Friday June 17, 2011 at 4:37pm
First up were the Amateurs, taking their chances in what can only be called windy conditions. For a beginners section the guys didn't disappoint at all, with Jon Ritchie taking 1st place, Stuart Macey 2nd and Ryan Powley 3rd. All the riders showing promise for the future, guts and determination performing to such a large crowd.
Next up the Pro qualifiers, seeing Britain’s finest go head to head for a place in the final five. The athletes wowed the crowd with the greatest display of FMX skills we’ve seen in the UK since Battersea, let me tell you judging was hard.
The trick list was extensive, John Pearson giving the crowd the first backflip of the night, and Danny Veale pulling off a text book Shaolin.
But after an awkward crash scuppered Dan Whitby’s chances after what in my opinion had been the most exciting run of the night, the final five gladiators were chosen - Danny Veale, Samson Eaton, Dave Wiggins, Jamie Squibb and Chris Birch (Redbull X-Fighters).
After entertainment from Hanksy and the street bike freestyle team, fire breathing dancers,and Samson Eaton grabbing the best whip contest, it was crunch time…
The final five, each had only four attempts to prove their worth,with a gap of 80ft and two ramps to choose from.But with the wind getting stronger by the moment this wouldn't be an easy task for any of them.Every rider meant business,the stakes were high and so was the standard of riding.This was what we were all waiting for,it was so close,Kiss of Deaths, Lazy boys,huge whips,the guys had them dialled.
But after a smooth and stylish run from Dave Wiggins,a ridiculously gymnastic show from Jamie Squibb,and a huge backflipping performance from Chris Birch our winners were crowned.Congratulations to: 1st Official UK number 1, Chris "Sir Swampy" Birch, 2nd Jamie Squibb and 3rd Dave Wiggins.
The Bolddog FMX Championship has set the bar for the UK scene, with its superb organisation,awesome riders, entertainment,and a crowd which has been reported of up to 5,000 fans,this can only be the first of many events to come.
For more information, please visit www.bolddog.com or email info@bolddog.com