World Champs 2014 - Hafjell - Photo Epic Day 2

Sep 4, 2014 at 12:53
by Paris Gore  
Emmeline Ragot on the solitary ride up to her first run of the day.
  Emmeline Ragot on the solitary ride up to her first run of the day.

As the first light of day began to break over the hillside it was finally time to ride.
  As the first light of day began to break over the hillside it was finally time to ride.

Norway s no stranger to a bit of wealth but a Ferrari with a press pass in the front window We ve got to call bullsh t on that one...
  Norway's no stranger to a bit of wealth, but a Ferrari with a press pass in the front window? We've got to call bullsh*t on that one...

Some random guy s random bike getting prepped for a long day on the mountain by Jason Marsh...
  Some random guy's random bike getting prepped for a long day on the mountain by Jason Marsh...

As the Sun s rays made their way through the pines this morning the riders headed to the start.
  The women and juniors rider headed up to the start, as the suns rays made their way through the pines this morning.

It was a bit cold this morning and most of us wish we had come as prepared as the locals.
  It was a bit cold first thing and most of us wish we had come as prepared as the locals.

The morning light up top is lovely and golden.
  The morning light up top is lovely and golden.

Morgane Charre knows good style...and she knows how to win World Champs. The 2012 winning at Leogang could thrive on another hardpack course once again...
  Morgane Charre knows good style...and she knows how to win World Champs. The 2012 winner at Leogang could well thrive on another hardpack course.

Mannon Carpenter wasn t wasting time in the air getting sideways. She found the fastest way across the jumps.
  Manon Carpenter wasn't wasting time in the air getting sideways. She found the fastest way across the jumps.

Tracy Hannah s confidence has been gaining each week and she is looking quick here in Hafjell.
  Tracy Hannah's confidence has been gaining each week and she is looking quick here in Hafjell.

Someone forgot to tell Neil Stewart that it s World Champs not Whip-Off Worlds.
  Neil Stewart reliving a bit of Crankworx Euro Whip Off victory.

Kiwi junior Connor Hamilton tackles the inaugral booters full tilt with a tip of the hat to good style.
  Kiwi junior, Connor Hamilton, tackles the inaugural kickers full tilt, with a tip of the hat to good style.

Laurie Greenland does the honors over the big jumps in the golden morning light.
  Laurie Greenland does the honors over the big jumps in the golden morning light.

Casey Brown got sideways right out of the start house. Brown gets all of the style points for the women.
  Casey Brown got sideways right out of the start house. Brown gets all of the style points for the women.

Bernard Kerr didn t make the Worlds team but is sweeping the course sideways this week.
  Bernard Kerr didn't make the Worlds team but is sweeping the course sideways this week.

Tahnee Seagrave has become a regular on the podium this year and is looking to back up last years Jr. World Champ title with a medal in the Sr. ranks.
  Tahnee Seagrave has become a regular on the podium this year and is looking to back up last years Jr. World Champ title with a medal in the Sr. ranks.

Taylor Vernon styled out high above the Norwegian valley.
  Taylor Vernon styled out high above the Norwegian valley.

Casey Brown sending the jumps as big as the big dogs.
  Casey Brown sending the jumps as big as the big dogs.

Charlie Harrison is another American young gun looking to make his mark here in Hafjell.
  Charlie Harrison is another American young gun looking to make his mark here in Hafjell.

Luca Shaw will have the pedal to the metal this weekend. Will bigger wheels help give him an advantage against Maes and Vergier
  Luca Shaw will have the pedal to the metal this weekend. Will bigger wheels help give him an advantage against Maes and Vergier?

It took a few runs for most to get warmed up but by the close of the day everyone was riding wide open.
  It took a few runs for most to get warmed up but by the close of the day everyone was riding wide open.

Pom Pon is back and looks like she is riding strong.
  Pom Pon is back and looks like she is riding strong.

Taylor Vernon was throwing down the style right from the start of the day.
  Taylor Vernon was throwing down the style right from the start of the day.

Manon was working into it today rather than hitting the track full speed straight away. Expect her to pick up the pace over the next two days.
  Manon was working into it today rather than hitting the track full speed straight away. Expect her to pick up the pace over the next two days.

