Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Mountain Bike Marathon Returns, With Special Tribute To Passionate Rider And Mentor

This Labour Weekend, thousands of mountain bikers from around the globe will descend on Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest for the biggest Whaka 100 to date.

Now in its 19th year, the Whaka 100 has earned its reputation as the Southern Hemisphere’s most challenging and rewarding mountain biking event, but this weekend, some will be riding for more than just a title.

This year marks the launch of the Paul Gunn Scholarship, created to celebrate the life and legacy of Gunn, a passionate rider, creative mind, and tireless supporter of others in the cycling community. Gunn was 53 when he took his life on 27, July 2024 after a battle with mental health.

Gunn’s friends and family will be wearing shirts with his face paired with the words “Ride with Gunnie,” as they hit the tracks, acknowledging their friend, who spent his life encouraging others on the trails and tearing through Rotorua’s forests at great speeds.

The scholarship was established by the Whaka 100 team in partnership with Gunn’s family, to honour his vision and continue the work he valued most.

Each year, it will recognise two emerging riders under the age of 23, one female and one male, who demonstrate promise, dedication, and a genuine love for mountain biking.

Each recipient will receive a $4,500 package, including $2000 cash and entries across the Nduro MTB event portfolio to support their development and strengthen their riding journey.

"Paul was always very interested in up-and-coming young athletes. He loved to share his expertise, and if anybody asked, he was so willing to help, especially younger people," says his mother, Cherrill.

"This scholarship is a way to give young riders a leg-up to pursue their dreams. That's what Paul would have wanted."

The scholarship finalists are Kayley McMillian, Amelie McKay, Dulcie Copeland, Fletcher Adams, Levi Gear, and James Climo. Winners will be announced at 3.30pm on Saturday, 25 October.

The three-day festival kicks off on Friday, 24 October, and features six races: Giant Miler (173km), Shimano 100km, Rotorua Canopy Tours 50km, Stan’s 25km, That’s It 10km Fun Ride and the Kids 5km Fun Ride.

Among those taking part will be youngest competitor, four-year-old Harvey Lette, and oldest, 77-year-old Trevor Swindells – two riders separated by 73 years but united by a passion for riding.

Harvey's mountain biking journey began before he could even walk, strapped to the front of Charelle’s bike at just nine months old. At three years old, he’d ditched the training wheels.

“He’s small but mighty, our little Harvey,” says Charelle. “He’s just fearless, he’s not scared of a challenge. Anything involving bikes, that kid is there and into it.”

"The tracks for Whaka 100 are so great, and the atmosphere is incredible. Harvey can't wait - he's absolutely fizzing for it."

Though Swindells wouldn’t describe himself as “fizzing” for the race, he’s still an eager participant after 60 years of riding.

“I have an e-bike now that I’m getting older. My knees aren’t as good as they used to be, so my e-bike helps with longer rides,” Swindells says.

"It's hard going sometimes, but it's fitness. I just enjoy the freedom of getting out there and going at my own pace. There are so many tracks you can ride in Rotorua, and you can take your time or go like mad.”

This year, the Whaka 100 has also partnered with Cycling New Zealand to host to the Marathon MTB National Championships on Sunday 26 October, integrated into the Shimano 100km race.

From the event’s debut in 2007, attracting 150 participants, Whaka 100 has grown to more than 3,500this year.

Riders from around the world will take part including from New Zealand, Australia, New Caledonia, China, Taiwan, Japan, the UK, Puerto Rico, Austria, French Polynesia, the USA, and Canada.

Returning will be the sole female finisher of the gruelling Giant Whaka Miler (172km) Emma Bateup, eager to give it all she’s got and beat her time this year.

"The atmosphere is just insane. There are so many people down there supporting and cheering others on, it’s a great day,” Bateup says.

“The Whaka 100 is a ‘bucket list’ event for mountain-bike riders all over the globe,” says Event Spokesperson Matt Thompson.

“The event’s signature terrain combines endless single-track with relentless climbs and descents. It’s tough but rewarding. You won’t know whether to cry with happiness or pain. You’ll most likely do both.”

Event organisers have also continued to give back to the home of the event – Rotorua, volunteering time and funds to maintain local trails, with entrants also able to donate.

“Rotorua is a destination like no other with the forests, lakes, and stunning geothermal landscapes, all enriched by deep Māori culture. For more than 150 years, we’ve proudly welcomed manuhiri (visitors), and this Labour Weekend we’re excited to share the magic of our geothermal wonderland with riders and supporters from around the world,” Thompson says.

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