Adventure racing returned to Sydney’s northern beaches with the 2026 Explore Northern Beaches event, setting the tone for the next stop in the series on the Sunshine Coast — with entries still open.
Teams took on a fast, technical course around Lake Narrabeen, combining trail running, kayaking, and mountain biking in a tightly contested day of racing.
Course Overview
Competitors opened with a fast-flowing lake lap, collecting checkpoints in any order across public trails and parkland.
The kayak leg tested efficiency and decision-making, with teams required to collect checkpoints in sequence while navigating the waterway.
The race finished in the hills of Mt Narra, where climbing legs, technical trails, and optional bonus checkpoints created separation across the field.
Full Course Winners
Hardtale claimed the overall win with a standout performance, finishing in an adjusted time of 10:39:00.
Category Winners:
Male: Hardtale – 10:39:00
Female: WTF (Where’s the Finish?)
Mixed: MJ Operation Escalation – 11:14:00
Junior: Run & Roll
Half Course Winners
Giraffes on the Run took out the overall Half Course win, continuing the strong showing from junior teams in the Explore Series.
Sunshine Coast Up Next
The Explore Series now heads north to the Sunshine Coast, with racing based from Lake Edge Park.
Set around waterways, trails, and coastal terrain, the Sunshine Coast event offers fast, accessible racing — making it a perfect opportunity for teams to sharpen their navigation, transitions, and teamwork ahead of Hells Bells Adventure Race.
With entries still open, teams are encouraged to secure their spot and continue their progression through the Wild&Co racing pathway.
Enter The Sunny Coast Race Now
