The cross country championships will again be staged in the stunning surrounds of Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua, and forms part of the city’s annual bike festival.

While the Cannondale Factory Racing professional has his sights aimed at his European and North American season later in the year, the 20 year old has put more emphasis on the national championships, after losing the title to fellow rising star Sam Gaze last year.

Cooper goes into the race with a solid off-season build-up but also refreshed after going back to his roots during the summer. It could be far from a two-horse race in tomorrow’s crosscountry with a strong field including Rotorua’s Dirk Peters and Carl Jones and the teenage North Canterbury brothers Ben and Craig Oliver.

“I’ve been riding in a lot of events that I used to race years ago. It’s been so much fun, so relaxed and I’ve had the chance to catch up with a lot of people I’ve not seen for ages,” Cooper said. “It’s been good to also give a bit back as well and I have loved it.” 

It's now all business for Cooper at the weekend.

“I would like to be able to wear the jersey when I compete back on the world circuit for sure, but that is not going to be easy. I've probably prepared a little more specifically for this race and I know that Sam and I will continue to push each other not just in this race but the rest of the year which is good for us both.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Anton Cooper leads Sam Gaze at the Commonwealth Games mountain bike race in Glasgow.

Credit: Guy Swarbrook/Cycling New Zealand

Details: www.mtbnationals.co.nz