Mountain bikers and fans feel the rush
As day two of the biggest mountain biking festival in the world kicked off in Cairns, thousands of people flooded the Smithfield grounds holding cameras, nerves, and a great deal of excitement.
Crankworx has hit the Far North for the second time after the inaugural event in 2022 resulted in 10 million minutes of globally-broadcasted action and more than 30,000 visitor nights for local accommodation businesses.
On Thursday afternoon, a DJ blasted the bottom of the jumps and hyped up the crowd while spectators filled the finish line of the Speed and Style event.
Former Olympian and fivetimes BMX and mountain bike world champion Caroline Buchanan finished as the number
one qualifier in the women’s speed and style final event.
“I’m trying to push my own progression in a sport that is both about speed and skill,” Ms Buchanan said.
“I’m trying a new trick today, and if I pull this off, I’m going to be the first woman to do it.”
Ms Buchanan said the sport is not only welcoming of women on the track, but very supportive.
“It’s healthy for women for both sponsorship and endorsements,” she said.
“Through fundraisers, I’ve put more than $120,000 back into women in sport over the
past 10 years and it gives me pride to see the sport be so supportive.”
On another track, competitor Grant Allen was chasing the need for speed on three wheels.
Mr Allen is a pioneer for adaptive mountain bike riding, demonstrating that people
with all types of disabilities can enjoy mountain bike riding.
“I’m here with a group and we’re hoping to get people with disabilities involved in a sport that they can most definitely do,” Mr Allen said.
“We’re all working hard to do what we can, but ultimately I’d love to hit the downslope by the end of the day.”
Spectator Jamie Scarborough and his children travelled from Townsville to attend this year’s event.
“I came myself last year and thought there’s no way I’m not bringing the whole family this year,” Mr Scarborough said.
Thor Jensen, a budding 12year-old bike enthusiast from Cairns, was thrilled to be at the event with his friends.
“I’ve done a few faces myself, but I’m not old enough yet for this event … Hopefully one day.”