Kiwi Stars Shine in Crankworx Rotorua 2025 Downhill Thriller
The second round of the Crankworx Downhill Series delivered high-stakes action at Skyline Rotorua, marking the return of Elite Downhill racing to this legendary venue. After two years at Whakarewarewa Forest, the RockShox Kārearea Downhill debuted a brand-new course, packed with steep descents, tight corners, and unpredictable terrain.
Kiwi talents Jenna Hastings and Lachie Stevens-McNab put on a dominant display, repeating their gold medal performances from the Redemption Downhill in Christchurch earlier this season.
Jenna Hastings Claims Gold in Women’s Race
Coming in as the top-seeded rider, Hastings delivered an aggressive and controlled run, securing victory with a commanding 6.259-second lead over Swiss rider Camille Balanche. Despite a challenging lower section that forced her onto the slower B-line, Louise Ferguson clinched third place, rounding out the podium.
Women’s Top 5 Results:
- Jenna Hastings (NZL) – 3:17.651
- Camille Balanche (SUI) – 3:23.910
- Louise Ferguson (GBR) – 3:26.000
- Lisa Bouladou (FRA) – 3:28.688
- Jess Blewitt (NZL) – 3:30.018
Lachie Stevens-McNab Thrills Home Crowd in Men’s Race
Local Rotorua rider Lachie Stevens-McNab delivered a lightning-fast run, clinching victory by 0.603 seconds over fellow Kiwi and former King of Crankworx, Tuhoto-Ariki Pene.
The fight for third was intensely competitive, with Matt Walker securing the final podium spot, closely followed by Yeti teammates Richie Rude and Ryan Gilchrist.
Men’s Top 5 Results:
- Lachie Stevens-McNab (NZL) – 2:50.949
- Tuhoto-Ariki Pene (NZL) – 2:51.552
- Matt Walker (GBR) – 2:54.330
- Richie Rude (USA) – 2:54.884
- Ryan Gilchrist (AUS) – 2:56.746
Rising Stars and Notable Performances
- Charlie Makea, Sam Blenkinsop, and Joe Millington finished 6th, 7th, and 8th, proving their technical prowess on the challenging new course.
- U19 sensation Tyler Waite stunned the crowd with a blistering 2:54.211 run, which would have placed him third in the Elite Men’s category—marking him as a future star to watch.
With Crankworx Rotorua setting the stage for an electrifying season, the Crankworx Downhill Series is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.
Stay tuned for full results and upcoming race action!