Rotorua's Whaka100 proving popular with international riders

Jolanda Neff. Photo/Tomasz Swierczynski/Kross Racing Team

The Whaka100 has long been touted as one of the Southern Hemisphere's toughest mountain bike marathons and is proving popular with international athletes.

The 105km course takes in the world class mountain bike trails of Rotorua.

Elite world mountain bike champion Jolanda Neff will compete in the 12th edition of this race - a favourite in the women's field.

The 25-year-old Swiss athlete has been dubbed one of the superstars of cross country mountain biking.

Race director Tim Farmer said the event team was excited to have Neff on the start list.

"This is great for the event but even more amazing for the fans of Neff who will get to see her race in person."

Farmer said there was a continuous increase in international participants from all parts of the globe, in particular Europe.

Entries are coming in from around the world with 11 countries represented. New Zealand has the largest representation of riders, but Australia, New Caledonia and Singapore top the list from offshore

Farmer said the event was not just about the gruelling 100km event.

"We cater for all levels of rider with events ranging from 5.5km, 25km and 50km."