Pompon back from her injury and warming back up to the racing conditions.
  Pom Pon back from her injury and warming back up to the racing conditions.

Andrew Neethling throwing style on his first run of the day here.
  Andrew Neethling throwing style on his first run of the day here.

After a 2nd at Word Cup Finals Matt Simmonds is on a confidence high and it shows in his riding. Add him to the ever growing list of riders who could grab a medal on Sunday.
  After a 2nd at Word Cup Finals, Matt Simmonds is on a confidence high and it shows in his riding. Add him to the ever growing list of riders who could grab a medal on Sunday.

Ratboy followed deadly close by Peaty on the upper jumps.
  Ratboy followed deadly close by Peaty on the upper jumps.

Portugal s Francisco Pardal takes another canopy tour with the British Syndicates and the chance to unlock some big secrets of Hafjell.
  Portugal's Francisco Pardal takes another canopy tour with the British Syndicates and the chance to unlock some big secrets of Hafjell.

The Bulldog had no troubles smashing his way through the rocks and roots today.
  The Bulldog had no troubles smashing his way through the rocks and roots today.

Over there
  Over there!

Sven Martin took advantage of the break in practice to forage for blueberries like a bear then he lay down in them like one.
  Sven Martin took advantage of the break in practice to forage for blueberries like a bear, then he laid down in them like one.

Remy Thirion drifts it into the speed trap.
  Remy Thirion drifts it into the speed trap.

Aaron Gwin had a DNF in 2012 here and was injured this time last year. He s yet to wear the World Champ stripes on his jersey during his dominating career and looking for that title sooner than later.
  Aaron Gwin had a DNF in 2012 here and was injured this time last year. He's yet to wear the World Champ stripes on his jersey during his dominating career and looking for that title sooner than later.

After the fast open top bits it s off into the dark woods we go.
  After the fast open top bits it's off into the dark woods we go.

Mick Hannah had a rough comeback at Meribel but that s all in the past now as he looks smooth and fast on track in Norway.
  Mick Hannah had a rough comeback at Meribel, but that's all in the past now as he looks smooth and fast on track in Norway.

World Champs 2014 - Hafjell
  More a Japanese vibe traditionally, Loic spreads the peace of France at Champs.

Loic and Blenki comparing line speed as they reach the midpoint of the track. Blenki caught up with Loic by the next jump.
  Loic and Blenki comparing line speed as they reach the midpoint of the track. Blenki caught up with Loic by the next jump.

The French force on LP trucking hard in the Norweigen sun off the biggest kicker of the four.
  The French force on LP trucking hard in the Norweigen sun off the biggest kicker of the four.

Danny Hart got second here last year will he be a two time World Champ
  Danny Hart got second here last year, will he be a two time World Champ ?

Marcelo Gutierez and Troy Brosnan try their luck on opposite sides on the track.
  Marcelo Gutierez and Troy Brosnan try their luck on opposite sides on the track.

Many of the wooded sections are taped wide offering line choices to the left and right of the big trees.
  Many of the wooded sections are taped wide offering line choices to the left and right of the big trees.

Loic Bruni hungry for a win and knowing this track favors the lighter guys he could do well this weekend.
  Loic Bruni hungry for a win and knowing this track favors the lighter guys he could do well this weekend.

Sam Hill was taking those brilliantly insane lines today. His runs didn t quite look up to speed yet though.
  Sam Hill was taking those brilliantly insane lines today. His runs didn't quite look up to speed yet though.

Gee Atherton railing into the light and clearly one of the faster guys on track today.
  Gee Atherton railing into the light and clearly one of the faster guys on track today.

A few years ago there was a mix of rock and dirt in this last stretch of woods but heavy rain and floods have left it as rough as ever for World Champs.
  A few years ago there was a mix of rock and dirt in this last stretch of woods but heavy rain and floods have left it as rough as ever for World Champs.


Loic Bruni and Troy Brosnan were opting not to hit the gap here and there didn t seem to be much of a loss of time. Bruni was looking incredibly fast today.
  Loic Bruni and Troy Brosnan were opting not to hit the gap here and there didn't seem to be much of a loss of time. Bruni was looking incredibly fast today.

