New format attracts a record field of riders

Cape to Cape MTB celebrated its 10th anniversary last weekend, with a record 1800 riders taking to the trails across the region.

Riders started and finished the first leg of the event at Xanadu Winery on Thursday last week before taking on looped stages at Leeuwin Estate, Colonial Brewery and the Margaret River town centre.

Samara Sheppard defended her championship title, finishing first in all four stages to take the overall general classification title.

Runner-up Peta Mullens was close behind Sheppard for most of the four-day race, and received a time credit from Friday’s Fat Tyre Crit win, but she could not take the lead.

Swiss rider Renata Bucher finished in third place and Briony Mattocks came in fourth overall.

Brendan Johnston proved he was a force to be reckoned with in the men’s elite field.

Johnston was awarded the James Williamson medal and first place in the overall general classification, closely tailed by runner-up Tasman Nankervis.

Race director Jason Dover said the event was a great success, despite this year’s break from the point-to-point format.

“We had great feedback from riders even though we changed it up a bit this year,” he said.

“I think each stage was a highlight in its own right.

“The start line at the fourth stage in Margaret River was great and it was quite spectacular to see spectators lining the streets.”