Robin Horsfield and Gabriella Arnold will attempt an unprecedented feat at the Caribbean Mountain Bike Championships in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic today.

As well as gunning for a podium finish, the national men’s and women’s champions will try to secure a spot for Bermuda at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games for the first time, competing in the elite men's and women's cross-country Olympic events.

The top six finishers in each elite category will earn spots for their country subject to a maximum of two riders per gender, with racing taking place at the rugged Complejo Deportivo La Barranquita circuit.

Peter Dunne, the Bermuda Bicycle Association president, has high hopes for the island’s riders.

“Mountain biking is not widely practised at a high level in the Caribbean, so we hope Robin and Gabby will be strong contenders and showcase the depth of talent Bermuda has to offer on the regional stage,” he said. “This is a great opportunity for both athletes.”

Horsfield, one of Bermuda’s most experienced off-road athletes, has already achieved success at this level having secured a bronze medal at the 2019 championships.

Arnold, who competes professionally on the international road and gravel circuit, is making her debut at the event but is familiar with regional competition, having represented Bermuda and earned medals both as a junior and elite road cyclist at the Caribbean Road Championships.

The courses in Santiago are designed to challenge even the most seasoned riders, combining steep climbs, fast descents and technical sections with tight turns and natural obstacles.

The cross-country Olympic format demands not only speed and endurance, but also razor-sharp handling skills. Spectators can expect thrilling racing against a backdrop of the Dominican Republic’s striking terrain and tropical beauty.

Horsfield and Arnold will be accompanied by coaches Mark Brown and Kelsey Devereaux, who coaches Arnold, in the Dominican Republic. Both coaches will also provide technical support and serve as mechanics throughout the event.