The Otway Odyssey & Great Otway Gravel Grind Turn 20 To Kick Start The 2026 Gran Fondo World Tour Calendar

September 3, 2025

Australia’s Iconic Off-Road Weekend Joins Global Cycling Heritage.

Forrest, Victoria (September 3, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – 28 February & 1 March 2026 will mark a historic milestone in Australian cycling: the 20th Anniversary Edition of the Otway Odyssey, one of the most legendary and respected off-road events in the world.

Since its inception in 2006, the Odyssey has built a reputation as “brutal… but unforgettable”, attracting thousands of mountain bikers and gravel riders from across Australia and beyond. In 2026, the celebrations will reach new heights, with organisers Rapid Ascent pulling out all the stops to deliver the biggest, most dynamic edition yet.

Adding to its prestige, the Great Otway Gravel Grind (GOGG) – introduced in 2017 – has been part of the Gran Fondo World Tour® since 2023, showcasing Australia’s breathtaking landscapes to a global community of cycling enthusiasts. Together, the Odyssey and GOGG now stand as a true double-header weekend of MTB and Gravel racing, endorsed internationally as a GFWT feature event, with the support of local partners.

NEW FOR 2026 – THE BIG 2.0 CELEBRATION

To celebrate two decades, the 2026 Otway Odyssey will include:

– New format: MTB and Gravel on equal footing all weekend – ride one, or both.

– New courses:

– 100km MTB with more flow, less 4WD grind.

– 106km world-class GOGG gravel course.

– New 75km MTB & revamped 50km MTB.

– New “Double Header Classifications: Gravel God/Goddess (106km + 49km) and Titans of Trails (MTB).

– Family & inclusivity focus: Kids races, Groms fun ride, the much-loved Otway Angels women’s start.

– **Celebrations on & off course**: Retro bike parade, awards, entertainment, the Avenue of Achievement honouring iconic riders, plus a buzzing event village.

A PILLAR OF AUSTRALIAN CYCLING 

The Odyssey is firmly established as a “must do” Australian race, with elite riders battling for glory while thousands of amateurs test their limits on world-class trails through the Otway Ranges and Great Otway National Park. Last year attracted 1,800 riders, and organisers expect over 2,000 cyclists in 2026.

GLOBAL CONNECTION: GRAN FONDO WORLD TOUR® 

The inclusion of the Great Otway Gravel Grind within the Gran Fondo World Tour® calendar since 2023 reinforces its international significance. The collaboration highlights Australia’s booming cycling culture while connecting local riders to a worldwide community of endurance and adventure cyclists.

SAVE THE DATE: 20th Edition – The Otway Odyssey & GOGG**
Forrest, Victoria – Otway Ranges  28 February – 1 March 2026

More information at: www.granfondoworldtour.com and *otwayodyssey.rapidascent.com.au

Entries for the BIG 2.0 Edition open Monday, 8 September 2025.