The Main Divide

Race the Valley, Chase the Cash

Sunday 22nd February 2026 • Handicap Road Racing in the High Country

Canterbury’s most honest road race. Long. Brutal.

The Main Divide is a true handicap road race that drives deep into Canterbury’s high country, rolling through wide valleys, relentless undulations, and straight toward the Southern Alps. The scenery is next-level. The climbing is not negotiable.

This is proper endurance racing — the kind that rewards patience early, grit late, and respect for the terrain the whole way through.

Big prize money

Over $2,000 prize pool

This year the prize money is spread to reward effort, not just the sharp end.

King & Queen of the Mountain – Porters Pass (Strava Sponsored)

• Fastest Male
• Fastest Female

To be eligible, riders must finish the race and upload their ride to Strava.

There will also be minor age-group prizes, because suffering is universal and effort deserves recognition — even if you didn’t podium, sprint, or remember your surname at the finish.

Yes, everyone gets a participation award.
No, it’s not a trophy.
Yes, you still earned it.

Full prize breakdown will be released closer to race day.

Real racing, open roads

Rolling North Canterbury tarmac — fast early pace, then the Pyramid Valley pinches. Open-road racing: ride to NZ road rules, give way when required. Marshals guide the flow, they don’t stop traffic.

Community shout‑out

Huge thanks to Pringle Homes and our brilliant volunteers for making this race possible. If you’ve ever marshalled a corner in the wind… you’re basically a saint.

Limited to 120 riders

Limited to 120 riders — once it’s full, entries shut.

Early bird is cheaper.
There are no late-entry sob stories.
Someone faster than you is already thinking about entering.

Race Day Details at a Glance

The Race is scheduled for Sunday 22nd Feb 2026, Entry is $55 with an early bird of $39 until the 11th January 2026