Stage 2: Race Report

Day three of the Shimano Volcanic Epic MTB Stage Race saw 300 riders from around the world take on their biggest day in Taupō. 

The Queen Stage, the most difficult stage of a multi-day race, was a 62km course with 1,495m of climbing. Two days in, riders had to stay focused and on the pedals far more consistently, testing endurance and mental resolve.

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Taupō and Craters MTB Park are near the shores of Lake Taupō, the caldera of the largest volcanic eruption on the planet in the last 70,000 years. Scars and signs of this activity still show, from epic landscapes to natural hot springs.

Grand Masters Men Pairs leaders Zimmer Frame Racing held their lead today.

Solo and pairs teams rode along the Waikato River before diving into the pumice-trails of Craters MTB Park. The park features for the first time for the Epic’s day in Taupō, after Cyclone Gabrielle devastated the park’s forests. Thanks to the efforts of Bike Taupō, the destination trails were cleared, rebuilt, and worthy of showcasing as part of the event’s curated tour of the region's best riding.

A few tunnels at Craters MTB Park were nothing compared to the 'dark bit' on Rotorua's Eagle Vs Shark.

"We're thrilled to host the Volcanic Epic's journey through Taupō.” said Amanda West, Head of Partnerships at Love Taupō. “This event offers riders a curated tour of the region's diverse trails, highlighting iconic spots like Huka Falls and Craters MTB Park. After last year's cyclone, we're delighted to have Craters back in action and eagerly anticipate riders' return! The event's ride-relax-repeat format allows participants to soak in Taupō's beauty before continuing their adventure. We're excited to showcase our region's unique trails and experiences."

Caleb Botcher of the Open Men's Solo category still had time for style while chasing leader Matthew Wilson.

The Tineli yellow Leader’s Jersey’s stayed safe with the current leaders. Kiwi’s were leading the men and women open pairs, with women leaders Lee B & GB on a solid 37min lead. Mens Open Pairs Soli Shaws managed to hold a near identical 1:21mins over their Australian rivals COMMTEL-ARA from yesterday. The Aussie mixed open pair Cycle Co-op Shimano held a 9:36min lead over kiwi young-guns Nah We Never Argue. See all of today's Stage and General Classification results here.

The weekend brings together 4 Stage and 2 Stage riders for the first time. Tokoroa’s Cougar MTB Park plays host to our shortest but by no means easier course of 35km and nearly 800m of elevation.