We’ve been a bit quiet here at #AdaptMTB but it's been for a good reason! In 2020 we first reached out to the team who organise Crankworx Rotorua to see if we could work with them to facilitate adaptive athletes competing in the event, and also assist them with suggestions for making the event accessible for mobility impaired spectators. For those able-bodied MTB enthusiasts, usually the only way to see a MTB race is to scramble up banks and through forest to get a vantage point alongside a trail… something that’s close to impossible for those in wheelchairs or who may have limited leg strength.
An exciting announcement…
This year, we’re super stoked to announce that #AdaptMTB will be at Crankworx Rotorua! (5th - 13th November). As well as supporting a number of adaptive athletes who are competing (more on them later) we’re also working with the rad team at Crankworx Rotorua to make sure those with disabilities or impairments can access this internationally renowned mountain biking event.
If you struggle to get around without some assistance, no stress. There’s mobility transport and helpers around the venue so you can access prime viewing locations (AKA the best seats in the house!). Here you can see and cheer on our adaptive riders then stay to watch the pros throw it down later that same day. There’s a full week of events to watch - we’ll post more information about the key events you need to see closer to the time, so stay tuned for that.
Whānau-friendly Crankworx Rotorua
We reckon that one of the best things about Crankworx Rotorua (other than the epic racing of course) is its unique location on the side of Mt Ngongotahā at Skyline which creates a festival vibe. Make sure you allow time to hang out in the expo zone. The Crankworx Rotorua expo zone is basically an event in itself with local food trucks cooking up a storm, music, large screens to view any of the races you might have missed, epic MTB gear shops and great prizes up for grabs.
Basically, it’s where all the biggest brands meet in one place, giving you a chance to eye up some cool, unique bikes, plus meet your MTB heroes. Bring your tamariki as the kidzone pump track will keep them entertained while you finish their ice cream.
Meet us at the expo
Most importantly if you’ve got questions about adaptive mountain biking or just want to say hello to our #AdaptMTB crew, come see us in Expo zone 2 at site 52. You can meet the adaptive riders who are competing and check out their and other adaptive mountain bikes we’ll have on display*.
(*Please note this equipment is to view only, there won’t be an opportunity to try the equipment. For that you’ll need to come to one of our future Give-it-a-go events!)