After a head injury at Crankworx sidelined Andrew Neethling in Meribel it s good to see him healed up and throwing down a bit of style here at World Champs.
  After a head injury at Crankworx sidelined Andrew Neethling in Meribel, it's good to see him healed up and throwing down a bit of style here at World Champs.

The Giant wrenches were hard at work getting the all-black stallions back into tip-top shape after a long day of abuse. Needles bike gets a rebuild despite spending half the day in the air.
  The Giant wrenches were hard at work getting the all-black stallions back into tip-top shape after a long day of abuse. Needles bike gets a rebuild despite spending half the day in the air.

Blenky in attack mode... we know maybe it would be more remarkable to get a shot of him taking it easy somewhere on the track.
  Blenky in attack mode... we know, maybe it would be more remarkable to get a shot of him taking it easy somewhere on the track.

Mick Hannah breaking the rule of thirds with his usual aggressive style.
  Mick Hannah breaking the rule of thirds with his usual aggressive style over the super-huck.

Wyn Masters rocking the Kiwi pride.
  Wyn Masters rocking the Kiwi pride across the grass.

Bryn Atkinson looking quite fast today and without a timed training session it will be difficult to get a radar on where everyone stands on this track.
  Bryn Atkinson looking quite fast today and without a timed training session it will be difficult to get a radar on where everyone stands on this track.

Gee looked like he was one of the quickest on track today. The GT staff were out timing sections and recording. No doubt lines will be cleaned up tomorrow and his speed will increase.
  Gee looked like he was one of the quickest on track today. The GT staff were out timing sections and recording. No doubt lines will be cleaned up tomorrow and and speed will increase.

The 2012 and 2013 champ digs into the bobsleigh turns entering the upper field section. Could we see a three-peat with Greg once again dominating on dry hardpack
  The 2012 and 2013 champ digs into the bobsleigh turns entering the upper field section. Could we see a three-peat with Greg once again dominating on dry hardpack?

George Brannigan was on the podium here in 2012 so we know he can go well in Hafjell.
  George Brannigan was on the podium here in 2012 so we know he can go well in Hafjell.

Neko Mulally was smashing rocks and riding aggressive all day. He wants nothing less than a podium on Sunday.
  Neko Mulally was smashing rocks and riding aggressive all day. He wants nothing less than a podium on Sunday.

More than once at World Cup as a non-racer you have to think to yourself have I ever actually ridden a bike properly ... It tends to happen when types like Brook MacDonald come by.
  More than once at a World Cup as a non-racer, you have to think to yourself, 'have I ever actually ridden a bike properly?'... It tends to happen particularly when Brook MacDonald comes by.

World Champs 2014 - Hafjell
  The Bulldog on the cool down, getting used to sitting upright again.

World Champs 2014 - Hafjell
  Ever the same drill at the races, but at Champs the bikes get an extra-specially deep daily clean and service to keep the micro-seconds at bay. The TWR rigs get their daily overhaul.

the UCI has made a ban on skin suits and it looks as if Gee Atherton is getting as close the limit without going over.
  The UCI has made a ban on skin suits and it looks as if Gee Atherton is getting as close the limit without going over.

Ratboy giving the mega stepdown some style.
  Ratboy giving the mega stepdown some style.

For a first day of practice today was flat-out mean. Be afraid for what is to come.
  For a first day of practice today was flat-out mean. Be afraid for what is to come.

What has this man got up his sleeve We saw glimpses today but not yet a hint of the full assault.
  What has this man got up his sleeve? We saw glimpses today, but not a hint of the full assault.

The gold and green figure and bike of Sam Hill camouflaging itself perfectly into the gold and green of the Hafjell terrain on the last run of practice.
  The gold and green figure and bike of Sam Hill camouflaging itself perfectly into the gold and green of the Hafjell terrain, on the last run of practice.

World Champs 2014 - Hafjell
  Why so angry?

