A Tribute to a Legend: The 2025 Mark Gunter Photo Awards Are Here!
The world of cycling photography is about to celebrate a monumental occasion—the 10th edition of the Mark Gunter Photo Awards (MGPAs). But here's where it gets emotional: these awards are more than just a competition; they’re a heartfelt tribute to the late Mark Gunter, an Australian cycling photographer whose lens captured the essence of the sport until his tragic passing in 2015. His legacy lives on through these awards, which not only honor his work but also shine a spotlight on the best cycling photographs of the year. And this is the part most people miss—it’s also a chance to support cancer research through the Australian charity Tour de Cure.
A Decade of Celebrating Cycling Photography
As 2025 comes to a close, Escape Collective is thrilled to partner once again with Mark’s wife, Leeanne, to bring you this annual tradition. Over the years, the MGPAs have received thousands of stunning submissions from both professional and amateur photographers, each capturing the spirit of cycling in unique ways. This year promises to be no different, with entries now open until January 4, 2026. Winners will be announced on January 21, 2026, and we can’t wait to see the incredible talent that emerges.
Categories and Prizes: Something for Everyone
For 2025, photographers can submit their work in three main categories:
- Professional: Aimed at seasoned photographers, this category offers both prestige and the coveted perpetual trophy.
- Amateur: Perfect for enthusiasts, with fantastic prizes from Ritchey, Albion, and Feedback Sports up for grabs.
- Smartphone: A category for those who capture cycling moments on their phones, with the first submission free.
But here’s where it gets controversial—should smartphone photography be considered on par with traditional camera work? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Participating in the MGPAs isn’t just about winning prizes. For every AU$10 entry fee (roughly US$6.50 / €6 / £5), funds are donated to cancer research through Tour de Cure. Even if you don’t enter, you can still support the cause by voting for your favorite photos—each vote after the first requires a small donation. The most popular photos across all categories will win cash prizes, so your vote truly makes a difference.
Meet the Judges: Masters of Their Craft
This year’s competition will be judged by a panel of esteemed professional photographers, including:
- Léon van Bon: The 2024 MGPA winner and former Olympic cyclist turned photographer, Léon brings a unique perspective to the table. His work is a testament to the intuition and emotion that define great cycling photography.
- Michael Blann: Known for his iconic book Mountains: Epic Cycling Climbs, Michael’s work captures the silence, scale, and spirit of cycling’s most challenging terrains.
- Twila Federica: A rising star in the world of photography, Twila’s bio is coming soon, but her talent speaks for itself.
How to Get Involved
Entries are now open, and we encourage all cycling photography enthusiasts to participate. Whether you’re a professional, an amateur, or a smartphone snapper, there’s a place for you in the MGPAs. Visit the official website for detailed rules and start submitting your best shots today. Don’t forget to follow the hashtag #markgunterphotoawards2025 on Instagram to stay updated on the latest submissions.
A Final Thought
As we celebrate Mark Gunter’s legacy, we’re reminded of the power of photography to capture moments, tell stories, and inspire others. But here’s a question to ponder: In an age of digital overload, what makes a cycling photograph truly stand out? Is it the technical skill, the emotional impact, or something else entirely? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear from you!
Let’s make this 10th edition of the Mark Gunter Photo Awards one to remember. Submit your photos, support a great cause, and join us in honoring a legend. The countdown is on—are you ready to be part of history?
