XCC - Saturday Racing)

Short course MTB racing (sometimes called Short Track XC or XCC) is a fast, action-packed version of cross-country mountain bike racing. Unlike traditional XC races that take place over longer laps, short course events are:

• Shorter laps – usually 500m to 2km long, designed to be completed in just a few minutes.

• Shorter race times – typically 20 minutes of racing, rather than hours.

• High intensity – with constant accelerations, sharp corners, punchy climbs, and technical features.

• Spectator-friendly – the compact lap means riders pass the arena multiple times, so fans see more of the action.

• Tactical racing – with lots of drafting, attacking, and sprint finishes, similar to criterium racing on the road.

Venue & Facilities

Tackeroo Campsite, Penkridge Bank Road, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2UA

• Camping £5 per night - Available Friday & Saturday night (Sorry no showers)

• Drinking water taps

• Toilets (We tried the Posh Loos but they failed so it's back to the norm sorry)

• Free hard-standing parking (100m from start)

• Onsite catering, trade stands & Run & Ride store essentials

• Great viewpoints for spectators (riders pass the arena multiple times per lap)

Camping notes:

• No electrical hook-ups

• No open fires / fire pits

• Site must be vacated by Sunday 6pm

Categories

Our categories are designed for fair, competitive racing. Please note that lapped riders will finish at the end of their lap once the winner has finished. Therefore please please enter the correct category for you. 

Adult Categories (16yrs Plus)

• Beginners – 2 laps (approx. 3 miles each). For first-timers, casual riders, or those who just want to give it a go. Not for competitive/Strava hunters.

• Fun – 3 laps. The most popular category. Ideal if you’ve raced before but don’t train seriously. Please don't underestimate how quick some of these riders can be

• Enthusiast – 4 laps. For regular racers, fit riders, and juniors. Not for Elite/Expert level riders.

• Elite / Expert – 5 laps. Top-level racing for the fastest riders. Elite and Expert riders plus fast Juniors and Vets

• eBikes – 3 laps. One open category. Bikes must comply with UK regulations (restricted to 15.6mph). Spot checks will be carried out.

• Retro Bikes - 3 laps. Bikes must be pre-1997. Prize for “Best in Class” bike.

• Singlespeed – 3 laps. 

Children (Under 12) & Youth (13 to 15) Categories

Our children’s racing is based on ability as well as age, with the main focus firmly on participation, enjoyment and building confidence, rather than simply who crosses the line first.

We’ve previously received feedback asking for the children’s races to be longer and more technical. However, please remember that this is not a Regional or National-level race. Our courses are designed to be suitable and enjoyable for riders of all abilities, rather than being aimed specifically at the fastest or most experienced racers.

Race durations are also based around riders in the middle and towards the rear of the field, rather than the finishing time of the winner.

• Youth – Ages 13–15, boys & girls
  Riders complete full laps of the adult race course.
• Kids Racers
  Around 25 minutes of racing on a shortened course featuring some light technical sections. Ideal for confident young riders with some racing or MTB experience.
• Kids Fun Times
  Around 15 minutes of racing on a shortened course with easy technical sections. This is traditionally our most popular children’s category and is ideal for riders looking for a fun and friendly race experience.
• Kids Newbies
  Around 10 minutes of racing within the event arena. Perfect for balance bikes, first-time racers and complete beginners.

The aim across all of our children’s categories is simple: get kids riding, having fun and wanting to come back for more.

Race Schedule (Saturday)

Open Course Practise - 1pm to 3pm

Short Course U16's - 3pm

Short Course 17' And Over - 3.45pm

Race Schedule (Sunday)

• 09:00 – E-Bikes (M/F)

• 09:01 – Youth (M/F)

• 09:02 – Beginners (M/F)

• 10:30 – Fun (M/F)

• 12:00 – Kids Newbies

• 12:30 – Kids Fun Times

• 13:00 – Kids Racers

• 14:00 – Elite / Expert Men, Enthusiast M/W

• 14:01 –  Retro Bike / Single Speed M/W

Lap numbers may be adjusted depending on conditions.

Race Numbers & Entry

• Race numbers will not be sent in advance. Collect yours on the day.

• Sign-on opens at 8:00am. Please arrive at least 1 hour before your race.

• Under-18s must be signed on by a parent/guardian.

• On-the-day entry may be available (+£5 surcharge / +£2.50 for U8/U10/U13), but categories often sell out – pre-entry is strongly advised.

Other Information

• Race timing – all events electronically timed, with results live online.

• Photography – professional photos available free to download.

• Spectating – close to the arena, plenty of chances to cheer riders on. Please keep dogs on leads and avoid crossing taped-off areas.

Rules

• Helmets must be worn.

• Bikes must be safe and in good condition.

• Open bar ends must be plugged.

• Respect fellow riders and organisers. Abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.

• This is public land. Please be courteous to other trail users.

• When overtaking, give clear verbal warning and pass safely. Riders endangering others will be disqualified.

Cancellations & Changes

• Cancellations can be processed up to 20th Feb.

• You may also update your details, change category, transfer your entry to another rider, or request a refund.

• Transfers carry a £1.00 surcharge and must be completed no later than 2 weeks before the event.

• Refunds are subject to a £5.00 admin fee.

• After 20th Feb deadline, unfortunately no changes or refunds can be made.