Race one-of-a-kind, competitors say

World-class talent was on show in the hills around Alexandra over the weekend during the annual Prospector MTB Stage Race.

It is the fourth year for the homegrown event, established in 2021 by local riders James Williamson and Phil Oliver, to showcase Alexandra’s mountainbiking terrain.

Commonwealth gold medallist, Olympian and national champion Anton Cooper took the overall win alongside international up-and-coming team-mate Ethan Rose in the men’s team category.

"It was redemption for Ethan and I today, taking the win finally and feeling strong going into the next period," Cooper said.

He said the unique tracks and a great group of competitors made for particularly special riding.

"It’s one of the best days on a bike you can have," Cooper said.

"You don’t get this vibe anywhere else in the world.

"You start on this beautiful station with the sun rising and you are ripping through those tracks."

Alexandra mountainbiker and recently crowned junior national champion Eddie Adams, 17, was at home on the local tracks, where he won the men’s individual category.

"It was amazing racing with Anton and the boys," Adams said.

"I knew I would be quick on the downhill sections here and my plan was to try and lead those guys through those techy lines."

While two flat tires spoilt his chances of an overall win, it was nevertheless "an epic day out there", Adams said.

Mary-Ann Moller came out on top in the women’s solo field which she said was redemption for races she felt she had not performed well in.

"I will definitely be back next year. This race is one of my favourites."

Prospector MTB Stage Race co-owner Lisa Hoskin said this year’s field of riders was full of talent, including some of New Zealand’s top riders.

"It’s one of the premier NZ events — we’re getting the riders that this sort of event deserves," Ms Hoskin said.

The event also attracted a lot of local riders who were taking part to enjoy time with their friends.

"The people who know Alex trails know that they’re ... some of the best riding in NZ but it’s unique riding as well."

A field of about 200 riders made 2024 the event’s biggest year.

This year’s edition also had the most registrations by women riders, Ms Hoskin said.

"Word’s getting out about how great a stage race this is."

The event received great support from local volunteers and sponsors, which made the event possible, she said.