Hunting gold at The Prospector MTB Stage Race in New Zealand
Samara Sheppard checks in after racing The Prospector MTB stage race in Central Otago, New Zealand.
This race report has been provided by Samara Sheppard.
The Prospector mountain bike race held in Alexandra, New Zealand, is an exceptional event that attracts both elite competitors and masses of participants. The race is renowned for its world-class trails and drawing top-notch riders, including the current New Zealand national mountain bike champions across the marathon, short track, and cross-country categories.
Over the course of three days, the race covers a prologue time trial and two stages, traversing the hills surrounding Alexandra, as well as back-country areas that are typically inaccessible to the public. The trails boast technical grade 3 and 4 single track, stunning backcountry ascents, and breathtaking vistas – rich with gold mining history. The event is meticulously organised, with well-marked routes, ample support, and a lively atmosphere.
Kyle and I arrived a few days before the race to take advantage of the nearby trails in Cental Otago, including Roxburgh Gorge, Dunstan Trail, and Central Otago Rail Trail. We also indulged in the mouth-watering Central Otago stone fruits, wine, and real-fruit ice creams, thanks to the warm weather! As a bonus, returning to Clyde, where I was born and still have family nearby, made the experience all the more special.
On the first day, we tackled the testing 18km prologue, riding through dry, dusty, and rocky tracks that rewarded us with stunning panoramas from the top of the Alexandra hills. Kyle and I pushed ourselves to our limits, ultimately securing first place in the mixed team category.
The second day proved to be the most demanding, as we started from Earnsgleugh Station and traversed a total of 56km of technical terrain and lengthy backcountry climbs, with a total elevation gain of 2100m. Despite a puncture, we maintained our lead in the mixed team category and had an absolute blast.
The final stage, which began at Matangi station, was a formidable yet magnificent ride. We embraced the competition from additional riders who signed up for the new one-day Matangi Claim Adventure Ride. The race camaraderie among riders was fantastic, and we are thrilled to retain our mixed team category title, culminating in a memorable experience.
In the men's category race, Craig Oliver and Ethan Rose of Team Julbo – Akatrax claimed victory, finishing in an impressive time of 6 hours, 25 minutes, and 22 seconds. The duo held the Yellow Leader jerseys for all three days of the race, steadily increasing their lead and ultimately finishing six minutes ahead of second-place team NZ Cycling Project – MitoQ’s Ben Oliver and Eddie Adams.
Remarkably, Sam Shaw entered as an individual and rode fast, completing the three stages in 6 hours, 22minutes and 39 seconds. In the women's category, Priscilla Thompson and Mary Gray of Priscilla & Mary were the undisputed champions, winning all three stages and finishing with a commanding lead.
Alexandra is an ideal hub for the race, with numerous spots to relax and recharge after a hard day on the trails. Following each stage, all the participants gathered at Monteiths Brewery, where the lively race atmosphere continued. This is where the awards ceremonies were held, and where we could reflect on the amazing experience we had just shared while viewing the daily stage images and video recaps.
Any mountain biker looking for a challenge in a stunning landscape should not miss The Prospector. The landscapes sometimes make it feel like you’re cycling on the moon! Nevertheless, the aroma of thyme, abundant on Alexandra's hills bring you back to reality. The cycling community's sense of togetherness in pursuing their passion is truly something special. We can’t wait to experience it all again!