Red Bull Roast It turns up the heat today in Queenstown, New Zealand, with an amazing display of BMX dirt riding
Tuesday 5 March 2013, 2:43PM
By Red Bull New Zealand Limited
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Over 2,000 spectators flocked into Gorge Road Jump Park for the second Red Bull Roast It competition. 45 riders from around the globe all vied for the top honours, treating the crowd to a BMX dirt-riding spectacle.
When the dust settled and the riders votes were in, it was Mike “Hucker” Clark (USA) who walked away with “Best Rider” and a cheque for $5,000. Jed Mildon (NZ) took out “Best Line” and George Bolter (NZ) and Brandon Loupos (AUS) tied for “Best Trick.”
Mike “Hucker” Clarke (USA) was in unstoppable form and dominated the course in his heat and the final. His combinations across different lines coupled with his unique style proved he is one of the best dirt jumpers in the world today.
“It’s a dream come true, I came here injured and just planned on just staying safe and having a good time. To think that everyone liked my riding that much that they voted for me, it’s a dream come true,” commented Mike “Hucker” Clarke.
The jump park at Gorge Road is a unique BMX dirt nirvana that has evolved over the last 6 years into one of the premier dirt parks of the world. The Gorge Road maintenance crew set the scene today for one of the best dirt showdowns of the year. The attention to detail, dirt sculpting skills and what can only be described as love, create jumps that BMX riders dream of.
The “Best Line” competition opened up new lines never seen before at Gorge Road. Brandon Dosch made a double whip transfer that no local has even attempted before. Jed Mildon (NZ) attacked the course from the beginning and was determined to make a double transfer line across two huge gaps. After making the gap, he then threw down a 360 and a whip on the last transfer earning him the “Best Line” title.
“It’s an honour to be with all of the best dirt jumpers from around the world, to pick out the best line, land it, nail it and then take home the prize is unbelievable. I’m on cloud 9 right now,” commented Jed Mildon.
The “Best Trick” competition is rider judged, decided from the action within the 20-man super final, pushed the progression of dirt BMX to the next level. George Bolter (NZ) shared the honours with Brandon Loupos (AUS). George created a new transfer line with a 360 out of the big berm back into the course.
“Riding in Red Bull Roast It today was awesome. It was the best time ever, having a good time riding with my friends. I’m really surprised but so stoked to be sharing the podium with Brandon, he was so sick,” commented George Bolter.
Brandon Loupos (AUS) made an amazing cash roll into the central wooden structure aptly named the dragons back. “Riding in Red Bull Roast It was definitely a great opportunity. To come here and ride the best jumps in the world and to take out best trick with George was the best thing I could have asked for. I’m so stoked to walk away in one piece. I’m excited for next year” says Loupos.
Red Bull Roast It uses a relaxed jam format that encourages the competitors to feed off each other, pushing their riding to new levels. Today’s action at Gorge Road saw the best dirt jumpers in the world do exactly that. The locals and spectators alike were treated to a riding display nothing short of outstanding. Look out for Red Bull Roast It next year, which is sure to be back in 2014.