Mountain bikers are fizzing as Central has been confirmed to host two days of world class mountain bike racing as part of the Crankworx Summer Series 2023.

The series begins with an enduro race at Matangi Station MTB, right on Alexandra’s doorstep, on February 28 and March 1.

Described as the ultimate mountain biking road trip, the events will give local riders a chance to race with the best national and international riders, providing a path for potential Crankworx World Tour greatness - as well as a good time.

In 2023, spectators will be welcomed at Crankworx events, and plans are to programme the mid-week racing in the evenings to give locals the chance to view the action after work.

Local mountain biking expert Phil Oliver is once again assisting with the operational requirements of the event at Matangi Station MTB. 

Tourism Central Otago (TCO) will work with organisers to develop opportunities for the community and schools to connect with athletes when they are here. 

TCO’s Antz Longman said work had continued behind the scenes since November 2021, to build on the success of the first year’s events.

“Our team has been working closely with members of the community and Crankworx event organisers to retain and ensure the legacy value of this event is fully realised for Central Otago. 

“We aim to inspire the next generation of mountain bikers, and with the natural advantages those living in the region have to get out on their bikes, we should see even more world-class athletes emerging in a few short years. 

“In 2021, we saw local Alexandra riders such as Bradley Harris, Matt Scoles, Robin Peiper, Eddie Adams and Hayley Harris hold their own against some of the top New Zealand riders. Having international riders on their home turf really highlighted just how good this place is as a proving ground.” 

Rocky, raw terrain above Alexandra provides technical challenges for mountain bikers

The Crankworx Summer Series secured a second round of funding from the Southern Lakes Regional Events fund. 

TCO neighbouring regional tourism organisations in Queenstown and Wānaka and other event partners have provided further support.

Crankworx has confirmed it has been approved New Zealand Major Event funding for 2024 through to 2027, which will go a long way to securing the ongoing hosting of the event beyond 2023.

“Crankworx choosing to return to Alexandra and the Matangi Station MTB park proves once again we are blessed with a natural playground, and so fortunate to have a passionate mountain bike community that have made these trails truly world class,” Antz said.

“We can’t wait. Taking the learnings from 2021, adding in crowds and building on the hype of Crankworx, it is going to be epic. Mark it in your calendar now.”

Events and locations for the Crankworx Summer Series are:

·         Enduro - Alexandra; February 28 –  March 1

·         Dual slalom – Wānaka; March 4 – March 5

·         Downhill - Cardrona; March 7– 9 March 9 

·         Pump track – Queenstown; March 11 – March 12

For more information visit the Crankworx Summer Series website here.