After 21 years at the helm of Linger & Die, local mountain bike legend Phil Oliver has put the race up for sale.

The race has been running for 28 years in total and Phil said he’s ready for a change.

“It’s time for someone younger, fitter and with more enthusiasm to take over.”

Phil said he has made great friends and connections through the event.

“I’ve met a lot of people from Nelson and then all over the South.”

Each year the number of entrants is approximately 200. 

“This year there will be some coming from as far away as Rotorua.

“It will be the end of an era for myself and the great team of helpers and riders who have worked hard with me for the last 21 years. 

“Thank you for the awesome support from competitors and helpers over the years, it won’t be easy saying goodbye and it would be great to see you all there.”

The 2023 format is slightly different with no downhill event, but enduro racing on Sunday September 17, and then cross country (XC) on Sunday September 24.

Phil let the Central App know there are already some interested parties in purchasing the race for 2024 and beyond.

“LInger & Die is good for the area and brings a lot to the region.”

Comments on social media describe Phil and the race as “legendary”; deserving of “massive respect”; “easily one of the best enduros in NZ in the best place to ride”; and say “what a huge impact these races have had on the NZ MTB scene”. 

Both enduro and XC races are held at Alexandra’s Matangi Station MTB.

Entries for Phil’s final hurrah as event director opened on July 21. More information is on the Linger & Die website.