Popular single stage Red Bull Defiance events back for 2018

Feedback on Red Bull Defiance’s single stage events encapsulated the Minaret Burn MTB as “a not-to-be missed rare chance to ride in what has to be some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery,” and the Skyline Traverse as an event that “should definitely be on any mountain runner’s to-do list.”


The popularity of these two single stage events, which debuted earlier this year, means they will run again in Wanaka next year on January 20 and 21, with entries opening on May 4.


The Minaret Burn MTB will challenge riders over a scenic 43km race and the Skyline Traverse will offer mountain runners a stunning 28km course – both are packed with some of the South Island’s most spectacular scenery.


Red Bull Defiance Race Director Sally Currie says the single stage events were an exciting integration into the Red Bull Defiance’s two-person teams’ event this year.


“To be able to provide locals and weekend warriors with the opportunity to participate in Red Bull Defiance, without having to take on the commitment of training for the big, two-day event, was an evolution that I really wanted to see happen.”


“We have had incredible feedback about the race and it’s hugely satisfying and rewarding to see more and more people be able to take part, by competing in the single stage events that are now on offer.”


Both events are unique in their own right. The Minaret Burn MTB offers a rare opportunity to mountain bike on one of the Southern Lakes region’s most spectacular working high country stations. Owned by the Wallis family for 20 years, it features a raw and true backcountry experience. Riders travel through a rural landscape, with mountains on their right and Lake Wanaka on their left.


River crossings, steep climbs and descents, plus a hike-a-bike section, mean it isn’t for the faint-hearted but the Minaret Burn MTB provides a real sense of achievement for those who love to ride.


The Pioneer mountain bike mixed category winner for 2016 and 2017, Queenstown’s Mark Williams says the Minaret Burn MTB was “a not-to-be missed rare chance to ride in what has to be some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery.”


“The riding was challenging and fast, with a great technical descent towards the finish. Thoroughly enjoyable,” Williams says.


The Skyline Traverse is similarly challenging, with a lengthy ascent followed by a technical traverse across the ridge line of Mt Alpha and Mt Roy. The course includes 1848m total vertical.


The 2016 World Adventure Racing Championship-winning team member Chris Forne, of Queenstown, took part last year and described the Skyline Traverse as a “stunning course, with a long enjoyable climb, followed by spectacular views along the tops and an intense high speed downhill.”


“To finish it off there is flat 5km-plus to the finish line to really test the legs. I really loved the alpine environment, especially the fresh dumping of snow along the tops, which added to the already great atmosphere. This event should definitely be on any mountain runner’s to-do list. I am super looking forward to coming back next year!” Chris says.


Entries open at 7am on Thursday, May 4 and there will be an early bird special. Entries are very limited for both events, so we do encourage you to get in early if you want to be a part of Red Bull Defiance 2018’s single stage events.

Find more information and to enter the single stage events go to www.redbulldefiance.co.nz
For updates follow the Red Bull Defiance Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RBDefiance
CAPTIONS Photos of the Minaret Burn MTB and the Skyline Traverse are free for editorial use.

Skyline Traverse 1 Please credit Red Bull Content Pool/Graeme Murray.
Skyline Traverse 2 Please credit Red Bull Content Pool/Miles Holden.
Minaret Burn MTB 1 Please credit Red Bull Content Pool/Graeme Murray.
Minaret Burn MTB 2 Please credit Red Bull Content Pool/Graeme Murray.