Back in full force for 2025, Crankworx began the year at the legendary Rotorua venue. Unlike last year, the athletes were treated to good weather and fantastic course conditions throughout the week. New Zealanders showed up and showed out during the event to give their favorite riders their support. 

Air Downhill started things off, and plenty of talent came out to compete. Yeti Fox Factory Team newcomer and former World Champion Camille Balanche raced her Yeti downhill bike for the first time and into third place in the women’s category. Her new teammates Richie Rude and Tyler Waite also warmed up quickly, taking second and third in the Men’s. 

Next was the Pump Track Challenge. Jackson Frew (Fox Racing) began his campaign for the 2025 King of Crankworx title with a win in the Men’s. Bailey Meares (Pivot Cycles) also had a great race, taking the bronze medal just ahead of Tyler Waite.  

While Slopestyle typically happens at the tail end of a Crankworx round, it was moved up this time, and the women and men took to the course for an exciting competition. Patricia Druwen (Rose Bikes) made her debut on the Crankworx World Tour and wowed the judges with the highest score of the day in the Women’s, earning her first-ever Crankworx gold medal. Maxxis athletes Natasha Miller (Commencal) and Robin Goomes (Yeti Cycles) also had tremendous runs, taking the silver and bronze medals for a Maxxis podium sweep. Unfortunately, top male Maxxis riders Emil Johansson (Trek Bicycles) and Erik Fedko (YT Industries) could not compete due to injury. 

With commentary by the legendary Rob Warner and co-host Eliot Jackson, the Rotorua Downhill race was absolutely thrilling. Camille Balanche and Louise Ferguson (Intense Factory Racing) added to their medal assortment with second and third place in the Women’s. Richie Rude ended up fourth in the Men’s. 

Finally, the Dual Slalom rounded out the first stop of the 2025 Crankworx World Tour. Former Queen of Crankworx Caroline Buchanan (Trek Bicycles) kicked off her year with a first–place finish. In the Men’s, Sam Blenkinsop (Zerode Bikes) and Richie Rude ended up in the silver and bronze medal positions. 

What a great first round of Crankworx action for 2025 – we can’t wait for the next one!