Thursday, August 14, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Mackay Juniors Lead The Way At Queensland Gravel & Cyclocross State Championships

Mackay’s rising cycling stars have made their mark on the state stage, bringing home an impressive haul of titles and podium finishes at the AusCycling Queensland 2025 Gravel State Championships in Rockhampton on Saturday, 9 August, and the Cyclocross State Championships the following day.

Heavy rain in the lead-up to the gravel event made for a muddy, unpredictable course, but Mackay’s juniors thrived in the challenging conditions.

In the Gravel State Championships, Max Teague was crowned Queensland State Champion in the U15 Boys, while Oaklan Marwood took the U13 Boys title. Scott Bennett claimed second place in the same category. Mackay’s seniors also shone, with Kyle Marwood taking first place in the Masters 2 Men, securing another state title. Strong rides came from Lee Taylor (5th, Masters 4 Men), Geoff Bennett (6th), Noel Garciano (7th), and Zac Schwarzrock, who impressed early in the Elite Men’s race before an unfortunate DNF.

On Sunday, the Cyclocross State Championships saw Mackay’s juniors continue their dominance. Max Teague secured his second state title of the weekend in the U15 Boys with a commanding win, finishing two-and-a-half minutes clear. Scott Bennett took second after an exciting sprint finish against the series leader. In the Elite Men’s race, Zac Schwarzrock placed third, completing seven gruelling laps against Queensland’s best.

“Seeing our juniors step up and win state titles in such tough conditions is huge for the future of Mackay cycling,” said Mackay Cycling Track Coordinator Kyle Marwood.

“These results show the depth of talent we have coming through, and the weekend’s success is a credit to every rider who lined up.”

With three junior state titles, elite podiums, and strong results across the board, Mackay’s riders proved they can handle everything from sticky gravel climbs to slick cyclocross corners.

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