Could Remi Thirion be the angriest man on a bicycle since Chris Kovarik Some of the most aggressive yet stealth smooth riding out on track today came from the Frenchman once again.
  Could Remi Thirion be the angriest man on a bicycle since Chris 'Karver' Kovarik? Some of the most aggressive riding out on track today came from the Frenchman once again. And it was all stealth smooth.



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Author Info:
parisgore avatar

Member since Oct 27, 2010
73 articles

118 Comments
  • 144 7
 That awkward moment you call bullshit, and Cedric Gracia steps out of his Ferrari :p
  • 25 0
 That is the Ferrari to Norways best masters xc rider Rune Høydal ;-)
  • 6 1
 I think someones jealous of someones Ferrari!
  • 4 2
 yeah it obviously not Cedric as its on a Norwegian plate
  • 11 0
 Also different Ferraris... That one's about double the price as CG's.
  • 23 2
 I was joking kids, settle down Smile
  • 6 0
 norwegian xc pays well Wink heheh
  • 11 0
 Well, I don't know if it's just the Norwegian masters' title that pays him. He was winning WC races back when the money in MTB was probably at its all-time highest (more or less the same time when CG was at the top or a little earlier).

Interesting trivia I've just learned about him: he's the only one besides Tomac who's won both XC and DH WC races Smile
  • 2 0
 Well if he's on the same level as Tomac then it's not a surprise he has a Ferrari. That's insane to be that well-rounded.
  • 3 2
 @tolddownhill13

That is a 458 Italia. Cedric owns a F430 or a 360 Modena I believe. I had a chance to drive a F430 around our local track here and they are amazing cars!!!
  • 22 2
 Stunning pictures, cant wait to see it all let loose at the weekend
  • 12 0
 I agree, the pics are top notch! And that "mega step-down"!!!!!!!!!
  • 4 0
 The picture of Loic cresting the hill is unreal. So much depth, and the way the tape leads you to him. Pretty damn 3-D. Amazing pic. Also a brilliant one of Minnar.
  • 17 2
 CLARIFICATION NEEDED! Every time someone mentions Myriam Nicole by her nickname, it's different. Can we please standardize it? Is it Pom Pom, Pon Pon, Pon Pom, or Pom Pon?
  • 2 4
 Why is she called Pom Pom?
  • 20 0
 She's called Pompon, no idea why though.

See here, look at the name on the back of her top
www.pinkbike.com/photo/9694080/?s6
  • 8 0
 Can we please spell it like that, always? Lol
  • 5 0
 Pompon. And without a particular reason probably. (Exception it sounds great with south french accent)
  • 4 0
 who knows.....A pom-pom – also spelled pom-pon, pompom or pompon – is a loose, fluffy, decorative ball or tuft of fibrous material. Pom-poms may come in many colors, sizes, and varieties and are made from a wide array of materials, including wool, cotton, paper, plastic, and occasionally feathers. ...
  • 22 2
 It's nom-nom
  • 3 6
 She looks squishy though as the name describes.
  • 2 14
flag wildmotionvideo (Sep 5, 2014 at 3:53) (Below Threshold)
 Pop porn?
  • 2 0
 'I think' I heard a few years ago it was in reference to this meaning "A small buttonlike flower of some chrysanthemums and dahlias" as she is small and pretty!
.... but don't hold me to it Wink It's Def a french term of endearment though.
  • 2 2
 Idiot
  • 15 0
 The pic of Ratboy on the "mega step down" is just mental
  • 12 0
 My new wallpaper: Casey Brown sending the jumps as big as the big dogs.
  • 1 0
 I bet for Ratboy sending the gap!
  • 12 2
 Great photos, thanks Pinkbike!
  • 13 3
 Brook looks like Moses in that pic.
  • 9 1
 I the same way that Ratboy looks like Jesus
  • 30 6
 Have you ever seen Moses? Has anyone? Oh religion...
  • 19 0
 Yep - clearly remember pictures of him in books at primary school. Looks a bit like Brook Macdonald.
  • 15 3
 he's not the messiah. he is a very naughty boy!
  • 5 2
 Jessus was naughty enough to start a whole religion!
  • 6 0
 Rebar to hold up caution tape! 3rd pic from bottom. Hang your head in shame World Cup for this unbuildable unsafe f-up. You cant even get away with this on a construction site without a plastic topper. The gold and green figure and bike of Sam Hill camouflaging itself perfectly into the gold and green of the Hafjell terrain, on the last run of practice.
  • 4 0
 The anticipation is killing me. This has been one of the best years of racing I can remember with the close points chase and multiple winners. It doesn't matter if its elite men or elite women or the juniors the racing is close and exciting
  • 1 0
 I agree, I think this is the best season a long time. There are so many contenders to pull for, and they're not the big names like Gwin, Minnaar, and Gee.
  • 7 0
 Im going out on a limb, i think its going to be Blenkinsops weekend!
  • 2 1
 For sure, this one is the right one...
  • 7 0
 "Have I ever ridden a bike properly." Classic.
  • 10 0
 So much truth in this statement..... having ridden with a couple of WC hopefuls it is soooooooooooo depressing that you know you will never be that fast, or brave, or stylish, or etc etc etc........... Ah well, still enjoying it at 56 years of age, injury free at the moment (tempting providence ?) and still trying to push hard.... will be glued to the comp on Sunday, would love to see the 'Rat' up there, but these are the worlds, one run, anybodys race..... end to a fantastic season ! I fu**ing love this sport !
  • 2 0
 Shame about Bernard Kerr not making it, despite a few recent top 20s. British Airways losing his bike was a bummer too. I would've put him on my Fantasy team for this race, if he were in it.

