The 2026 Luxliner Schools MTB Series has been launched with a clear mission: to grow marathon-style mountain bike racing among school riders while delivering a safe, professionally run and genuinely memorable experience. Designed for Junior, Youth and Sub-Junior riders, the series creates a structured pathway for young cyclists to test themselves over non-technical routes.
Paid partnership with The Leverage Corporation
As a dedicated schools sub-division of the established Stellantis Adventure Series, the Luxliner Schools MTB Series taps into an event platform already known for quality organisation, strong logistics and rider-focused planning. Five events make up the 2026 calendar, ensuring consistent competition across the year and rewarding commitment, depth and team participation.
The season opens with Round 1, The Grind, on 7 February, before moving into the flagship Luxliner Route 66 stage race from 28 February to 1 March. After a mid-season pause, racing resumes with Magalies Rocks the Cradle on 6 September, followed by the pivotal Round 4, the Cradle Mountain Trophy, from 4 to 5 October. The series concludes with the Magalies Adventure on 29 November.
Each event features marathon-style distances ranging between 40 and 45 kilometres, carefully selected to challenge young riders while remaining accessible. Routes are fully marked, supported by experienced marshals, well-stocked water points and professional medical teams at every round. The emphasis is firmly on creating an environment where schools can introduce riders to endurance racing without the intimidation factor of overly technical terrain.
Backing the schools is a strong support structure from Luxliner itself. Each participating school receives five complimentary entries per event, significantly lowering the barrier to entry. Schools requiring additional entries can access them at standard event rates. Adding further value, Luxliner will provide free bus transport to and from each venue for schools that are existing, contracted Luxliner clients – a major logistical advantage for teachers and sports coordinators managing away events.
Competition within the series is driven by a detailed points system that rewards both performance and participation. Points are allocated to the top 20 finishers per category and gender, with descending scores from 25 points for a win down to five points for 11th through 20th. Every finisher earns a participation point, ensuring that effort and commitment count, regardless of finishing position. Schools that field 10 or more riders at an event receive an additional 10 bonus points, reinforcing the series’ team-based ethos.
All five events count towards the overall series standings, with double points on offer at Round 4, the Cradle Mountain Trophy – a round that could prove decisive in the race for the title. The Cradle Mountain Trophy also introduces a unique schools-only camping experience. With no parents in attendance, learners and at least one teacher per school will take part in a supervised overnight stay designed to build camaraderie, resilience and team spirit.
Results and updated points logs will be published online after every round, keeping schools, riders and supporters fully engaged throughout the season.
At stake is more than just bragging rights. The top-performing school in the 2026 Luxliner Schools MTB Series will walk away with R50 000 in combined cash and Luxliner Bus Service value, along with the Champion School Trophy. The winning teacher or sports master will be rewarded with a weekend for two at Mount Grace Hotel & Spa, plus R5 000 in spending money. Additional recognition will be given to the top individual male and female performers, as well as a Team Spirit Award for the school with the highest overall participation.
The top three Junior Men and Women at each round will also earn cash prizemoney.
For schools looking to grow cycling culture, develop endurance athletes and give learners access to professionally run events, the Luxliner Schools MTB Series sets a new benchmark. More information on the events forming part of the 2026 series is available at https://leveragecorporation.co.za.
