Araxá, Brazil — Samara Maxwell made a historic debut in the elite ranks of the Whoop UCI Mountain Bike World Series this past weekend, securing a groundbreaking victory in the cross-country Olympic (XCO) round.
The 23-year-old New Zealand rider, competing for Decathlon Ford, had already impressed in Saturday’s short track race, where she finished as the runner-up. But it was on Sunday, during the XCO race, that Maxwell truly made her mark.
Crossing the finish line in Araxá with a solo performance, Maxwell became the first-ever elite woman from New Zealand to win a UCI XCO World Cup event. Her victory, achieved on her first attempt in the elite category, left her in disbelief.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet,” Maxwell shared after her win. “It’s the little things. On Monday, we did media and they asked for a celebration pose. I thought it wouldn’t matter because it wouldn’t be seen, and now it’s all over social media.”
Maxwell’s win came after a strategic move during the race. Her team manager had advised her to stay with the lead group during the early laps, especially given the hot and challenging conditions, with its punchy climbs. As the race approached its final laps, Maxwell received a signal to push forward.
“When we came into the feed zone with two laps to go, the team manager looked at me and said, ‘Now, go on the climb,’” Maxwell explained.
Wearing the Oceania champion’s jersey, Maxwell surged ahead on the climb, leaving the remaining six riders in the lead group behind. From there, she continued to extend her lead, ultimately crossing the line in a stunning solo victory.
Maxwell credited her preparation and technical improvements for her success. “I’ve been working hard on my downhill technical skills,” she said, referring to her extensive training ahead of the event.
Maxwell’s achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also a significant moment for New Zealand’s presence in elite mountain biking.