Red Bull Rampage: The event that started it all, and it’s back in a big way with a new venue just across town from the first one. They traveled the world to find a new spot, but nothing compared to the sick terrain of beautiful Virgin, Utah. So after 4 years sabbatical, this groundbreaking event returned home for another round of insanity.
Practice days had Cedric Gracia and Robbie Bourdon busting some of the biggest lines first. Cameron Zink and Kyle Strait cut their own unique double drop line that got them both into the finals. To see video and read more about Miles’ trip …
Here is Miles’ Video:
After 2 days of practice and building, I should have known something was up when the coyotes failed to show for their usual nighttime serenade while I slept in the back of my car. Sure enough, a rainstorm forced a postponement of Saturday’s kick off of the official competition until the following day. I took that opportunity to get some static shots of the beautiful scenery, and in the afternoon got some riding in myself at the old Rampage site.
Sunday, The Qualifiers: The scene was set. The riders did some stunt work they were not able to do prior to the rain. The course was primed and the qualifiers began with much anticipation. Each rider got 1 run. Only 1 chance to make it or break it. Half the riders moved on to the finals the next day.
Monday, The Finals: The first half of the day was practice, which seemed a bit rushed considering the amplitude of the stunts the riders were hitting. Cam McCaul was the first one to hit the 65′ gap, catching the lip hard, but pulling it off. Some shovel work was needed to dial in the lines before the big event. Practice was extended some at the riders’ request. They probably could have used all day, but didn’t have it. The call for the riders meeting came, and practice was over.
The finals had some of the craziest riding I’ve ever seen. All the lines were off the hook. No exceptions. Huge crashes. 2 runs each. Thomas Vanderham got the Best Trick Award with his no-hander over the 65′ gap. Kurt Sorge exhibited some killer style, and shredded the course to secure a 2nd place finish. Canadian Brandon Semenuk had a totally solid run chock full of tricks, and walked away with the big prize.
This short film covers the event from start to finish. Enjoy. Check out the offical site for more.
mattlink
Shovelpick