Garth Thompson and Kim Naude pedalled their way to the 2009 National Mountain Biking Championships on the longest local course ever used at Ferry Reach Park on Sunday.

Thompson won the Male division while Naude claimed a straightforward win in the women's race.

With many riders from the season's category 'B' championship moving up to compete in the Male 'A' category, it was point series champion Neil de ste Croix who stormed to the front. However, his normal guns-blazing speed was tested over eight tough laps. Behind de ste Croix in the early running was Dave Collins, a racer from the 'B' group proving his worth.

At the first major obstacle, a tricky section over a broken wall, Mark Hatherley fell and the field split up. Thompson, the pre-race favourite, could not be stopped from riding over Hatherley and into third when he began his charge.

He made his move on a climb soon after to create an instant gap.

On lap two at that same obstacle that took Hatherley out on lap one, Freddie Phillips also tumbled, allowing the top three to open up a larger gap.

But Thompson proved uncatchable and stormed home to take the national title for the second year running.

Hatherley placed second and a disappointed de ste Croix third.

In the depleted men's 'B' group, Scott Mello was the early leader but came under pressure from Charles Dunstan on the climbs before opening his lead on the way down. Ed Jordan suffered the first mechanical failure, losing his chain early on and was forced to retire.

Mello and Dunstan exchanged the lead several times before Dunstan's superior fitness told as he rode to victory. Alex Godfrey placed third.

Philandro Hill was another victim to the flying chain syndrome, his breaking at the furthest point from the finish line ensuring a long walk back for repairs.

Rickai Lightbourne took fourth place holding off Hill once he had rejoined.

Women's 'A' action saw defending champ Naude ride to a comfortable victory. Runner-up Sara Bonnett showed marked improvement from her early season form. showing she could be a force next year.

In the female under-12 group, Courtney Day took victory from Jessie Godfrey.

The boys' under 12 race went to form with brothers Daniel and Christian Oatley continuing their dominance to take first and second. Ryan Day placed third.

The day's other winners were Elizabeth Jordan (female 13-16), Sarah Jordan (female 'B') and Mark Godfrey (male 13-16).