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More than 90 competitors in 12 categories took part in the event, with Nelson riders relishing home trail advantage with several podium performances. Practice, qualifying and racing all took place on the one day – testing competitors’ mental fortitude as well as their skills on the bike. Despite a year-long hiatus from downhill competition, Canterbury’s Sam Blenkinsop showed no sign of rust in the spokes, taking out the men’s elite category, while Nelson’s Louise Kelly and Jess Harvey claimed second in the women’s elite and masters 30-39 categories, respectively. Rotorua’s Robin Goomes proved unstoppable in putting 13 seconds between her and Kelly, as was Agata Bulska of Canterbury with her 40-second margin over Harvey. ....