Jordan Mifsud takes out top honours at Gran Fondo 2025
Hundreds of cyclists took over the streets of Darwin and surrounds as the Top End Gran Fondo returned for another epic day of two-wheeled action. See all the winners and Photos here.
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The 14th edition of the Sunbuild Top End Gran Fondo has been run and won with hundreds of cyclists young and old taking to the streets of Darwin and surrounds bright and early Sunday morning.
Riders from across the nation mixed it with Territory locals across five individual races spanning from 5km to the full 135km.
And with roughly a 25 per cent increase in the novice and family ride category, the Fondo has continued to demonstrate it’s an event for anyone and everyone.
Chair of Darwin Cycling Club Julian Barry said he was stoked to see so many riders taking part in the festivities.
“This year’s Gran Fondo succeeded expectations with 500 cyclists out and about enjoying this incredible dry season weather,” Barry said.
“The addition of the closed roads has ensured the safety of our cyclists and it’s been pleasing to see more families and novice cyclists give it a go.
“Cycling is great for fitness, social interaction and mental health so we hope that more and more people get out and just enjoy the ride.”
Elsewhere, naming rights’ Sunbuild Neil Sunners said it was a slog for him to hop in the saddle this morning after a big night of celebrations.
“It was really good to see everybody out there and have a go at it, “Sunners said.
“Riding this morning was a bit of a challenge for me.
“My wife had our 70th birthday last night and I crawled into bed at 1.30 (am), so I thought ‘I’ll have a slow one today’.
“For all the families that have come, all the young ones – there was a few out there that I saw – that’s all I can ask (if we can) encourage the young ones (riders) to come along and enjoy.
“It’s magic to ride with common people that have common interests in cycling, the scenery and all that sort of stuff is fantastic.
“That’s what it’s all about.”
RESULTS (overall place/name/net time)
135km –
Men: 1st) Jordan Mifsud (3:30:37), 2nd) Phillip Brownscombe (3:30:38), 3rd) Simon Gower (3:30:48)
Women: 29th) Kate Bourchier (3:51:40), 43rd) Lisa McDonald (4:24:34), 51st) Annabel Counsel (4:33:18)
92km –
Men: 1st) Matthew Jones (2:36:32), 2nd) William Murphy (2:36:37), 3rd) Nigel Doyle (2:36:50)
Women: 16th) Sara Martin (2:46:08), 27th) Jolie Brakey (2:56:44), 34th) Fabiana Tavares Regis (2:59:41)
49km –
Men: 1st) Michael Menadue (1:26:28), 2nd) Greg Jarvis (1:26:31), 3rd) Rodney McComiskie (1:26:31)
Women: 12th) Cailin Wigg (1:26:57), 24th) Emma Winterflood (1:39:04), 26th) Poppy Goat (1:39:54)
15km –
Men: 1st) Murray Darker (35:41), 2nd) Marlon Esguerra (35:45), 3rd) Fergus Tennent (38:06)
Women: 4th) Meredith Jordan (38:06), 5th) Camilla Wells (38:16), 9th) Emily Hinds (38:47)
5km –
Men: 3rd) Maxwell Klippan (17:14), 4th) John Michael Egana (33:12), 5th) Bodhi Koenig (36:16)
Women: 1st) Jasmine King (15:34), 2nd) Kathleen Doyle (17:07), 6th) Sarah Royans (36:17)
PICTURES
Fondo 2025: NT’s biggest cycling event hits the road Sunday
Cyclists far and wide are gearing up and getting their lycras ready in preparation for the Territory’s biggest and most iconic cycling event.
The 14th running of the Top End Gran Fondo will see 800 riders tackle the course this Sunday.
Riders of all ages and abilities will test their endurance across six separate events.
The Fondo will include a fully closed loop road from the Darwin Waterfront to Palmerston, tackling the Charles Darwin National Park along the way.
And for the first time a lap of the Hidden Valley Raceway has been included on the first circuit of the 49km, 92km and 135km rides.
Chair of the Darwin Cycling Club Julian Barry said the Fondo is a “special” event that has “grown” over the years for all.
“This event has grown into something really special,” Mr Barry said.
“We’ve created a space where elite cyclists, first-timers, families, and school kids can all ride together safely.
“The Fondo truly reflects the best of the Territory, thanks to the support of the NT Government, great sponsors and the community – and our great dry season weather”.
Echoing Barry’s sentiment, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the Gran Fondo continues to highlight what’s great about the Territory.
“The Top End Gran Fondo is more than a bike ride. It’s a showcase of Territory resilience, spirit, and connection,” Ms Finocchiaro said.
“It encourages people to get outdoors, stay active, and support each other.
“We’re proud to back such an inclusive and vibrant event that brings the whole community together.”
2025 Ride Distances:
– 5km Ecoz Family Ride
– 15km AANT Salary Packaging Short Fondo
– 49km Darwin Family Law Half Fondo
– 92km INPEX Top End Fondo
– 135km Sunbuild Gran Fondo
– Virtual Ride via FulGaz
The event also includes:
– Cycle Zone Event Hub
– Arrow Properties Hydration Stations
– Entertainment, food vendors, and a fun, family-friendly vibe at the Waterfront
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