OZ Stage Race Opening Registration for 2026 Memorial Day Event with special pricing for Military Veterans, Juniors and Trail Volunteers.
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS – October 31, 2025
The latest addition to Northwest Arkansas' rich off-road cycling scene, the OZ Stage Race is set to open registration on November 8 on the official event website, ozstagerace.com.
Professional and amateur riders will compete in three consecutive days of mountain bike racing over Memorial Day weekend, May 21-24, 2026. Owned and produced by the Ozark Foundation, this multi-day event will showcase the internationally acclaimed trail systems throughout Northwest Arkansas. Each day of the race will highlight stages on different trail sections along the Bentonville-Bella Vista corridor. The course will challenge racers with punchy climbs and flowy descents, immersing participants in the incredible atmosphere of the region's mountain biking community. Ozark Foundation's Jamie Cathey and Kevin Tucker will serve as the event and race director respectively.
"We are enthusiastic to launch the OZ Stage Race in the heart of the OZ Trails network," said Mike Spivey, President and CEO of the Ozark Foundation. "This event will not only further anchor Northwest Arkansas as a world-class destination for off-road cycling but will also showcase the entertainment, culinary and cultural attractions in the region."
In its first year, the Foundation is capping registrations to 400 individuals. The first 50 racers to register will receive 50% off their registration, thanks to the generous support of Arvest Bank, proud sponsor of the inaugural OZ Stage Race. The Foundation is also offering special registration pricing to racers 23 years and younger, military veterans, National Interscholastic Cycling Association coaches and local trail maintenance volunteers. Event Director, Jamie Cathey says, As part of our Memorial Day salute to our military, we are proud to honor those who have served or are currently serving with our 'Service & Sacrifice' discount. This discount plus special pricing for youth categories, local trail volunteers, and youth cycling coaches, reflects ourfoundation's commitment to removing barriers to participation in outdoor recreation and contributing positively to our community through world-class experiences."
Further details regarding registration, categories, and course specifics will be available on the OZ Stage Race website as registration opens.
For more information, interviews with Mike Spivey, Jamie Cathey and Kevin Tucker please send your inquiry to Michael J. Clark