Expressions of Interest open for 2026 Couch to Cape

Cape to Cape MTB owner EventMatrix Pty Ltd have opened expressions of interest for the 2026 Couch to Cape program.

Introduced in 2025, the program supported go-karter Emily Hayes, who hadn’t ridden a bike over more than a decade to finishing on the podium in her age category.

For 2026 the program will expand to three participants to support more new participants from a cycling or fitness background looking to enjoy the ultimate mountain bike experience.

Held over four days, Cape to Cape MTB covers approximately 200km, with each days riding around 50 kilometres. The courses are carefully selected to be achievable for anyone with a basic level of fitness.

As part of the program, selected participants will be provided;
Giant Stance Mountain Bike including bike set up by Giant Store
PURE Sports Nutrition Pack
Pedal Mafia Cycling Kit Pack
Cape to Cape MTB Merch Pack
Free entry to the 2026 Cape to Cape MTB
Training and support guidance

Race Director Bill Hayes said, "Since taking ownership of Cape to Cape MTB we have been committed to making the event accessible to everyone and helping people new to mountain biking or recreational riders to ride and enjoy Australia's most popular mountain bike stage race.

"The Couch to Cape program provides support from equipment and training guidance to help riders prepare to ride a four-day mountain bike race."

"We have expanded the program to three participants in 2026 and look forward to hearing from participants looking to be involved and supporting them to an enjoyable week in the picturesque South West region of Western Australia."

"We extend out thanks to our partners Giant Australia, Pedal Mafia and PURE Sports Nutrition for supporting the program and helping to grow mountain biking across WA and Australia."

Interested participants should email hello@capetocapemtb.com expressing their interest and outlining why they would like to be part of the program, their part cycling/sport experience and what they think they will get from participating.

Participation in the Couch to Cape program is open to Australian Residents. Participants will be selected by the Event and Race Directors based on their suitability and capability to complete the event.