World No 9 ranked rider Anton Cooper made it nine wins in retaining the elite men’s cross-country honours at the Torpedo7 Mountain Bike Nationals in Christchurch.

Wellington-based Taupo rider Sammie Maxwell joined Cooper as a repeat winner in the elite race over the challenging circuit at Crocodile Park in Halswell, with the cross-country event hosted with the Christchurch Singletrack Club.

The conditions were made more challenging with a change to wet and windy weather during the afternoon which provided an additional test of riding skills.

Cooper, who finished sixth at the Tokyo Olympics, had his preparations restricted after breaking his wrist following an accident with a vehicle while training.

The Trek Factory professional had a battle with Rangiora brothers Ben and Craig Oliver in the opening stages. Ben Oliver led for the opening two laps but once Cooper pushed to the lead on lap three, he was able to stretch the bungy cord. He won the seven-lap test in 1:33:15 with Ben Oliver a minute back and brother Craig, making a return to the sport, a further 14 seconds back.

“It is always tough to win here. The level gets higher and higher,” said Cooper. “I started to notice the wrist from the third lap but to be honest, overall it didn’t hold me back today which was great because beforehand I was unsure how it would be.

“I felt the pace drop on the third lap and I took the front and pushed the pace. I got the gap and then l kept it steady from there and made sure I did not over-exert because this track can catch you out.

Cooper said he will return to the road bike now for a couple of weeks and allow his wrist to repair fully.

“It is always an honour to win this and excited to take the national jersey back to the World Cup circuit.”

Nelson’s Cameron Jones had an impressive effort in the conditions to finish fourth overall and claim the under-23 national jersey.

Maxwell enjoyed a breakthrough win at the same venue last year, claiming both the elite and under-23 honours, but was unsure of her form coming into this year’s race.

However the wet conditions turned to her advantage, showing superior skills as she buttoned off following a fall on the opening climb.

“It is a bit crazy. Last year I came with no expectations and it worked out the same this time,” said Maxwell.

“It was super-tough. I love riding in the wet. I didn’t have the fitness I would have liked coming into the race but I worked hard on my skills as a youngster.

It was super slick over the rocks and the roots. Coming in, I wanted the hole-shot and had a great start. I took the A Line on the first climb over the roots and absolutely ate it. I took a step back from that time and decided to play the long game because of the challenges with the weather.”

Maxwell is hoping her health can remain strong and hopes she can venture to race in Europe this year.

Mary Gray and Amelie Mackey, both from the local Christchurch Singletrack Club, completed the podium, four minutes behind.

The championships, to be staged under strict red light covid protocols, has drawn record entries with attention now turning to the downhill competition at nearby Christchurch Adventure Park on Sunday.

Cycling New Zealand said both venues are able to cope with the number of riders separated safely in defined groups with full covid protocols in place.

While no general public will be allowed to view the event, there will be live timing and a finish-line live-stream.

For all today's results head to: http://mtbnationals.nz/ 

Photo credit: CMG Sport