New Zealand's South Island Series to stop at Coronet Peak

200 riders are expected to gather at the purpose-built Coronet Peak Bike Park January 4-6 for a round of the Subaru South Island Downhill Cup which will see experienced riders hurtle down the 1.6km of singletrack. Then, on January 5-6, cross country riders get their chance for a round of the NZCT South Island Cross Country Cup.

These two events, formerly part of the New Zealand's MTB National Series, are the precursor to the NZCT New Zealand National Championships.

Downhillers Sam Blenkinsop, Scarlett Hagen, Kieran Bennett and Nathan Rankin will be on hand. All have represented New Zealand at World Cup and World Championship events.

On the cross country side, confirmed competitors include up and coming juniors Alex McGregor and Samara Sheppard. The talented New Zealanders took part in the World Championships in Fort William, Scotland, in September 2007. They will be joined by international riders like Helene Valerie Fruhwirth from Austria.