Round one of the National Mountain Bike New Zealand (MTBNZ) cross-country (XC) event was held in Papakaio on Sunday.
The race featured riders from around New Zealand competing in 12 divisions ranging from under 15 right up to masters and a combined under-23 and elite race.
Craig Oliver won the men’s elite races event and Amelie Mackay, both of Canterbury, won the women’s combined under-23 and elite race.
Local riders Tim Rush and Taz Selfe finished fourth and sixth respectively in the combined under-23 and elite race.
Local Brent Cunningham came in third in the men’s masters 2 (40-49 years-old) race.
The event was a huge success and was really well run, Mountain Biking North Otago president Marcus Brown said.
“Fabulous day. Great weather. Super competitors.
“It’s been seamless.”
It was a team effort in preparing for the event he said.
Mr Brown also wanted to highlight the contributions of Brett Stuart, who has been looking after the track since October.
“There’s been a lot of work and Stewie has really driven that himself, it’s been fabulous.
“Without a great track and really generous hosts, we wouldn’t have the event.”
Mr Brown hoped the event would return to North Otago.
“We profoundly hope so. We’ve lobbied for it a little.”
2023 was shaping up to be a big year for Mountain Biking North Otago, he said.
“We’re working on a couple of other events, cycling related, so you can watch this space.”
The second round of the MTBNZ XC event is in Christchurch next weekend.
