Generations clash on the BMX Freestyle Park
Generations clash on the BMX Freestyle Park
There were many new faces and a lot of surprises today in the BMX Freestyle Park semi-finals. And of course, there was a lot of sick riding for a chance to grab one of the twelve spots in the finals tomorrow. Two 60-second runs, the best one counts, which means there is literally no room for error for these 24 talents competing in sunny Montpellier this Friday.
Right from the start, the local crowd gathered on the banks of the River Lez made their voices heard in support of some of their favorite riders, such as old friend Camacho, who blew his tire right from the start, or the return of Jack Watts, the enfant terrible of British BMX. And right from the start, there was an onslaught of huge runs and double backflips, with the level rising steadily through the heats despite a few bad falls, with many seizing their chance to join the elite by putting in their best performance of the season.
While some new faces joined the finals, such as the American Bryce Tryon and the British Reef Way (respectively qualified in 5th and 4th place), it was a trio of top contenders who made sure to advance while showing off their skills on the park. Back on the contest circuit, Declan Brooks took third place with a beautiful line punctuated by a huge air on the big wall, aptly named "cheese grater". Anthony Jeanjean, the hometown hero and member of the French national team, laced some big transfers, as well as a 720 bar on the table and an alley-oop flair 540 on the Chicago, cruising his way onto second place.
But in first position, one point ahead of the competition, it was Brandon Loupos, another FISE regular, who came back from injury with a drop flair to start with, a flip double whip down, and then a 1080 that had everyone in Montpellier screaming. With an always enjoyable cash roll and a flair 540 to conclude his run at the buzzer, the Aussie made his mark and is now the favorite, at least until tomorrow! These finals are not to be missed under any circumstances, so make sure to join us for what promises to be an incredible contest!
