
More than 150 riders converged on the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus for the 2025 Rob Hodgson Memorial Super Crit, transforming the Central Coast into a showcase of speed, skill and community. Hosted by Central Coast Cycling Club (CCCC) and Northern Sydney Cycling Club (NSCC), the event delivered tight, high-energy racing while honouring one of the sport’s most inspiring young athletes.
Honouring Rob Hodgson
The memorial race celebrates the life of Rob Hodgson — a talented Sydney cyclist who competed in Europe and inspired many before losing his battle with cancer at just 31. His motto “Ride Tall” has become the heart of the event: a call to ride with purpose, joy and courage. His story remains a unifying force, drawing clubs, families and supporters together each year.
Big Fields and High-Quality Racing

With more than $3,000 in prizes and a strong inter-club turnout, racing was fast from the first whistle.
The 1.8 km closed-road circuit at Ourimbah offered technical corners, long lines and prime spots for breakaways — ideal conditions for aggressive criterium racing.
- Morning grades (C–F) kicked off the day with large fields and animated racing, including last-lap surges and decisive solo moves.
- The Women’s Handicap delivered one of the most exciting races of the day, praised online for its intensity and smart tactical riding.
- A and B Grades closed out the program with blistering pace and tightly controlled bunch dynamics, producing thrilling finishes in front of a strong crowd.
Clubs described the racing as “hard and fast across all grades,” a fitting tribute to the competitive spirit Rob embodied.

A Community Event in Every Sense
Beyond the racing, the atmosphere made the day special. Riders ranged from juniors to veterans in their 60s and 70s, while families lined the circuit cheering, filming and soaking up the action.
Volunteers from CCCC and NSCC kept the day running smoothly — from set-up and timing to commissaires, marshals and logistics. The professionalism of both clubs was widely praised, reinforcing the memorial crit’s growing reputation as one of NSW’s best-run and most meaningful racing events.
More Than a Race
The Rob Hodgson Memorial Crit has quickly become a standout fixture in the NSW racing calendar — part elite competition, part community gathering, and part heartfelt tribute. Each year it grows in size and significance, carried by the momentum of two passionate clubs and a community committed to keeping Rob’s legacy alive.
As riders look ahead to the 2026 edition, one message from Rob continues to guide the day:
Ride Tall. Always.







