#Monster Energy #New Zealand #Lachie Stevens-McNab #Crankworx #Rotorua

Lachie Stevens-McNab Triumphs in Crankworx Rotorua Downhill

In an exhilarating weekend for mountain biking, Monster Energy's own Lachie Stevens-McNab emerged victorious at the RockShox Kārearea Downhill event during the Crankworx Rotorua festival, held in the picturesque Rotorua, New Zealand. This competition, which took place from March 7 to March 9, 2025, marked the second installment of the 2025 Crankworx Downhill Series and set the stage for elite mountain bikers worldwide to showcase their talents on the stunning Skyline Rotorua trails.

Unexpected challenges met the riders as they tackled a newly designed racetrack featuring steep climbs and rapid descents. Despite the pressure, Lachie, a 21-year-old local hero, showcased remarkable skill and speed, finishing with an impressive time of 250.949 seconds. His performance not only secured him the first position in the Elite Men division but also demonstrated his growing prowess in downhill racing.

The competition was intense, with other top competitors aiming for victory. Lachie managed to best his closest rival by just over half a second, a feat that reflects his dedication and training leading up to this prestigious event. Coming off a prior win in the Redemption Downhill in Christchurch earlier this season, his confidence was palpable as he raced down the challenging course.

In the Elite Women's division, Switzerland's Camille Balanche made a mark by claiming second place with a finishing time of 323.910 seconds. Balanche's adept racing techniques were also on display as she competed in the Air Downhill event, where she finished third. Her remarkable journey illustrates the competitive spirit of this year’s festival, drawing spectators eager to see the best of the best, where every turn and jump could change the outcome.

The 2025 Crankworx Rotorua also featured exciting slopestyle competitions, where 19-year-old Kaidan Ingersoll from North Yarmouth, Maine, shone brightly. He took home the second-place medal in the Elite Men's Slopestyle event, wowing the crowd by pulling off an intricately technical series of tricks. His final run included a breathtaking combination of spins and flips, emphasizing the high skill level required for such competitions.

This year's Crankworx event was not only an opportunity for athletes to challenge themselves but also a celebration of mountain biking culture. With hundreds of fans and bike enthusiasts showing up to support their favorite riders, the energy was infectious and added to the atmosphere. The camaraderie, shared experiences, and thrill of competition made this festival a must-visit for fans and participants alike.

As the dust settles from this year’s event, the spotlight remains on athletes like Lachie Stevens-McNab, who, through hard work and determination, have etched their names in the annals of mountain biking history. The excitement doesn’t stop here; fans are encouraged to stay updated on future events and ride the wave of adrenaline that comes with mountain biking competitions. To learn more about Lachie and his fellow athletes, visit Monster Energy’s official website and follow their journey on social media platforms.

The Crankworx series, known for pushing the limits of extreme sports, promises more thrilling events ahead, ensuring that every race is an opportunity for athletes to make history. As for Stevens-McNab, his win at Rotorua is just another step in what could be an extraordinary career ahead, full of potential, challenges, and triumphs, as he continues to represent Monster Energy stylishly and fiercely.