The Cannock Chase Winter Classic returns for its 15th year on February 27, 2027, promising an exhilarating blend of competition and community spirit. This long-standing mountain biking tradition is not just about racing; it's a celebration of the sport in all its grassroots glory. ### The Event Experience The Cannock Chase Winter Classic has earned its reputation as one of the most beloved XC races on the calendar. For 2027, organizers have expanded offerings to include short course MTB events and kids’ skills training sessions on Saturday afternoon, ensuring there’s something for riders of all ages and abilities. ### Course Details The race takes place at Tackeroo Campsite in Penkridge Bank Road near Rugeley. The XC racing route is a mix of natural singletrack trails that wind through the scenic Cannock Chase area. Expect techy but flowing terrain, short sharp climbs, and fire road blasts. Each lap covers approximately 5-6km, taking around 15 minutes for elite riders and about 25 minutes for beginners. The course features new sections designed specifically for this event, ensuring a fresh challenge every year while maintaining its rideable nature. With alternative routes available at technical points, the trail is accessible to all levels of experience, from casual riders to seasoned racers. ### Short Course MTB Racing (XCC) Saturday’s short course races offer an intense and spectator-friendly format with lap lengths ranging between 500m and 2km. These shorter laps mean high-intensity racing that lasts around 20 minutes, filled with constant accelerations, sharp corners, and technical features. ### Event Atmosphere The Cannock Chase Winter Classic is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and inclusive spirit. Whether you're a seasoned racer or just starting out, the event offers categories tailored to every level of ability. From beginners to elite riders, there’s something that suits everyone's pace and style. With on-site catering, trade stands, and essential run-and-ride store items available, participants can enjoy all-day access to refreshments and gear. Spectators are treated to great viewpoints where they can cheer on racers as they pass multiple times per lap. ### Venue & Facilities Tackeroo Campsite provides camping options for those looking to make a weekend of it. Camping is £5 per night, with drinking water taps and toilets available (though note that showers were not provided in previous years). Free hard-standing parking is also offered just 100m from the start line. ### Categories & Pricing Entry fees remain unchanged from last year, making this an affordable event for all. The race features a range of categories designed to ensure fair competition across different age groups and skill levels: - Beginners: A two-lap category ideal for first-timers or casual riders. - Fun Category: Three laps suitable for those with some racing experience but who don’t train seriously. - Enthusiast Level: Four laps for regular racers, fit riders, and juniors. - Elite/Expert: Five laps reserved for the fastest competitors. Additional categories include eBikes (three laps), Retro Bikes (pre-1997 bikes with prizes awarded to Best in Class), and Singlespeed races. Children's events are geared towards participation and enjoyment, offering shortened courses that cater to various levels of experience. ### Race Schedule Saturday: - 1pm - 3pm Open Course Practice - 3pm Short Course U16s - 3:45pm Short Course for riders aged 17+ Sunday: - 09:00 E-Bikes (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/F) ### Entry & Timing Race numbers are collected on the day at sign-on which opens by 8am. Under-18s must be signed in by a parent or guardian. The event is electronically timed, with live results available online for quick access to your performance details. With its rich history and continued commitment to inclusivity, the Cannock Chase Winter Classic remains a cornerstone of XC racing in the Midlands. Don’t miss out on this thrilling weekend of mountain biking action!
Races Offered
Beginners (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Beginners (Sunday)
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147 days remaining
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£20.00
Elite / Expert (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Elite / Expert (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£27.50
Enthusiast (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Enthusiast (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£27.50
Fun (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Fun (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£25.00
Kids - Beginners (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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1K
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147 days remaining
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£10.00
Kids - Fun Times (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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1K
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£10.00
Kids - Racers (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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1K
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£10.00
Retro (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Retro (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£25.00
Short Course 16 And Under (Saturday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Short Course 16 And Under (Saturday)
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147 days remaining
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£12.50
Short Course 17+ (Saturday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Short Course 17+ (Saturday)
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147 days remaining
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£12.50
Singlespeed (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Singlespeed (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£25.00
Youth (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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Youth (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£17.50
eBike (Sunday)
Feb 27, 2027
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eBike (Sunday)
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Others
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147 days remaining
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£25.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for February in Penkridge Bank.
thermostatTemperature
3.2° / 8.6°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-1.3° / 4.3°
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Avg sunshine hours
4h 3m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.1 cm
air
Avg wind speed
16.2 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.1)
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Humidity
86.4%
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Sunrise
08:24
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Sunset
18:18
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