Author: Jaime Black

World Cup 5 – Hafjell – Practice Day 2

As the climax of the Norway World Cup round approaches, riders had their final full day of practice. Overcast weather loomed, while the riders made late line decisions and showed off their ever-impressive race pace!

After claiming the title of 2013 World Champion, Rachel Atherton is just as fast this weekend. Here she sends it amongst the breathtaking Norwegian scenery.
After claiming the title of 2013 World Champion, Rachel Atherton is just as fast this weekend. Here she’s focused, before the breathtaking Norwegian scenery.
What's in the Atherton's water? Dan looks crazy fast through this flat corner on, definitely on the pace
What’s in the Atherton’s water? Dan looks crazy fast through this flat corner on, definitely on the pace! Both wheels in the air and leg out moto-style, this is the confidence riders aspire to hold on the bike!
The Hannah couple are both racing this weekend, but only Tracey took advantage of practice. Polygon has really staked its claim as a World Cup bike this season!
The Hannah couple are both racing this weekend, but only Tracey took advantage of practice. Polygon has really staked its claim as a World Cup bike this season, as have the Hannahs – we’ll be cheering loudest for our Aussie riders this weekend!
Greg Minnaar too, is flying off the back of a World Champs title. will this weekend be another notch on the bed?
Greg Minnaar is also flying off the back of a World Champs title. He’s definitely performing just as well as any other rider on the course. Will this weekend be another notch on the belt of 2013?
A big style check compared to Dan, but Steve Smith has his eyes on the prize. Stevie's riding on pace here in Norway, it's going to close racing tomorrow!
A big style check compared to Dan, but Steve Smith has his eyes on the prize. Stevie’s riding on pace here in Norway, it’s going to close racing tomorrow!
Wide open, sideways drifting is one way to keep your speed in check, but even better, it looks awesome! We'll see what those in the know think come racing.
Wide open, sideways drifting is one way to keep your speed in check, but even better, it looks awesome!
We’ll see what those in the know think come racing.

More excitement and action from Hafjell tomorrow. In the meatime, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos and exclusive content.

Facebook: Facebook.com/Downhill247
Instagram: @Downhill247

 

World Champs – South Africa – Elite Finals

Pietermaritzburg went off with a bang, full unexpected twists – like Sam Hill’s unfortunate crash and Mitch Ropelato losing it in the first turn on the 29er. The Aussie contingent continued to put pressure on the competition throughout the weekend, but Greg Minaar was too quick on home soil, scorching down the track and slipping in under Sik Mik’s nose. With a unique track came unique bike setups (for a Downhill World Cup); from 26″ to 29″, and single crown to full-blown DH double crowns. Tradition still stands proud, however, as the fastest on the day were 26ers!

So close to taking the win; stolen by three-tenths of a second. Sik Mik threw down with speed and style in his race run. A contender all season, Mik has the power and determination, can he pull it off as the cup comes to a close?
So close to taking the win; stolen by three-tenths of a second. Sik Mik threw down with speed and style in his race run. A contender all season, Mik has the power and determination, can he pull it off as the cup comes to a close?
Aussies littered the podiums in Pietermaritzburg, Hannah and Graves here sharing the moment of triumph with Greg Minaar.
Aussies littered the podiums in Pietermaritzburg, Hannah and Graves here sharing the moment of triumph with Greg Minaar.
The man of the hour (if you say it quickly it sounds like "Minaar" ), doing what every downhill racer dreams of - pulling off the win at home, amongst friends, family and a familiar crowd. Wheel, track and other debate aside, there's not much better way to describe this than 'Yewww!'
The man of the hour (if you say it quickly it sounds like “Minaar” ), doing what every downhill racer dreams of – pulling off the win at home, amongst friends, family and a familiar crowd. Wheel, track and other debate aside, there’s not much better way to describe this than ‘Yewww!’
A heavy crash out of the lower rock garden left Sam looking a little worse for wear. Unlucky this time, he'll surely be back, even more determined next time.
A heavy crash out of the lower rock garden left Sam looking a little worse for wear. Unlucky this time, he’ll surely be back, even more determined next time.
Jared Graves, riding his hot topic single crowns into 3rd place. After a lot of focus on his Enduro racing this season, Graves has got to be happy with the result.
Jared Graves, riding his hot topic single crowns into 3rd place. After a lot of focus on his Enduro racing this season, Graves has got to be happy with the result.
The Hannah couple have had a great season on Polygon Bicycles, and as the excitement for the last two World Cup rounds builds, so will the anticipation to see how Tracey and Sik Mik go. Here Tracey performs a fly-by with some serious style.
The Hannah couple have had a great season on Polygon Bicycles, and as the excitement for the last two World Cup rounds builds, so will the anticipation to see how Tracey and Sik Mik go. Here Tracey performs a fly-by with some serious style.
South Africa gave us a unique podium, showing off the cultural side of the event. While it's all about the racing usually, sometimes it's nice to stop and take in the surroundings. After all, the world cup is held in some incredible places. Winners are grinners..!
South Africa gave us a unique podium, showing off the cultural side of the event. While it’s all about the racing usually, sometimes it’s nice to stop and take in the surroundings. After all, the world cup is held in some incredible places. Winners are grinners..!
An emotional finale to the World Champs weekend for Minaar, certainly another big notch on his belt. It's this exact moment that all the hours, pain, sweat and training pay off tenfold.
An emotional finale to the World Champs weekend for Minaar, certainly another big notch on his belt. It’s this exact moment that all the hours, pain, sweat and training pay off tenfold.

