MTB

The Pioneer 3 Day Traverse Stage Race Launched Today For 2016

By Lagardere Unlimited

A new 3-day MTB stage race was launched today as part of the Pioneer 2016 event.  ‘The Pioneer 3 Day Traverse’ is a shorter stage race option for those looking to graduate from single day MTB races but who are not quite ready to jump straight into the full 7 Day Epic race. 

The 3 Day Traverse takes the best of The Pioneer and distils it down to 3 days of challenging, but achievable stage-racing. The 3 Day Traverse was created to cater to the demand for a shorter version of the race, and also for those wishing to ride solo. This new event ticks both boxes.


Photo courtesy of Lagardere Unlimited

Participants in the 3 Day Traverse will race for three days through the stunning Southern Alps alongside those toughing it out on the full 7 Day Epic stage race. Experiencing the challenge of racing day after day, mile after mile, and climb after climb.

This is no walk in the park however, as riders climb 7,358m over 219km of spectacular back country terrain.

The 3 Day Traverse competitors will begin their journey from the shores of stunning Lake Ohau on Thursday 4 February 2016, before continuing along the same route as the 7 Day Epic through to the finish line in Queenstown. A unique course offering the same exclusive access to private land and trails that the seven-day athletes will enjoy.


Photo courtesy of Lagardere Unlimited

Enjoying spectacular scenery and following the same journeys of our early pioneers, the course links together 219kms of farm tracks, NZ Cycle Trails, double and single track riding on a route that takes competitors through the best the Southern Alps has to offer. Accessing parts of the country that few will ever get to enjoy, soaring mountains, crystal-clear blue lakes and golden high country await!


Photo courtesy of Lagardere Unlimited

“We have received a lot of interest from riders looking for more than a single day challenge, but who were not yet ready to take on a full 7 day stage race. Some have commented that 7 days is too long to be away from home and work but they are seriously keen to be part of the inaugural event in 2016.  We also received feedback from riders keen to ride solo.  We want to welcome all these participants as part of the inaugural event, and hopefully in year two they will be inspired to line up for the full Pioneer 7 Day Epic,” said Dave Beeche, CEO of event company, Lagardere Oceania Unlimited.



The Pioneer 3 Day Traverse will be held from Thursday 4 February – Saturday 6 February 2016.

For entry details and further information on all race options for The Pioneer, visit www.thepioneer.co.nz