Emerson’s Whaka100 selling out in record time

Photo by Kurt Matthews

Entries have sold out for the 100km, 50km and 25km course options at Emerson’s Whaka100 with three months to go until the race on 25th October in Rotorua.

The event has fast become an iconic event in New Zealand mountain biking. The 100, 50, 25, 10 and kids 5.5km course options take riders with a range of abilities through some of the best single track in the world, providing a great contrast of handcrafted trails and rugged mountain bike bliss. 

The fourteenth edition of the Whaka100 is shaping up to be the largest in its history, taking place on Labour weekend.

94 per cent of participants are travelling from outside of Rotorua, with the event playing its part in assisting the Rotorua economy with a large number of people travelling to the event over Labour weekend.

Two-time champions Josie Wilcox and Tim Rush are returning this year, with potential to take a third win. 

Wilcox said she is looking forward to returning after having to pull out of the event due to an injury last year.

“The Whaka100 is one of my favourite races and each year I’ve managed to get a little faster. I think I was 12th overall in 2017, 8th in 2018 so it would be cool to finish top 6 in 2020. I kinda enjoy chasing the boys.”

Entries are still available for the women's 10km and kids 5.5km. The Women's 10km is all about getting out and having fun, all while riding on some of the best single track in the world.

The kids 5.5km is perfect for kids aged 5-10 years old. The course is set to provide an introduction to mountain biking events taking in some of Rotorua’s famous family-friendly trails.