Pietermaritzburg might be over for another year, but our coverage of the World Cup isn’t. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest, wherever you are. More World Cup news coming soon from Hafjell, Norway!

Facebook: Facebook.com/Downhill247
Instagram: @Downhill247

World Champs – South Africa – Junior Practice Day 2

As excitement builds for what lies ahead, Wednesday practice went ahead for juniors, including our Aussie contingent. The hardpacked, dry track won’t change dramatically between now and race day (unless the weather does), it’s time for riders to lock in their lines and get their head in the game. We’ve also seen a number of custom rigs for certain riders, notably Steve Smith on a prototype Devinci and the CRC/Nukeproof team on “country specific custom” rides. What will this mean come racing? All we can say is, these riders wouldn’t be doing it if they weren’t onto something. Lets see where this goes…

Florent Payet
A welcome change after the wet weather in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Pietermaritzburg’s predictable surface lets riders really open up. Here Luke Ellison sends his way down the mountain. After placing 2nd in the National Series, Luke has good opportunity here in South Africa.
Brent Smith, focused through the iconic lower section of the track. On a fast, dry track our Aussie riders are at home, which is an advantage come racing on Friday (Juniors only).
Caroline Buchanan
Caroline Buchanan is in a good position coming into to the event. Consistently performing in BMX racing, and now presented with a fitness-intensive trail…
We’re on the edge of our seat!
rockslq
Tegan Molloy and Danielle Beecroft are proudly running Australian Jerseys in the Junior Women’s class this weekend. Pictured, Tegan attacks a rocky section. It’s clear why the World Cup comes back each year to Pietermaritzburg, it’s a tough trail that tests endurance and pushes riders to their limits in speed and technique.
Tasmanian rider Ben Hill steezing it up on the Rocky Mountain Flatline. While downhill racing is a serious affair come race day, we know all riders all do it for the same reason: FUN. And what's more fun than a big whip?
Tasmanian rider Ben Hill steezing it up on the Rocky Mountain Flatline. While downhill racing is a serious affair come race day, we know all riders all do it for the same reason: FUN. And what’s more fun than a big whip?

Stay tuned for updates from Pietermaritzburg World Championships 2013.

In the meantime, check out our instagram page: @Downhill247

 

NSW DH 3 – Ourimbah State Forest

On a warm, sunny weekend 128 riders made it to Ourimbah to continue the RedAss DH series 2013. After some recent changes which cut out the infamous flat section, a fast, dusty trail was going to be a test of stamina for everyone. Many riders chose to ride shorter-travel bikes, including Elite Men’s fastest (by nearly 10 seconds) Brad Kelly. After a nasty crash, David Sharp was tended to and airlifted from the trail. After a welcome delay, and with Sharpy in mind racing continued smoothly; read on…

Ben Staggs (u19) warming up with some practice runs Sunday morning. Dry weather leading up to the race meant dust. Lots of dust.
Ben Staggs (u19) warming up with some practice runs Sunday morning. Dry weather leading up to the race meant dust. Lots of dust.
dh247-3
Harry Parsons holding speed into the lower berm sections. During racing racers were getting pretty tired by this stage; breathing heavy through the dust. Harry took the U15s title with a nice 5 second margin.

