Description
Kia Ora my name is Tuhoto-Ariki Pene, Te Arawa whanui, and my dream is to be the first Māori Downhill Mountain Biking World Champion.
I was in a stroller when my parents built the first BMX track in Rotorua. I was riding that track when I was 2 and from there I travelled with my family in our bus to the BMX rounds in NZ. Over the years I have collected 7 National Champion Titles in BMX.
Early 2018 I claimed the NZ U19 National Downhill Champion Title in my first year of junior elite which was a huge confidence booster, just closely after losing my big brother Ihakara. It was a rough time for us all. With the right mental and physical preparation and support from everyone I raced all the national rounds, Crankworx (Rotorua, Innsbruck, Les Gets) and the World Cup circuit. I achieved multiple podiums in Crankworx. I also placed in the top 20 in 2 World Cups, and 7th place in the UCI Mtb World Championships 2018.
In April, 2019 I went over to Bright, Australia. I came home as the u19 Oceania Champion and won the fastest time of the day (including the elite riders). I then headed to the UCI Mtb World Cup circuit in August. Unfortunately as I was sick for the first 2 weeks I didn’t qualify for the world cup in Les Gets, France. I was unhappy with that result and I continued to train my heart out with my team.
At the world cup in Val Di Sole, Italy I was so stoked to walk away with P1 in junior elite men. At the following world cup on a challenging track I placed 3rd, and 3rd in the morning UCI Mtb World Championships in Mont-Sainte Anne, Canada.
When I returned home to Aotearoa I was fortunate enough to be awarded the Te Arawa Junior Sportsman award. In November I was invited to the NZ Maori Awards and I gratefully received the Te Tama a Ranginui award. Wrapping up a successful season for 2019.
To make my dream a reality, I know I have to put in the laps. This is where it gets expensive, and unfortunately I cannot afford the entire travel and race expenses. With your help I will be able to push my riding further towards my ultimate goal. I want to make my family, my supporters, and everyone proud. When I become a sponsored rider I will be able to help give back to my family and my community.
