ELITE MEN’S DH

With two wins and two more podiums from the first four World Cup races of the season, Greg Minnaar certainly looks the man to beat in the downhill. The South African has been on fire on his Santa Cruz V10 29er and the big-wheeled machine is expected to run well again on a course like the one set up at Cairns.

But we all know that weather can throw a spanner in the works in Queensland and there is a strong line-up of challengers gunning for glory as well – most notably homegrown heroes Troy Brosnan and Jack Moir.

Brosnan, from Adelaide, is looking to add the senior title to his two junior World Championships. The Smithfield run could suit the 24-year-old perfectly – as highlighted by his second place at the 2016 World Cup event. NSW-born Moir, 23, proved he can mix it with the very best when he claimed a stunning second place at this year’s Fort William round of the World Cup. And Intense Factory Racing

have history of making a big impact at World Championships in Cairns (think Shaun Palmer in 1996!)

Elsewhere, expect American star Aaron Gwin to be in strong contention as he tries to finally break the jinx that strikes him every time the World Championships comes around. And after Mt St Anne - our money is on Gwin if it rains!

In stark contrast England’s Danny Hart has his sights on an amazing third Worlds title, even though he’s far less consistent on the season-long circuit.

Another European contender will be Loic Bruni from France who not only won the 2015 World Championships, but also proved his ability in Cairns by going fastest in the World Cup event at the course last April.