ANTON COOPER WINS 11TH NATIONAL XCO TITLE

It was the fourth time that Cooper has claimed the title in Rotorua and his 11th elite title over 14 years, and is showing no signs of slowing up, as he is set to join a high-profile new professional team, Lapierre PXP Racing.

Cooper moved into the lead on lap three after a challenging pre-race but from there was never threatened, going on to win in 1:30.55, to be 1:24 clear of 2023 national champion Matthew Wilson from the Te Miro club.

Cooper had to call on his experience after a puncture in his warm-up some distance away from the start.

“I got a massive nail through my tyre and rim 15 minutes from the start and quite a way from home so had to call for someone to grab me. I changed the wheel just before the start so didn’t have much warm-up,” said Cooper.

“You get thrown these things. I managed to be calm which I guess is experience. I used the first lap or two as my warm-up and eased into things. Matt (Wilson) was strong on the first couple of laps. I knew he would be. I wanted to go on the third lap in the second half of the course where I thought I was a bit stronger. He clipped his pedal which opened a small gap and I got on the front and sent it up the climb and was able to get away. From there, I was smooth and consistent and focussed on not throwing it away."

“It was a challenging start to the day but in the end, I was happy with how I rode. You need to show some calmness when things don’t go to plan.”

Cooper is excited to join his new French-based team for the world series this year.

“New team, new bike. I feel good. Each year I feel a bit further away from the lllness troubles and I feel consistent with my health now. With that you can build form. It feels promising and I am looking forward to getting back to race the World Cups.”

Elite Men's Results:

1: Anton Cooper (Lapierre Racing, Christchurch) 1:30.55

2: Matthew Wilson (Te Miro MTB) at 1:24

3: Fletcher Adams (Hamilton MTB) at 3:03