From 2026 · Year One. This post covers the first Oz Stage Race. Dates, times and prices were for 2026 and may differ for 2027.
BENTONVILLE, AR — The inaugural Oz Stage Race is officially here.
Beginning May 21–24, 2026, riders from 36 states and six countries will descend on Northwest Arkansas for four days of world-class mountain bike racing across the region's iconic OZ Trails network.
Produced by the Ozark Foundation, the inaugural event has drawn a remarkable level of participation for its first year, reinforcing Northwest Arkansas' reputation as one of the premier mountain bike destinations in the world.
To see this level of participation in year one is incredibly exciting and speaks to the reputation Northwest Arkansas has built as a global cycling destination. Having riders travel here from 36 states and six countries for the inaugural Oz Stage Race validates what we've believed all along — that this region is ready to host a world-class multi-day mountain bike stage race.— Mike Spivey, President & CEO, Ozark Foundation
Envisioned as the crown jewel off-road cycling event of the OZ Trails network, the Oz Stage Race features a four-day format: a prologue and three demanding stages through Bella Vista and Bentonville. Riders will tackle a mix of technical singletrack, flow trail, punchy climbs and ledgy terrain.
Participants are competing across professional and amateur categories, both individually and in two-person teams.
Race format & finalized stages
- Prologue — May 21 · OZ Trails Bike Park
- The race opens with a short, high-intensity prologue at the OZ Trails Bike Park, the first-ever competitive event hosted at the new facility. Ozark Foundation is honored that the Oz Stage Race will serve as the Bike Park's inaugural event, launching what is expected to become a landmark venue for gravity events and community riding in Northwest Arkansas.
- Stage One — Back 40
- The first full stage sends riders through Bella Vista's renowned Back 40 Trail System: flowing singletrack, rolling terrain and a fast-paced opening day that rewards rhythm and smart pacing. A true introduction to stage racing in Northwest Arkansas, Stage One sets the tone for the challenges ahead.
- Stage Two — Little Sugar
- Known as the queen stage, Little Sugar delivers the most demanding climbing of the race: relentless elevation gain, technical features and sustained physical demands across one of Northwest Arkansas' most challenging trail systems. This is where pacing, fueling and resilience prove critical.
- Stage Three — Bentonville Finale
- The final stage races from Coler MTB Preserve to Bella Vista, through Coler, Slaughter Pen, Handcut Hollow and Blowing Springs before the final finish. Though shorter in distance, its rocky technical terrain ensures one final test and a spectacular conclusion to three days of stage racing.
The Oz Stage Race builds on Ozark Foundation's proven track record of producing premier outdoor recreation events, including Expedition Ozark, U.S. Pro Cup and the Arkansas Enduro Series. Ozark Foundation's Jamie Cathey serves as Event Director.
The Oz Stage Race is about far more than what happens between the start and finish lines. From the energy of each morning's start village to strategically placed aid stations and fully supported recovery zones at every finish, every detail is designed to help riders focus on the experience. We've built this event to challenge athletes on the bike while delivering the support, atmosphere and hospitality that make stage racing truly memorable.— Jamie Cathey, Event Director
The course showcases the diversity of OZ Trails better than any event we've produced. Riders will experience everything from flow and speed to technical precision and true stage-race strategy.— Kevin Tucker, Race Director
Live updates, stage results and event coverage will be available throughout race weekend on this site. Follow @ozstagerace on Instagram and Facebook for race coverage.
For media
- Video and photos
- app.air.inc/a/biSVmgNkh
- Media contact
- Jamie Cathey, Oz Stage Race Event Director, Ozark Foundation · jcathey@ozarkfoundation.org · (864) 637-9616
About Ozark Foundation
Ozark Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that creates healthy and enriching outdoor recreational experiences in Arkansas. To fulfill its mission, Ozark Foundation partners with organizations to host, create and operate a variety of outdoor recreational events. From world-class championship-caliber races to fun outdoor family events, the foundation aims to position Arkansas as a premier outdoor recreation destination where all are welcome regardless of ability. More at ozarkfoundation.org.
About OZ Trails
OZ Trails is a world-class network of more than 500 miles of soft-surface shared-use trails, headquartered in Bentonville, Ark., The Mountain Biking Capital of the World™. OZ Trails was born out of deep ties and support from our community and is carried out through loyal ambassadors, adventure seekers, riders, grinders, runners and hikers. OZ Trails strives to inspire everyone to come and celebrate their full selves in a world of nature, art and culture with an open heart, an inclusive mind and a welcoming spirit. More at oztrails.com.