Cross-country: Nove Mesto Na Morave convinces all
Part of the World Cup calendar for the first time, the Czech event convinced all. The perfect organisation, great TV production and enthusiastic crowds, with as a cherry on the cake the win of the national hero Jaroslav Kuhlavy, had many considering the event as the best in years. Offenburg (GER) was lauded as one of the most technical courses of the series and came in second place ahead of last year’s elected winner, the Yorkshire Dalby Forest (GBR).
Downhill: La Bresse takes the top spot
La Bresse (France) who joined the World Cup calendar just two years ago was voted best downhill event of the season. The smooth organisation, unique atmosphere and the thousands of spectators that turned out for this event ensured its popularity within the mountain bike community. The short, old school track which renders tight results was also cited. Last year’s winner, the well established Fort William (GBR), also proved popular in second place, noted for its great loud, big and boisterous crowd and long demanding track. The small ski resort three hours north of New York City, Windham (USA), took third place with a particular mention for the excellent organisation as well as the welcome and enthusiasm of the local population and its local community support/work.
Four-cross: Fort William rewarded for its efforts
Ten years of World Cups / World Championships has seen Fort William rise as the most popular Four-cross event of 2011. The new track is providing great racing and clearly seduced everyone. Val di Sole (ITA) which in 2008 hosted the Mountain Bike World Championships, was also well liked and took second place. The Austrian resort of Leogang in third place is creating a buzz with its permanent track, designed by the German Four-cross rider, Guido Tschugg. Leogang will host next year’s Mountain Bike World Championships.
Every year, the competition for the trophy for the Mountain Bike World Cup’s best event is more intense and more closely fought. This is more than encouraging for the quality of the series’ events!