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Around 2,500 riders took over Victoria’s High Country on Sunday for the 2026 edition of Peaks Challenge Falls Creek — a record field for one of Australia’s most challenging and spectacular one-day cycling events.

Set across 235 kilometres of alpine terrain with more than 4,000 metres of climbing, Peaks Challenge takes riders over three iconic ascents — Tawonga Gap, Mount Hotham and the terrifying back of Falls Creek — all within the event’s 13-hour cutoff. It’s the kind of day that earns comparisons with a mountain stage of the Tour de France, and with last weekend’s perfect conditions — a cool start giving way to sunshine — Peaks ’26 was one for the history books.

Former pro and reigning Australian National Gravel Champion Mark O’Brien, 38, secured a commanding third consecutive victory, covering the course in 6:46:58 — more than ten minutes clear of the chasing pack. 

The first female across the line was Bicycle Network’s Matilda Raynolds in just over seven and a half hours.

Behind the frontrunners, thousands of riders finished in waves — from the sub-8 hour brigade chasing special jerseys to the so-called ‘lanterne rouge’ riders grinding out the final kilometres between hours 12 and 13. More than 150 support staff and volunteers kept the wheels turning and riders fuelled throughout the day.

Major boost for Ride2School

This year also saw the Peaks Legends initiative come into its own, with a group of dedicated fundraisers collectively raising $56,118 for Bicycle Network’s Ride2School program — which supports students travelling to school by bike — through 643 donations.

These funds will be invested into delivering a full Ride2School program at a Melbourne primary school, including initiatives such as Bike Education, Open Streets, Active Paths and Bike Bus, and paying forward the passion and spirit of Peaks riders to the next generation.

Bicycle Network CEO Alison McCormack, a wave leader and veteran of 13 Peaks Challenge rides, said the record turnout and ideal weather made for an unforgettable edition. 

“Every year we return to the stunning Victorian alpine region to enjoy this incredible event,” she said. 

“Our Peaks Legends raised over $50,000 for Ride2School — a massive win for making active transport more accessible and building healthy habits in the next generation.”