UPDATE: Mountain biking enthusiast Grant Lebbink has made headlines after purchasing a holiday home in Eden, New South Wales, fueled by his passion for the local trails. This significant announcement comes as Lebbink cheers on competitors during the thrilling prelude of the third annual “The Orca” event, part of the Quad Crown, taking place on September 12.
As riders navigate the stunning terrain of the Sapphire Coast, Lebbink, a seasoned 48-year-old mountain biker with over 25 years of experience, passionately supports fellow competitors. “You race within yourself. That’s all I can ask of myself now,” he shared, emphasizing the sport’s lifelong appeal and its role in his life.
The prelude, which saw 120 riders participate, included a time trial that determined handicaps for the weekend stages in Tathra and Eden. Lebbink expressed how the event fosters camaraderie, stating, “This is a little bit more of a social race… you have a mix – the elite and the people who are in it for participation.”
The event weekend has been described as “absolutely brilliant” by Quad Crown director Sally Hill, who reported excellent weather and prime trail conditions. The competition was fierce, with only a two-second gap separating the leaders after stage one. Hill noted that the Orca attracted a strong contingent of riders from Melbourne, Newcastle, and Sydney, highlighting the event’s growing popularity.
In a stunning finish, Cam Ivory clinched the overall win after closing the gap on leader Jon Odams. The competition was particularly notable as Odams and Liam Dooley finished with identical times, a rare occurrence in mountain biking.
In the e-bike category, former world champion Paul van de Ploeg took first place, while local rider Kate Mitchell triumphed in the women’s e-bike category, significantly improving her time from last year.
With beautiful weather and “mint” trail conditions, the event aims to attract more visitors year after year, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Sapphire Coast. As Lebbink settles into his new home, he embodies the spirit of community and passion that drives events like the Quad Crown, inspiring both seasoned and novice riders alike.
Stay tuned for more updates and detailed results from this exciting weekend of mountain biking.