A lot of strong contenders able to take the men's win, but I feel Loic Bruni might lay down an amazing run. I wouldn't be surprised if Matt Simmonds put out a medal winning performance. I'd actually be excited if any of the guys who haven't won a Championship yet (junior's doesn't count), takes the win.

How's Gee looking? He looked to be in top form, about on par with Sam Hill, and he hasn't gotten all beat up this year.
  • 4 0
 Ratboy will be world champ this year
  • 2 0
 Man! Too many choices Gee cause it could salvage a disappointing year ( only disappointing for him) Gwin cause he is due and back not to mention got to cheer for my country man or Ratboy who is my fav. And on fire! Crossing fingers for any to be world champ but at the same time, if you don't get it be thankful you don't have to wear that hidious looking jersey! Just about any team gear looks better!
  • 6 0
 I'm calling blenki
  • 4 0
 So many favorites...I just hope whoever wins does it in a dominating way that we can talk about for the next year. Remember Danny Harts win?
  • 3 0
 Blenki is due for a win! Lapierre has the most exciting team, Loic will be tearing it up in a year or two.
  • 5 2
 Man, Blenki has the be "the incredible most photogenic mountaibiker". Side note: I would give one of my kidneys to see Jared Graves on his enduro bike taking a place in the podium again, literally.
  • 2 0
 Another fantastic set of photos, well done PB.

