Sustainable Sport NEWS

Held at Rabbit Ridge Bike Resort in Gibbston Valley, Queenstown's first ever 3-6-12 hour race is set to attract over 200 riders from around the country building on the town's reputation as a biking mecca.

As the first of its kind in Queenstown, the race on 22nd February 2014 will accommodate beginner to advanced riders filling a gap in Queenstown's mountain bike racing.

Rabbit Ridge Manager Steve Norton said the event which would be an annual occurrence - was based loosely around the popular 12 hour relay race event in Naseby but with more accessible and achievable courses.

Norton explained "the three hour race is designed for beginner and junior riders wanting to challenge their ability or take on their first relay style race.

"The three hour race is a team only event, while the six and 12 hour courses are suitable for beginner to experienced single track riders.

"With the open flat terrain we have at our disposal the three hour course will be great for spectators and riders alike who'll still be a part of the 6 and 12 hour race atmosphere as the transition circuits are together.

"There'll be food and beverage tents and Gibbston Valley Winery facilities on hand creating a festival atmosphere for racers and support crews."

Officially opened in September 2013, Rabbit Ridge is the area's only year-round dedicated and serviced bike resort with a network of trails for all levels. In the last three months newly-built bermed trails have been added and there are now over 40 kilometre of trails to enjoy.

Norton added "the trails are in amazing condition after a winter of bedding in and plenty of moist days over spring to assist with trail building and maintenance."

Rabbit Ridge has already held a couple of races at the resort including the cycle leg of the Woman's Spring Challenge, with 1,000 ladies competing. The first Rabbit Ridge XC Series which features a long course for XC enthusiasts and serious racers, as well as a short course for social and beginner riders is also underway.

Norton concluded "longer term we envisage this 3-6-12 event could attract over 1,800 competitors and up to 3,600 support crew due to infrastructure in place and the land available.

"It's shaping up to be a 'must-do' on the summer racing calendar."

Gibbston Valley Winery Chief Execuitve Greg Hunt said it had been a "fantastic six months of riding" and that it was vital to the area that Rabbit Ridge developed cycling events to add to the region's credibility and grow the cycling tourism market.

"With the area's existing cycle networks and bike infrastructure the foundations are in place to grow the race series and help position Queenstown as a premier cycling destination.

"With a wide offering of cycle trails there are significant economic benefits to the Queenstown region.

"We've been overwhelmed with the positive responses we've had about Rabbit Ridge. It certainly adds another, much needed dimension to the area's biking offering and we'll continue to expand and develop over the coming year."

For prices, information and to enter the race visit