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The Shimano Volcanic Epic MTB Stage Race has burst into life ahead of schedule, with organisers bringing forward Stage two to stay ahead of an approaching ex-tropical storm. The decision delivered immediate intensity, with riders thrown straight into one of the most unique and demanding stages of the five-day event.
The Kaimanawa Descent, typically a highlight of the week, opened proceedings in spectacular fashion. Riders were transported by helicopter to the Patutu Tops at 1,673 metres before descending 23 kilometres of raw, remote singletrack through the heart of the Kaimanawa Ranges. But despite the net descent, the stage proved anything but straightforward.
Punchy climbs, exposed alpine terrain and fast, technical transitions ensured riders had to work from the outset, with no opportunity to ease into the race. The stage delivered early time gaps and set the tone for what is shaping as a highly competitive edition of the event.
The international presence was immediately felt, with American riders taking control of both the men’s and women’s solo General Classification after Stage One.
In the men’s race, Macky Franklin (USA) claimed the opening stage win in a tightly contested finish, edging out New Zealand’s Fletcher Adams (NZL) by just three seconds. The pair represent a compelling contrast, with world-renowned stage racer Macky Franklin bringing experience to the front, while young New Zealand talent Fletcher Adams continues to rise. Fresh off a third-place finish at the New Zealand XCO National Championships last weekend, Adams has carried that form into the Volcanic Epic, setting up an early head-to-head battle for the week ahead. 
Macky Franklin claims a 3 second lead after stage 1. Photo Clint Trahan
Macky Franklin (USA) said the stage delivered everything riders could have hoped for.
Rounding out the podium is Matthew Fairbrother (NZL), who comes into the event off the back of a remarkable endurance effort, recently completing a 500km ride in 24 hours by circling a McDonald’s drive-through. While unconventional, the effort speaks to the depth of preparation and resilience required to compete at this level.
In the women’s race, Syd Schulz (USA) delivered a commanding performance to take control of the General Classification after Stage One. Returning after finishing second overall in the 2025 edition, Schulz has made her intentions clear early, riding with composure and consistency across the demanding alpine terrain. 
Syd Schulz dominating stage 1. Photo Clint Trahan
Syd Schulz (USA) reflected on a standout opening stage:“That was such a fun day. Honestly, one of the coolest starts to a race we’ve ever experienced. The helicopter ride was wild, heading into the clouds was a little bit scary, but it just added to it. The trail was incredible. That descent is easily one of the best we’ve ever ridden anywhere in the world, and we’ve been lucky to ride in some amazing places. It’s something really special"
Behind her, Japan’s Maiha Takemura has made an impressive start to the week, securing second place and reinforcing the growing international depth of the event. Takemura’s performance positions her as a key contender as the race progresses. New Zealand’s Susannah Lynch sits in third, keeping herself within contention as the race heads into Stage Two.
Across the pairs racing, Stage One has already begun to define the early contenders, with strong performances setting the tone across all categories. In the men’s pairs, Team Spin Doctors (Tom Reynolds and Nick Harrison NZL ) have taken early control, delivering a composed and consistent ride to secure the lead. With over a minute separating them from Team iRide in second, they’ve created valuable early breathing room heading into Stage Two. The women’s pairs category is led by Team Pure Sports Nutrition (Tessa Aukje Dekker, Sarah Gilbert NZL), who produced a strong opening performance to establish a clear advantage. Their early gap places pressure on the chasing teams, with Team Michelle and Jess and Team Art Fetiche Racing set to respond in the coming stages. In the mixed pairs, Team Shell Pacific Nouvelle Calédonie (David Esposito, Caroline Favier, NCL) have made an immediate impact, leading the category after Stage One. Behind them, Team Maccas and Team Taranaki Tomtits remain within striking distance, setting up a competitive battle as the week unfolds. With four stages still to come, the pairs racing is already shaping into a contest of consistency, communication and control, where small mistakes can quickly turn into significant time losses. Stage Two shifts to Taupō on 26 March, where riders will tackle the flowing trails of Craters MTB Park. At 46.9km with 973 metres of elevation, the stage introduces a different challenge, moving from alpine backcountry to a fast, high-rhythm environment. With seeded starts and 99% singletrack, riders will be pushed into pace and precision from the outset, with little opportunity to recover. After an opening stage defined by raw terrain and early separation, Stage Two presents a new test, one where speed, control and efficiency will begin to shape the General Classification. General Classification – Men’s Solo (After Stage One)
General Classification – Women’s Solo (After Stage One)
General Classification – Men’s Pairs (After Stage One)
General Classification – Women’s Pairs (After Stage One)
General Classification – Mixed Pairs (After Stage One)
Full results can be found here Photo Credit: Clint Trahan |
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