What is it about whips? I guess it's something primaeval in the male psyche, like boobs, I could stare at photos of people on DH bikes doing big whips over huge doubles all day long and not get bored...
  • 2 0
 What if it was pics of topless chick doing whips ? Mind blown..
  • 2 0
 I've seen some pics like that, although there was a disappointing lack of bikes in the photo...
  • 2 0
 Has there ever been a Worlds where there are like 10 guys who all have an equal chance of winning? Seriously, Gwin is back, Hill is back, Minaar won the last two, Gee is up there, the Rat, Brosnan, and theres still a ton more who could win!
  • 2 1
 Holy Crap!!! I've been away for a while, out riding moto. These pictures are brilliant! Kudos, photogs. Looking forward to riding Mammoth this weekend and coming home to watch the replay. Ratboy, Gwin, Bulldog, it's all good.
  • 5 0
 Hill, Rat, Gwin in that order
  • 3 2
 Come on! It's world champ! Blenky Hannah Minaar! Or Neko Ratboy Pradal! Or Masters Peat Thirion! Bill Rat Gwinn is waaaay too shy...
  • 2 0
 would love to see masters get on the podium!
  • 1 0
 Yeah Warner would be uber over on fire stoked look at the time my god words!
  • 2 0
 greg has not had the best of seasons...what with the surgery, the wrist and the car accident...but who knows...dry track...coming down the hill last....could we see a threepeat??
  • 1 0
 can never count him out thats for sure, always a threat, this track suits him too
  • 4 0
 this is the most beautyful photo report i ever see.
  • 4 1
 dumb question. wasnt stevie smith supposed to be back by now? thought it was just a "tweaked" ankle
  • 10 0
 Talked with Steve at the Eurobike show. Still on crutches and pretty dissappointed to miss Norway.
  • 3 0
 Okay a late night beer riddled change of plans! Who ever lives where beagles and calm chowder exist should take it all!
  • 3 0
 Check out the sneaky grin of the sheep in pic no. 9... It definitely knows something.
  • 2 0
 Has anyone noticed that two years ago there where only a couple of riders doing that huge stepdown. Now seems to be the most used line.
  • 1 0
 How are race plates worked out? Numbers don't seem to line up with last year's World Champs or latest latest World Cup standings?
  • 1 0
 Defending Camp 1st. then goes of the UCI rankings www.uci.ch/mountain-bike/ranking
  • 1 0
 To add there is no qualifications. All riders race in reverse order
  • 1 0
 I thought that but then Manon is no. 3. Are UCI rankings based on more than just world cups then?
  • 1 0
 and tahnee is 6 but she didn't race elites last year...so there is definitely some manipulation
  • 1 0
 @Bolders I think the UCI rankings are based on all UCI ranked events where you gather points, which would include various countries' nationals and others. I'm also guessing it's not just based on one year, but don't quote me.
  • 1 0
 Yea it's based on the current UCI overall points rankings, not just the World Cup standings. So the results of all types of other races are also factored in. But as someone above pointed out, the defending champ is slotted #1, then every else behind based on the UCI ranking.
  • 4 1
 sick pictures ! love the MTB
  • 4 2
 I heard red bull wasnt streaming it, if so who is and when? East coast times please!
  • 3 0
 i'll take the Ferrari and Sam Hill's rig
  • 3 0
 Pic of rat boy and peaty in the air at the same time is gold!
  • 4 0
 GO HILL_____O^O_____
  • 2 0
 I don't get it. Kerr didn't make the team yet he's still there? Enlighten me someone
  • 1 0
 Might be a reserve? He is also the team manager for pivot bikes if that makes any difference.
  • 3 0
 LOVE the shot of Needles
  • 2 0
 Just want to see Hill win ! It would be amazing.
  • 1 0
 STEVE PEAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FOR THE WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! don't be stupid pink bike users
  • 1 0
 Haha you drunk f*ck! How's interbike, f*cker?
  • 3 1
 Is Sven swiping through Tinder?
  • 26 0
 Norweign Tinder? RightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRightRight
  • 3 0
 Blenky FTW.
  • 3 1
 SAM HILL
  • 4 2
 I am very excited.
  • 4 3
 I;m just here for the comments
  • 3 1
 Sweet gallery of images!
  • 1 0
 Taylor Vernon - Invisible Wall ride
  • 2 1
 that is one massive pile of amazing photos!!
  • 2 0
 gee for the win
  • 1 0
 what's gaia in norway? that's the real name of the earth… awesome!
  • 1 0
 God I hope Minaar wins again.
  • 2 1
 Let's go Tahnee!
  • 2 2
 Anddddd…… NORWAY! I hat iphones
  • 2 1
 Come on Sam.
  • 2 1
 i scrolled down soooo many pics and was like "this is BS, where is Sam?" .. and then found him sitting in black and white .. LOL *relief
  • 2 1
 Come on Bernie K!!
  • 2 1
 SPORTS!
  • 1 1
 Casey Brown is literally flying.
  • 2 1
 Boy, now I'm excited !
  • 1 3
 NEETHLING FOR THE WIN HERE! MINNAAR in second , Loic in third, The Rat in Fourth. its not steep enough for Hill...
  • 2 1
 haha trust me.. its steep enough in the two forests!¨

just maybe not wet enough for him, but we'll see Smile
  • 1 1
 Right on mann
  • 1 2
 You guys and your envy (not the wheels) make me laugh.
  • 1 2
 Hahahahahahaaha
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