30km Course Information

We all know that women can achieve anything and are as tough as any bloke right…?! Right.

But if you are a bit unsure of yourself and are new to this cycling thing then here are a few recommendations for which of the Otway Odyssey races are best for you. There’s definitely a goal here for you, after all, most of the time it’s the journey to get to the start line as much as the race experience itself!

INDEX:

30KM MTB COURSE DESCRIPTION

Written by women, for women!

  • Sunday1 March, 2026
  • Start/Finish Forrest Football Oval, Forrest Victoria
  • 10:50am female only START (the mixed/main start at 10:45am)
    • NOTE, capable female riders who wish to start in the main 30km group can do so. This women’s only start is for those who may be less sure, and happier starting with just females.
  • Length and elevation: 30km with 585m ascent

COURSE MAP

The 30km MTB is a mid-distance course that’s designed for mountain bike newcomers, riders who are new to mountain biking and/or racing, and capable junior riders. It is a great course that is both challenging and achievable for all types of riders who don’t want to do the longers races.

With the female-only start (5mins after the main field), and our Odyssey Angels on hand for any last minute bike maintenance or advice and support on course, this ride is sure to provide you with a great riding environment with like-minded women.

With the course held on Sunday’s program, course congestion is significantly eased from other races. The 30km course also has more KM’s in Yaugher Forest this year; and less climbing overall.

COURSE SEGMENTS

  • 12km leg 1: Uphill to warm you up 

Riding kicks off with a 4km climb on a dirt road to warm the body up and then it’s onto the popular Red Carpet* for a flying descent down a trail that’s full of YAHOO corners and YIPPEE rollers that’ll put a smile on every dial. Loop though the new flow trails and you’re nearly half way done.

*The Red Carpet is the name given to a popular 4km flowing downhill section of track, giving you the chance to roll back down the hill and experience the thrill of mountain biking in a breathtaking setting. It’s generally a gradual descent, with no steep drops.   Take your time and enjoy the serenity whilst practicing those mountain biking skills you’re so eager to try out, or hit the gas and fly along for an exhilarating rush.

Video of what you can expect on the Red Carpet with Kate Maffett – CLICK HERE >>

Finish Red Carpet and you’ve got another short climb on a dirt road and then its downhill and into the Footy Ground at the 12km point where you can see your family and friends for some high-fives, refuel, before heading into the second leg of the ride in an area known as Yaugher Forest.

  • 18km Leg 2: let it flow 

Once leaving the Footy Ground, its into the Yaugher Forest – an extensive network of MTB single track with your 30km route will be very clearly marked so you know where to go. Keep an eye out for signs that say “30km riders this way”. Your loop offers a mix of undulating trails, with the odd steeper section (yes, it’s ok to walk your bike) followed by some rewarding downhill sections through the bush. None of the trails are very technical with no large rocks to worry about and just a few log roll overs to test your skills with.

If you have ridden in Yaugher before then you may be familiar with the trails called ‘Super Loop’, ‘Foxtail’ and ‘Barre Warre’ which you will follow on race day. They are all graded either Green (easiest) or Blue (the easy end of medium) and with a bit of training beforehand, are fun for all riders. Plus there is NO sandy climb anymore!

The main things to remember here are to RELAX and ENJOY the flow of trails and SMILE because you are doing it!

Once you leave the Yaugher Forest and cross over the sealed road, you’ll ride around the back of the car park before cruising down the finish chute having achieved your goal as an Odyssey Angel yourself! WELL DONE! 

COURSE MARKING

The course will be very clearly marked with:

  • Large GREEN arrows and smaller GREEN arrows. Arrows indicate the correct route.
  • BRIGHT GREEN plastic surveyors’ tape tied to trees. These indicate that you are on the correct route.
  • “30km riders this way” signs. Follow them!
  • Red and white barrier tape marking where NOT TO GO!

FUEL STATIONS

  • 12km point in the Forrest Footy Ground feed zone. There will be taps located right next to the track hydration products available from marshals if required, or you can also get some support from your family and supporters as well!.

“The Odyssey Angels helped me feel more confident about participating.” Suzanne, 2020 first-timer Angels participant.

“I am feeling pretty damn happy with myself and with an absolutely amazing chick who encouraged me to the very end, Rhea Green! What a ride what a challenge; I loved meeting you ladies! Well done to all the awesome chicks out there, you guys are amazing!!!” Laura Payne, 2021 Angels participant.

COURSE VIDEOS

Check out these 4 PREVIEW VIDEOS of the 30km course that show you what it looks like and to dispel any concerns about the course or the technicality of the terrain. (the videos are a little old now but the trails and tips are still very relevant!)

Video #1: The race venue and start at the Forrest Football Ground

Video #2: The first 5km of 30km (and 50km) course.

Video #3: The Red Carpet single track descent. (NOTE: in 2022 the 30km race only does the lower half of the Red Carpet Track). UPDATE: in 2021 the Red Carpet Tk was renovated – here is a video of the new track.

Video #4: The Yaugher single track.

PASSING ETIQUETTE

We know that being passed by a faster rider is often quite intimidating for slower riders as it can make you feel less skilled and sometimes a bit silly – UNTIL NOW!!

We have given all riders (fast and slower) strict instructions to be aware of each other on the trails and follow these instructions for happy passing:

  • Faster riders who catch someone else are asked to let you now they are there, saying something like, “Can I go past when there’s a chance…” or even “Track please”. They should then wait for a wider section of track – and not just barge on through
  • The slower rider can then say, “OK, go past on the right” or “just up here it’s a bit wider, go there”. But it’s good to acknowledge that you heard them and give direction for when they can go past
  • The faster rider should not and does not expect to go past the moment they catch you, slower riders should stick to their line and call them through when it suits both of you
  • And if you are going to pass another rider then make sure you are actually faster, don’t pass if you are pushing 120% effort to get around them and then slow down afterwards

The bottom line is that both riders should leave your ego in the car park and simply communicate that you want to pass and agree a point when it suits to pass. Happy riding!