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