Mountain bike champion to inspire at Coronet Peak

Mountain bike enthusiasts are in for a treat at Coronet Peak this summer when supreme downhill mountain biker Scarlett Hagen hosts a range of training sessions at the Bike Park.

The former 2004 Junior Downhill Mountain Bike World Champion and 2008 Oceania Champion will hold skill sessions from 8 January to 1 March.

Scarlett aims to analyze riders’ performance and provide personal feedback and skill development whilst teaching them different techniques to aid improvement.

Ski Area Manager Hamish McCrostie said Scarlett’s skill sessions provided an awesome opportunity for aspiring and advanced mountain bikers to learn from one of the world’s best.

“Scarlett’s passion for downhill mountain biking and her reputation within the industry makes attendance at these sessions a must for up and coming riders or anyone who wants to take their skills to a new level,” he said.

Scarlett says the sessions are designed to accelerate development and fast track improvement.

“I love inspiring others to reach their potential and I’m always amazed at how much people improve with just a few simple training tips.”

The sessions cater for all ages and levels from beginner to advanced. For $50 (plus lift pass) participants can choose to take part in either a two hour group session or a one hour private session.

Participants must have their own bikes with all the necessary safety equipment including their own protective wear.

Positions are limited so early registration is encouraged. Visit www.scarletthagen.com for more information.

The Coronet Peak Bike Park season opened yesterday (7 January) and will run until March 1. The park will be open 11.30 am till 7.30pm Tuesday through Sunday each week of the season, weather permitting. Closed on Mondays.

Coronet Peak Mountain Bike Season Set to Open

The Coronet Peak mountain biking season in New Zealand opens on January 7 with a new trail and new access to a favorite picnic spot complementing the existing downhill and cross country trails and mini park facilities.

The new trail has been provided by improving access to existing ski trails and is designed to provide an awesome riding experience for lower level riders.

Coronet Peak manager Hamish McCrostie says the trail work continues the development of Coronet Peak’s mountain biking facilities.

“The bike park is a great summer use of Coronet Peak facilities. Mountain biking is gaining in popularity around the world and it’s another way for people to get into the mountains and enjoy this recreation reserve. And, there’s no need to slog uphill as access back to the top is by Coronet Express Quad chairlift.”

Season pass prices for the park are unchanged from last year at $249 for adults and $199 for youth (there’s a $50 discount for holders of 2008 NZSki winter season pass types). A try-before-you-buy scheme means those who buy a day pass and decide to upgrade to a season pass can have the cost of the day pass credited to the season pass – as long as they do so on the same day.

The trails are open from Wednesday January 7 until Sunday March 1 daily from 11.30 a.m. till 7.30 p.m. except on Mondays, weather permitting.

Coronet Peak will host several mountain biking events during the season. The NZONE Ultimate Jump Brake Burner is a six hour endurance race and takes place on February 7. The National MTB series runs from 13 – 15 February and the Vertigo Chainless Downhill takes place on February 19.

Mr McCrostie says Coronet Peak is a great place to visit in summer, with or without a mountain bike.

‘Visitors and locals should come and enjoy the base facilities and spectacular views. Sightseeing passes are on offer for those who want to ride the chair for spectacular views of the Southern Alps and the Wakatipu Valley. Food and drinks are available, there’s a huge sun deck and a giant chess set. It’s a great place to sit, enjoy the views and watch the action. And if you’re tempted to try the trails, Outside Sports offer bike rental on site.”