Forty years ago, mountain biking was a fledgling sport with limited recognition beyond a small circle of enthusiasts. In 1986, Paul Kennett, a cycling pioneer from Wellington, revolutionized the scene by launching the Karapoti Classic, the Southern Hemisphere’s longest-running mountain bike event. This year, Kennett will once again stand at the start line of the 40th edition of the Gazley ŠKODA Karapoti Classic, New Zealand’s most iconic mountain bike race.
The Birth of NZ’s Mountain Bike Scene
Located in the rugged Akatarawa Ranges, 10 km north of Upper Hutt, the Karapoti Classic has been the catalyst for mountain biking in New Zealand. Over four decades, the sport has evolved significantly, yet Karapoti remains the ultimate benchmark for riders to compare themselves against past competitors.
The Course
The challenging 50 km course features a mix of 4WD trails, single track, river crossings, mud, and relentless climbs, testing riders’ endurance and skill. Notable sections include The Warm Up, Deadwood, Rock Garden, Devil’s Staircase, Big Ring Boulevard, and Pram Track—each as demanding as its name suggests.
Early Years and Growth
The first winners in 1986 were Tim Galloway and Anne Butler, who rode a 10-speed touring bike. Paul Kennett won in 1987, and his brother Simon became the first to finish under three hours in 1988. By 1989, the event had over 100 riders, and by 1995, it had grown to over 1,000 participants, solidifying Karapoti’s place in the sport’s history.
Karapoti’s Hall of Fame – Legends of the Sport
Many of New Zealand’s top riders have used Karapoti as a springboard for international success. Notable winners include:
Kathy Lynch (8-time winner) and Susan DeMattei, who were among the world’s top five female mountain bikers.
Rosara Joseph and Susy Pryde, both Commonwealth Games silver medalists.
Tim Vincent, a 24-hour World Champion.
Kim Hurst, the first local female champion and later a world 24-hour title holder.
Samara Sheppard, who set the women’s course record in 2019.
Anton Cooper, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist and three-time Karapoti winner, holding the men’s course record since 2014.
The Karapoti Classic continues to be a pivotal event in New Zealand’s mountain biking scene, attracting riders from around the world and remaining a testament to the sport’s enduring legacy.
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