 

The dry, dusty trail held surprises for a few riders, the front was especially slippery through Ourimbah's textbook berms.
The dry, dusty trail held surprises for a few riders. Combine this with race speed, and well, here’s a likely fate.
An annual visit on the State calender, and the home of Rocky Trail Entertainment, Ourimbah is well known for its superb trail construction and varying features. All we need is the numbers of riders to make these events truly shine.
An annual visit on the State calendar, and the home of Rocky Trail Entertainment, Ourimbah is well known for its superb trail construction and varying features. All we need is the numbers of riders to make these events truly shine.
Andrew Crimmins (1) soaring through the lower rock garden, and looking fast through a section that had riders divided for line choice.
Andrew Crimmins (1) soaring through the lower rock garden, and looking fast through a section that had riders divided for line choice. Crimmins finished 3rd, following Josh Button and Brad Kelly. 

Ourimbah legend Brad Kelly went rough on the XC / Trail bike, but it paid off with a time of 3:15:31 - 9.93 ahead of 2nd Place Josh Button.
Ourimbah legend Brad Kelly went rough on the XC / Trail bike, but it paid off with a time of 3:15:31 – 9.93 ahead of 2nd Place Josh Button.
This time of year brings warmer weather, cool breezes and good sunny days. Perfect weather for mountain biking, so make the most of it and get out there! Here Wayne Froggatt sends his way to first place in Masters.
This time of year brings warmer weather, cool breezes and good sunny days. Perfect weather for mountain biking, so make the most of it and get out there!
Here Wayne Froggatt sends his way to first place in Masters.
The hecklers were out in force in the spirit of Crankworx. 'Hecklers Corner' grew infamous as the crowd got rowdy, but it was all with good intention, adding to the hype of racing. Or maybe it's just time to start practicing for World's in Cairns next year? We'll let you decide.
The hecklers were out in force in the spirit of Crankworx. ‘Hecklers Corner’ grew infamous as the crowd got rowdy, but it was all with good intention, adding to the hype of racing. Or maybe it’s just time to start practicing for World’s in Cairns next year? We’ll let you decide.

September 28 & 29 will be the NSW State Downhill Championships, held at Lithgow and run by Rocky Trail Entertainment. We’ll see you there.

For more photos, visit jaimeblack.com.au

 

 

 

World Cup 4 – Mont Sainte Anne – Finals

The 2013 World Cup Season seems to have clicked up a notch every round. With ever-growing in intensity of crowds, weather, hype and action, Mont Saint Anne was no exception. Wild weather seemed to hang eerily over the Canadian resort throughout the four day event, only adding to the drama come race day.
The 2013 World Cup Season seems to have clicked up a notch every round. With an ever-growing intensity of crowds, weather, hype and action, Mont Saint Anne was no exception. Wild weather seemed to hang eerily over the Canadian resort throughout the four day event, only adding to the drama come race day. Here Stevie Smith has the finish in sight, powering in for the win.

For many Australian fans this was one early Monday morning to look forward to; a 5am start with the Top 10 Women’s DHI streamed on Red Bull TV. While Rachel Atherton has dominated the series so far, and qualified first, an error at the top of the course and a crash in the lower wooded section cost her vital time, and landed her in 12th place. Emmiline Ragot came away with the win by 4 seconds with a fast, clean run ahead of Manon Carpenter and Floriane Pugin.

Emmiline Ragot took the win with style, and with Junior Men's teammate Loris Vergier taking 1st too, it was a great day for Team Lappiere on the mountain.
Emmiline Ragot took the win with style, and with Junior Men’s teammate Loris Vergier taking 1st too,
it was a great day for the Lapierre Gravity Republic team on the mountain.

As the Men’s race runs got underway, mechanicals and punctures littered the field, and even an unlucky broken wheel for ‘not Peaty’ Josh Bryceland. South African Andrew Neethling still held the hot seat with a time of 4:02:984, which held well into the Top 30, until Gee Atherton stormed through for the final dry run of the day with a 3:59:389. Then the sky opened up to make things interesting. It wasn’t long before the open areas were getting slick, slowing riders down in the top section and seemingly securing the win for Gee.

