Kiwi Stars Sweep Oceania MTB Championship in Christchurch

Anton Cooper couldn't have asked for a better start to his 15th year as a professional mountain biker. Racing on the same Christchurch trails where he learned to ride at age 11, the Kiwi star swept both opening rounds of the UCI Oceania Continental MTB Series with commanding performances.

Cooper didn't just win. He rode away from the field in the elite men's race, finishing the grueling six-lap course three full minutes ahead of fellow professional Sam Gaze. The victory was more than just a hometown triumph—it delivered crucial world ranking points that will secure his spot in upcoming World Cup events.

"These two results should solidify a spot in the top 40," Cooper said after his win. "We don't have too many races here so to do that and get maximum points is nice."

Australian champion Rebecca Henderson matched Cooper's perfect weekend with her own double victory in the elite women's division. The 34-year-old two-time world championship medalist opened a 13-second lead after the first lap and never looked back, finishing three minutes ahead of local rider Mary Gray.

For Henderson, the wins provided an important rankings boost after missing significant racing time last season. "I need a boost with my world rankings going into this year," she explained. "It is a fresh reminder to find the rhythm of how to race."

The Ripple Effect

These Oceania rounds represent more than individual victories. They're creating crucial racing opportunities for riders across Australia and New Zealand who would otherwise need to travel internationally just to compete at elite levels and earn world ranking points.

Henderson praised the collaboration between Kiwi and Australian organizers for expanding the regional racing calendar. She's already planning to return for the next Oceania round in Canberra after a two-week training stint in Spain.

The series also showcased emerging talent across multiple age divisions, with young riders from Taupo, Hamilton, Auckland, and Tauranga competing alongside established professionals. This pipeline of developing athletes signals a bright future for mountain biking in the region.

Cooper summed up the community spirit perfectly: "I love racing at home. It is a fun place to ride and race and the club do a great job." After two decades of growth since Cooper first hit these trails as a kid, Christchurch's mountain biking scene continues to produce world-class champions while welcoming the next generation.