It’s hard to believe the Cannock Chase Winter Classic has been running for 13 years! Still one of the biggest XC races on the calendar, the 2026 edition will be bigger than ever, with short course races and kids’ skills training added on Saturday afternoon.

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 & Forestry England Fees Update

From 2026, we’ve had to introduce a small price increase across all categories. Forestry England’s revised pricing structure means our land-use costs are now almost four times higher. We’ve absorbed much of the increase, but entry fees have risen slightly to keep the event sustainable.

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

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

What is Short Course MTB 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 (Friday & Saturday night, please take your rubbish home)

• 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, so please enter the appropriate level.

Adult Categories

• 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.

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

• Elite / Expert – 5 laps. Top-level racing for the fastest riders.

• 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 & Youth Categories

Our kids’ racing is ability-based, not just age-based.

• Youth (13–16, boys & girls) – full laps of the adult course.

• Kids Racers – 25 min race on a shortened course, with light technical features.

• Kids Fun Times – 15 min race on a shortened course, with easy technical sections. Most popular category.

• Kids Newbies – 10 min race around the arena. Perfect for balance bikers and complete beginners.

(Times are approximate – faster riders will finish under, while newer riders may take longer.)

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.