NEWHAVEN College Mountain Bike Team made a powerful statement at the opening round of the 2025 AusCycling Victorian Schools XC MTB Series, with an impressive 40 student competitors representing the school at the Dromana College-hosted event.
Riders ranging from Prep to Year 10 made the journey from the Bass Coast to compete in the cross-country mountain biking event under sunny skies and ideal conditions. The large contingent from Newhaven included a strong mix of returning athletes and enthusiastic first-time competitors, all cheered on by a supportive crowd of family, friends, and coaches.
Among the standout performances was Hamish Dakers-Hock, who made a strong return to racing with a third-place podium finish in the Under 17 Boys category. His determination, race experience, and physical fitness were on full display.
Also continuing her strong form was Lucy Thompson, securing first place in the Under 15 Girls Novice. Known affectionately within the team as “Miss Consistent”, Lucy once again proved her dominance on the course and continues to be a positive role model for younger riders.
Evelyn McCabe gave a gutsy performance to earn third place in the Under 13 Girls Novice, while Eden Bennett, racing for the first time, took a commanding first place in the Under 11 Girls Novice — a fantastic result that highlights the depth of talent emerging from Newhaven’s junior female riders.
Additional commendable performances included Will Walker, who narrowly missed the podium with fourth place in the Under 11 Boys Novice, and Maxen Mills, who also placed fourth in the Under 15 Boys Novice category.
The next round of the series will take place at Lysterfield Mountain Bike Park on Sunday, June 22, 2025.
