Thredbo was once again the epicentre of mountain biking exhilaration as it hosted the 2025 Cannonball MTB Festival, presented by Boost Mobile, drawing 750 competitors and thousands of enthusiastic spectators. This thrilling event, celebrating its 11th anniversary, proved to be an unforgettable week of intense racing and vibrant festival vibes.
PHOTO: Thredbo’s MTB Festival celebrates 11th anniversary – Supplied.
The festival, recognised as a cornerstone event in the Australian mountain biking calendar, featured six major events including the much-anticipated Oakley Pump Track Challenge and the Rockshox Australian Open Downhill.
Tim Windshuttle, Thredbo MTB Business Manager, remarked, “Cannonball MTB Festival continues to stand out as a premier event in the Australian mountain biking calendar. Seeing our local riders and ambassadors take centre stage at an internationally recognised event is, and has always been, a defining moment of this festival.”
Despite the challenges brought by unpredictable weather, Thredbo’s community and organisers ensured a seamless execution of all events. The final day witnessed the rescheduled Oakley Pump Track Challenge where Caroline Buchanan dominated the women’s category, while Bailey Mears snagged the top spot in the men’s.
PHOTO: After a delayed start, competitors were eager to claim victory in the Oakley Pump Track Challenge.
Riding high on adrenaline, the Rockshox Australian Open Downhill took centre stage, attracting 562 competitors to tackle the legendary Cannonball Downhill course. With the largest cash prizes in Australian downhill history, stakes were high. Troy Brosnan emerged victorious in the pro men’s category, while Sian A’Hern triumphed in the women’s category, showcasing her unparalleled prowess.
PHOTO: Rockshox Australian Open Downhill took centre stage in Thredbo.
The climax of the festival was the crowning of the 2025 King and Queen of Cannonball. After amassing points over various competitions, Sian A’Hern and Luke Meier-Smith were officially declared the festival champions, a testament to their consistent performances across the week’s events.
Beyond the thrilling races, the festival has proven to be a major draw card for the Snowy Mountains region, providing significant economic benefits through the influx of visitors.
PHOTO: Sian A’Hern and Luke Meier-Smith were crowned the 2025 King and Queen of Cannonball.
As the festival wrapped up amidst the jubilant Boost Mobile Cannonball Afterparty featuring Babe Rainbow, anticipation already builds for what the 2026 edition will bring.