troy fulllq
After proving his worth in previous years as a Junior, Troy Brosnan has his foot firmly in the door, placing pressure on the world’s fastest and doing Australia proud. After qualifying 7th, Troy laid down a solid performance in his race run, but the change in conditions slowed the whole group down.
Dean Lucas took a close second in Junior Mens, three hundredths of a second behind Loris Vergier.
After a solid weekend of practice, and confidence coming into the event, Dean Lucas took a close second in Junior Mens, three hundredths of a second behind Loris Vergier. It’s easy to believe the future of Australian World Cup downhill is in safe hands watching these young guns ride!
There's no doubt there was hearts in mouths when Sam Hill stepped up to the start. After his mythical performance at Champery in 2007, and his building performance throughout his first season back from injury, it was very plausible that he could steal the win from under Gee's nose. Once again the wet weather stood its ground, but Sam put up a good fight to claim 3rd. And the words on Australia's lips are "one of these days..."
There’s no doubt that there were hearts in mouths when Sam Hill stepped up to the start. After his mythical performance at Champery in 2007, and his building performance throughout his first season back from injury, it was very plausible that he could steal the win from under Gee’s nose. Once again the wet weather stood its ground, but Sam put up a good fight to claim 3rd. And the words on Australia’s lips are “one of these days…”
As Stevie Smith hit the track the home crowd roared; as if they'd been silent all day. As he made his way down the mountain, with obvious speed and endless style, commentator Rob Warner took us back to Champery 2011, and got the Downhill world's hearts pumping.
As Stevie Smith hit the track the home crowd roared; they roared as if they’d been silent all day. As he made his way down the mountain, with obvious speed and endless style, commentator Rob Warner took us back to Champery 2011, and got the Downhill world’s hearts pumping as Stevie came in with a time of 3:58:485 and the win.
The grin of a well deserved winner, Steve Smith hasn't got long to celebrate before heading to Whistler for Crankworx. It's on with the job and onto the next race, but this win won't be forgotten quickly.
The grin of a well deserved winner, Steve Smith hasn’t got long to celebrate before heading to Whistler for Crankworx. It’s on with the job and onto the next race, but this win won’t be forgotten quickly.

 

The whole field is hungry for the top of the podium, and as the season progresses each rider gets even more determined. What will happen in Norway?
The whole field is hungry for the top of the podium, and as the season progresses each rider gets even more determined. What will happen in Norway?

World Cup 4 – Mont St Anne – Qualifying

A promising 2013 season and 6th in Qualifying suggests this will be a big weekend for Hill. He's got the speed, can he pull it off?
A promising 2013 season and 6th in Qualifying suggests this will be a big weekend for Hill.
He’s got the speed, can he pull it off?

Qualifying went well for Aussie riders with 6th for Sam and 9th for Troy Brosnan. Mitch Delfs and Bryn Atkinson rode 19th and 21st respectively, meaning plenty of Australian talent at the top end of the competition. Fastest on the day for the DHI class were Stevie Smith and Rachel Atherton. While the trail dries out and the weekend gets ever closer, the anticipation is building. Another event in an epic season of World Cup racing!

Qualifying one second ahead of Danny Hart, Stevie is showing his speed but still has to fight for the win on home soil.
Qualifying one second ahead of Danny Hart, Stevie is showing his speed but still
has to fight for the win on home soil.
Rachel Atherton is looking unstoppable this season with 3 wins from 3 races, first in qualifying means she is again the rider to beat!
Rachel Atherton is looking unstoppable this season with 3 wins from 3 races, first in qualifying means she is again the rider to beat!
That hip! Mic Hannah qualified 7th, showing he will be in the mix come Sunday.
That hip! Mic Hannah qualified 7th, showing he will be in the mix come Sunday.
Just behind Mic was Troy Brosnan in 9th on one of the schmickest looking bikes on the circuit, can anyone say baller?! Troy won his first World Champs here and has the support of his parents at the race this weekend, could this be his first victory?
Just behind Mic was Troy Brosnan in 9th on one of the schmickest looking bikes on the circuit, can anyone say baller?! Troy won his first World Champs here and has the support of his parents at the race this weekend, could this be his first victory?
Mitch Delfs snuck in to the top 20 with a 19th place, primed for a big result no doubt.
Mitch Delfs snuck in to the top 20 with a 19th place, primed for a big result no doubt.
A big Aussie contingent is on the ground this weekend, including junior Jackson Davis, who pulled out a super strong 15th in qualifying.
A big Aussie contingent is on the ground this weekend, including junior Jackson Davis, who pulled out a super strong 15th in qualifying.

Rain has again fallen here in MSA after initially looking dry, so with that comes another set of challenges. Check back soon.

Proudly powered by WordPress | Theme: Baskerville 2 by Anders Noren.

Up ↑