After a strong performance in South Africa, Maltese mountain biker Stephen Grima, racing as Team Gaudos, is set to compete in the 2026 4 Islands Epic in Croatia. He will race alongside teammate Mario Matulović.
The pair will take part in one of the most unique stage races in the world of mountain biking. Known for its slogan “Conquer the Rocks”, the event features five days of racing across the rocky Kvarner Islands. Riders will cover around 300 kilometres and climb 6,500 metres, starting in Baška on the island of Krk and finishing in Mali Lošinj. The route includes a mix of challenging landscapes, from the Moon Plateau to the cliffs of Cres, a time trial on Unije, and a technical final stage on Lošinj.
Although it may not look extreme at first, the race is very demanding. Riders face steep climbs straight from sea level and rough, rocky trails that test endurance, skill and teamwork. Competitors race in teams of two and must stay together throughout. Between stages, they travel by ferry and stay on boats or in seaside hotels, creating a moving race village and a strong sense of adventure.
For Grima, this race comes shortly after completing the Absa Cape Epic in South Africa for the second year in a row, one of the toughest mountain bike races in the world. This achievement highlights his growing reputation as one of Malta’s most determined endurance athletes, and he arrives in Croatia in strong form.
This year’s race also includes a new feature, with the island of Unije added to the route for the first time, making the challenge even greater.
The race starts on Tuesday 14 April and finishes on Saturday 18 April.
Team Gaudos thanked their sponsors for their continued support, including Extra Karte, Visit Malta, SG Woodworks Ltd, Raico, National Gypsum Limited Malta, Wurth Malta, Pitre Hardware, Lourdes Opticians, JV Pharma, A. Caruana Enterprises Ltd and Xlendi Supermarket.
