The 23-year-old Josh Burnett (MitoQ-NZ Cycling Project) sprinted to victory at the 140 kilometer mix-surface Gravel and Tar race last weekend in New Zealand. Boris Clark finished 2 seconds back, with Tali lane taking the final podium spot another 16 seconds later.

With only 29 finishers, the demanding course and humid conditions took a heavy toll on the field of elite riders, but Burnett’s BMX, MTB and CX experience, plus as a former Tour of Southland winner on the road, helped him reach the top podium step.

“It was really nice to take the win. It is known as being such a tough race by all riders in both Kiwis and Australians, so I am really stoked to have my name on the trophy alongside some of the legends of the sport,” he told the Manawatu Standard.

In the women’s race it was Lake Taupo Challenge champion Kate McCarthy (Green Monkey), who defeated U23 MTB world champion Sammi Maxwell in a thrilling sprint finish to claim victory. Charlotte Clarke finished in third place 24 seconds later.

Complete 2024 Gravel and Tar results HERE.

Photo Credit: Gravel and Tar

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