Sam Blenkinsop and Katy Winton were too good for a classy field at one of the toughest races in the New Zealand. The Dodzy Memorial Enduro saw 280 riders tackle a brutal course at the Wairoa Gorge, near Nelson over the weekend. The annual race, in its sixth year, is held to celebrate the life of mountain biking legend James “Dodzy” Dodds, who was killed in a hunting accident in 2012.
Overnight rain made the notoriously technical course even more diabolical, and forced organizers to change one particularly difficult section of track which many racers found almost unrideable on practice day. Blenkisop went fastest at the shuttle-assisted three-stage race, finishing in 31 minutes and 4 seconds, while taking two of the three stage wins. Bryn Dickerson was about 40 seconds back in second, with Brook MacDonald rounding out the top three.
The women’s start list was stacked with top talent, but come race day several riders decided not to start due to the wild conditions and gnarly tracks. Katy Winton took out the category despite only winning one of the stages. She finished in 38 minutes 40 seconds, about 40 seconds clear of last year’s winner Harriet Harper. Mel Blomfield celebrated a birthday with a third place.
Though the racing was fierce at the fast end, the event is known for its social scene, with many riders more interested in catching up with mates, spinning a few yarns and riding the incredible trails at the Wairoa Gorge - which is exactly how Dodzy would have wanted it.
Pictured: What can we say about Blenki? His fourth DME victory.
Pro Men's & Women's Results
