The 2026 Crankworx World Tour is officially underway, and if opening day at Christchurch Adventure Park (CAP) is any indication, the season is going to be fiercely contested.
Crankworx Christchurch 2026
Crankworx Christchurch rang in the new season with fans, families, and outdoor enthusiasts coming into CAP, eager to shake off the midweek rain and soak up the unmistakable festival atmosphere. With sunshine returning and a stacked schedule ahead, the stage was set for a dramatic start.
It was fitting that the action began with the AirDH – one of Crankworx’s own creations and the newest addition to the Christchurch lineup. Rooted in the spirit of Whistler’s iconic A-Line, the discipline demands riders balance flat-out speed with precision airtime. On the Askin’s trail, named in honour of hero helicopter pilot Steve Askin who lost his life fighting the Port Hills fires in 2017, competitors attacked the flowing freeride terrain knowing early-season points were already on the line.
Sam Blenkinsop Returns to the Top
Former King of Crankworx and Christchurch local Sam Blenkinsop reminded everyone why he remains one of the sport’s most respected racers. With a composed yet explosive run, Blenkinsop claimed gold in 3:50.04 – his first Crankworx victory since 2023, when he also topped the AirDH podium in Whistler.
Behind him, the fight was nothing short of electric. Tegan Cruz (CAN), Sam Gale (NZL), and reigning King of Crankworx Ryan Gilchrist (AUS) crossed the line separated by just 0.33 seconds. The photo finish underscored how razor-thin the margins are at this level and set the tone for what could become one of the most compelling King of Crankworx battles in recent memory.
Ryan Gilchrist, determined to secure his third consecutive overall crown, started into the season with valuable points – but challengers like Tegan Cruz have made it clear they are ready to disrupt the dynasty.
Jenna Hastings Dominates on NZ Soil
If the men’s race was tight, the women’s race was decisive. Fresh off closing last season with AirDH gold in Whistler, Jenna Hastings (NZL) carried her momentum into Christchurch and delivered a statement performance. Clocking a 4:08.46, Hastings opened up a commanding 5.97-second advantage over the field.
Australia’s Sian A’Hern, returning from injury and surgery, showed grit and determination to take second, while Sabina Košárková (CZE) rounded out the podium – both riders clearly with their sights set on the Queen title this year.
Canada’s Emmy Lan, a product of the Crankworx and Kidsworx community in British Columbia, finished fourth in her first Crankworx race outside of Canada – a strong international debut that signals more to come.
Crankworx Christchurch 2026 – Air DH podium:
- Sam Blenkinsop (NZL) – 3:50.04 // Jenna Hastings (NZL) – 4:08.46
- Tegan Cruz (CAN) – 3:53.17 // Sian A’Hern (AUS) – 4:14.43
- Sam Gale (NZL) – 3:53.40 // Sabina Košárková (CZE) – 4:17.20
- Ryan Gilchrist (AUS) – 3:53.49 // Emmy Lan (CAN) – 4:21.75
- Tristan Lemire (CAN) – 3:55.51 // Sacha Mills (AUS) – 4:22.58
Full results: crankworx.com/results
About Crankworx World Tour
Crankworx is the ultimate experience in mountain biking. Born in Whistler, B.C. in 2004, Crankworx has evolved into a multi-stop international festival series. The Crankworx World Tour brings together the best mountain bike athletes to compete in elite-level competitions in a variety of disciplines. Crankworx World Tour festivals also host races for amateurs, Kidsworx contests for young riders, participatory events, and celebrations of mountain bike culture, all while showcasing amazing destinations.
Official website: crankworx.com
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