The vibes were positive at the finish line with competitors raving about the technical and flowy downhills, steep climbs and the epic views from Earnscleugh Station. 

Clyde born cyclist, Samara Sheppard Oceania and National Champion and her Australian Partner Kyle Ward continued their domination of the Mixed category extending their lead to over 12 minutes to Josie Wilcox and Ben Wilson. 

“You don’t get anything like that in Australia,” joked Kyle. “No one would show up! No, it was really good, the terrain out their is pretty punishing but he landscape is incredible.

"If you manage to look up when you are not so far in the box its awesome landscape to take in. To finish with the downhill track was awesome too.”

Mary Gary and Sarah Gilbert Ward (Powered by MitoQ) also extended their lead in the women’s teams event to 16 minutes over Erin Greene and Hannah Millar (Giro Giraffes) although they still looked strong to the end.

“It was pretty epic,” said Sarah. 

“Great scenery and really well marked course, which we always appreciate".

"We rode well.” Mary added, “I normally come here for holidays and get lost riding up there so it will be nice to race it!”

Erin Greene - photo AuthenicAs

Team MitoQ NZ Cycling project with Josh Burnett and Ben Oliver continued to reign in the Men’s field with a strong showing. 

“This stage is one of the hardest bike rides you can do in NZ,” commented Josh Burnett. 

“The climbs are long and steep. Tough day but fun and a good day for us!”

They lead by under a minute from Talley’s Cameron Jones and Matt Wilson, so it is all on for the final stage at Matangi Station tomorrow.

Ben Oliver (front) and Josh Burnett - currently in first place - Photo: AuthenicAs

Youtube - https://youtu.be/m7ExEXVBjZw

Results are here - https://www.sportsplits.com/races/the-prospector-mtb-stage-race-2022