Perched above Lake Wakatipu and threaded with technical singletrack, the Ben Lomond trails at Skyline Gondola in Queenstown, New Zealand, are the proving ground for serious mountain bikers. The Peak Performance: Easter Race Development Program is a two‑day, coach-led clinic that converts scenic lines into measurable speed through bike set‑up, technique coaching, and timed sessions. Designed for riders aged 12 and up, the program runs Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00am to 3:00pm and meets at Lakeview car park - Isle street before loading to the trailhead.
On Day One coaches lead guided laps via Skyline, emphasizing suspension tuning, efficient body position, braking control, and line choice on steep schist benches, tussock slopes, and rocky ledges characteristic of the Ben Lomond ridgeline. Riders receive hands‑on bike setup work—sag, rebound and compression adjustments tailored to full‑suspension Enduro and Downhill rigs—and immediate feedback captured on photo and video. Day Two turns skills into race literacy with timed runs that expose pacing, cornering under pressure, and race awareness.
What sets this program apart is the measurable, outcome‑focused coaching. Small groups—maximum four riders—mean instruction is individualized and repeatable. Coaches use the Sport Sense analytics app to break down runs with frame‑level detail, giving every rider a clear path to improvement. Complimentary transport to and from the Skyline Gondola entrance removes logistic friction so time on the trail is maximized.
The terrain here is uniquely raw for the region: schist outcrops, steep alpine tussock and short rock bands demand precise line choice and bike confidence. Lake Wakatipu views and the alpine skyline provide both orientation and motivation; you’re racing against the clock with a panoramic finish line. Practical requirements include full‑face helmets, chest and back protection, knee pads, and a fully functional full‑suspension Enduro or Downhill mountain bike.
For riders who want to transition from fast trail laps to competitive starts, this program is a compact upgrade—melding mechanics, mental prep, and measured training into two focused days. The coaches’ emphasis on sustainable progression means skills are taught for long‑term development, not one‑off thrills. Whether you’re a junior racer sharpening tactics or an adult rider seeking to lower lap times on Ben Lomond, this clinic will sharpen your edges and leave you with footage, data, and a plan to go faster.
Bookings are handled through the operator’s FareHarbor page; the program includes pickup and drop‑off at the Skyline Gondola entrance with complimentary transport where required. Expect small-group pacing with a maximum of 4 people per session, focused video analysis, and tailored goal setting after each day. A 7 day cancellation policy applies. Bring charged devices to store footage and download Sport Sense data, and plan for rapidly changing alpine weather when choosing layers and tires and hydration.