KRANK IT
Krank IT brings a high-energy cross-country mountain bike race to the pine-needle floors of Bottle Lake Forest Park, Christchurch. This event is built specifically to transition junior riders and women into the competitive side of the sport within a safe, fast, and undulating forest environment. By moving away from technical mountain terrain and focusing on the flowing singletrack of Bottle Lake, the race allows riders to focus on their speed and handling without the intimidation of steep alpine drops.
The series is a cornerstone of the Canterbury mountain bike scene, particularly for its unique focus on family participation. The inclusion of non-competitive categories for children as young as three ensures that the event village is a community hub rather than just a start-finish line. For more competitive riders, the "Avenues" and singletrack loops provide ample overtaking opportunities and a chance to test lungs and legs over multiple laps.
One of the standout features of Krank It is the dedicated "Mother and Child" team format. In these categories, the mother completes the first lap before handing over to the child, who takes the final leg to cross the finish line. This format prioritises the child's experience and "glory" at the finish, fostering a supportive and shared athletic experience between generations. Beyond the family categories, the event supports the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust, ensuring that every pedal stroke contributes to local emergency services.