Get ready for a game-changer in the mountain biking world—a brand-new stage race is hitting the USA, and it’s bringing a jaw-dropping $15,000 prize purse to Bentonville, Arkansas. But here’s where it gets controversial: can Bentonville truly claim the title of the ‘Mountain Biking Capital of the World’? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Scheduled for May 21-24, 2026, the inaugural OZ Stage Race promises to be a three-day adrenaline-packed event, with an optional prologue day to kick things off. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the pros. The race is designed to be inclusive, welcoming everyone from elite riders to everyday enthusiasts. But does a $15,000 prize purse really level the playing field for amateurs? We’ll let you decide.
The vision behind the race is bold: Arkansas has every type of bike race imaginable—except a stage race. Enter the Ozark Foundation, determined to fill that gap. Kevin Tucker, Race Director, explains, ‘We’ve got iconic races like the Trans-Sylvania Epic and Breck Epic, but the central U.S. was missing its own signature event.’ Jamie Cathey, Event Director, adds, ‘We’re not just showcasing our trails; we’re creating a full experience that celebrates both national-level racers and local riders.’
But here’s the twist: The race’s venue isn’t set in stone. Organizers hope to use the brand-new OZ Trails Bike Park, but construction delays could force them to relocate across the highway. How will this uncertainty affect the race’s reputation before it even begins? Only time will tell.
Let’s break down the course details, which are still in flux but promise to be epic. Day 1 takes riders through the Back 40 Trails, a XC paradise with machine-built berms and flowing singletrack. Day 2 shifts to the Little Sugar Trails, a chunkier, punchier network with LED-lit tunnels and stream crossings. Day 3? An urban adventure through Bentonville’s in-town trails, linking Coler, Slaughter Pen, and Handcut Hollow. But here’s the question: will the final day’s technical challenges overshadow the race’s accessibility for amateurs?
The Ozark Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to making the outdoors accessible, is pulling out all the stops. They’re even considering e-bike categories, though details are still up in the air. ‘We want everyone to feel like they belong here,’ says Cathey. But with such a hefty prize purse, will the race truly cater to all levels, or will it become a pro-dominated event?
Here’s where you come in: Do you think the OZ Stage Race can strike the perfect balance between elite competition and inclusivity? Or will the prize money shift the focus away from its community-driven mission? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
