Add to Your Calendar
Select your distance to save this race to your personal race calendar.
Race Schedule
| Distance | Date | Start Time |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Course 15-25km mountain bike / 7-12km trail run / 2-4km kayak | Sat, 25 Jul | 08:00 |
| Novice Course 5-15km mountain bike / 3-5km trail run / 1-2km kayak | Sat, 25 Jul | 09:00 |
| Kids Course 1-2km trail run / 3-5km mountain bike | Sat, 25 Jul | TBA |
Event Details
About This Event
Team adventure race with mountain biking, trail running and kayaking. Classic, Novice and Kids courses through pine forest trails. Stunning views from Wild Horse Mountain. Kayaks provided.
Course Description
The Max Adventure Race Sunshine Coast at Wild Horse Mountain offers three course options for teams of two, combining mountain biking, trail running, and kayaking with navigation challenges. The Classic course navigates through a maze of pine forest trails with tricky navigation, featuring 15-25km of mountain biking, 7-12km of trail running, and 2-4km of kayaking on the upper Pumistone Passage along Hussey Creek. Despite being the flattest course in the series, teams must stay alert through overgrown trails and countless path options. The Novice course provides a beginner-friendly option with shorter distances, whilst the Kids course focuses on mountain biking and trail running only. Spectacular views from Wild Horse Mountain, the most easterly of the Glasshouse Mountains, reward participants, with possible glimpses of wild brumbies.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Wild Horse Mountain is conveniently located just off the Bruce Highway, making it easily accessible from Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast regions. The event centre location provides straightforward access for both local and travelling participants. Arrive by 6:30am if competing in the Classic course to allow time for bike drop. Registration opens from 7:00am for Classic and 8:00am for Novice courses. Specific parking details and bike drop locations are provided in the event program released two weeks before race day on the official website.
Weather & What to Pack
Late July on the Sunshine Coast typically offers mild winter conditions with daytime temperatures ranging from 12-21°C. Expect clear, sunny mornings with low humidity, though occasional cloud cover is possible. Early morning starts mean cooler temperatures at the 8:00am race start, warming up by midday. The sheltered pine forest trails provide some protection from wind and sun. Pack layers for the morning chill, sun protection for exposed sections, and bring adequate hydration despite the cooler temperatures. The flat terrain and moderate winter weather make for ideal racing conditions without extreme heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own kayak and mountain bike?
Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided for all participants. You'll need your own mountain bike in good working order, though mountain bike hire can be added when registering (limited availability - book early). Any mountain bike suitable for fire trails and some single track will work.
Can I race solo or do I need a team?
Adventure racing is a team sport - all courses require teams of two who must stay together throughout the event. You cannot race individually or as a relay. Teams compete in Male, Female, or Mixed categories. The minimum age is 8 years when racing with an adult, or 14 years for two teenagers racing together.
What navigation experience do I need?
The Classic course requires some navigation experience as the maze of pine forest trails can be tricky with overgrown paths. The Novice course is designed for beginners and includes a 'Tips and Tricks' session before the race that reveals course secrets and checkpoint locations. Race maps are provided for all teams.
What should I bring on race day?
Bring your mountain bike with a basic repair kit (and know how to use it), appropriate clothing for trail running and biking, water bottles, nutrition, and a timing chip (provided but must be returned). Race bibs and timing chips are supplied but replacement fees apply if not returned. Check the event program released two weeks before for the complete gear checklist.
How long does each course take to complete?
Classic course teams typically take 4-6 hours to complete, Novice teams finish in 2-4 hours, and Kids teams complete their course in 45-90 minutes. First finishers are expected around 11:00am, with presentation at 1:00pm and final finishers expected by 3:00pm.
Last updated: 27 December 2025
