For years, people asked why Black Sheep stepped away from the Tour Down Under. And if we would ever come back. The truth is, returning was never a given.
The Château era was special. It was also exhausting. Then came two years of Covid, followed by another two years of serious recalibration as a business, and as an industry. Somewhere after that stretch, the idea of returning to the Tour Down Under stopped feeling nostalgic and started feeling possible again.

The Trackhouse came together through timing, shifting trends, and most importantly, people. Friends who offered honest advice. Staff who quietly make things happen. The kind who get shit done and ask for very little in return. They know who they are.

Our goal was simple. Create a place people could actually stay. Somewhere that didn’t shove a brand down your throat, or feel like an ego-trip. A base to start rides, finish rides, hang around, tell stories, and feel comfortable in a city that isn’t home.

What follows is a behind-the-scenes look at what the Trackhouse became.

"Our goal was simple. Create a place people could actually stay. A base to start rides, finish rides, hang around, tell stories, and feel comfortable in a city that isn’t home."

At its core, the Tour Down Under is about riding bikes. That is why people travel. Adelaide is not home, so the focus was on showing riders the roads that make this place special. The atmosphere was intentional. No egos. Just smiles, laughter, and good energy. Something that is not always guaranteed in cycling spaces. The most common feedback was simple. People felt relaxed. Like they could settle in and lose track of time.

Nightshift was the big swing. Held on the busiest night of the year in Adelaide, it brought racing to everyone, across every level. The aim was an atmosphere that felt exciting rather than intimidating. Competitive without being exclusive.

Then came the decision to add a running race. Because why not. The Nightshift 5000 joined the program, proving that cycling and running can exist together when the focus is on shared experience.

The week also included Roller Derby chaos, won by a multiple world champion, podcast recordings with multiple national champions, future champions, and the chance to watch one of Australia’s rising stars absolutely light it up at ProVelo.

None of this happens without good people. Ride leaders showed up every day. Ambassadors, friends, and familiar faces who are always the first to put their hand up. Too many to name. Always appreciated.

We had two teams, Black Sheep and Focus, who barely knew each other beforehand, that came together fast. Early mornings, late arvos, long days, and big nights. Somewhere in that, genuine friendships were formed. Plenty more people were involved than what appears on camera. 

From all of us at Black Sheep and Focus, thank you. Adelaide has filled our bucket, and hopefully we filled yours as well.