The world cup circus basking in the sunshine, the pits are actually to the left of this shot.
As Ice Cube would say today was a good day, a day that riders, photographers and spectators alike enjoyed. The sun was out in the beautiful French valley and riders got to hit the best track of the year for the first time. The day started off with B practice, this meant junior riders, females and male riders outside of the top 80 overall. Junior racing has been tight all year, with it being a French the pressure on French riders will be immense. One of the host countries best hopes for a win will be in the junior mena��s class and with Loris Vergier, however, none of the other juniors are going to let him have it that easy! In the elite field Team Lappiere would have to be one of the favourites across the genders as they have done quite a bit of riding up here this season. Maybe it will be a French domination if Emmeline Ragot and Loic Bruni claim victory?
Loris Vergier dropping off a rock near the top of the course.Taylor Vernon scrubbing, he is one of the juniors who could definitely spoil the French party.Aiden Varley is back and racing, this is his first World Cup since injuring himself earlier in the season.In the elite field it is anyonea��s guess as to who the victor will be.A lot of people are tipping this man, Sam Hill and Sam wasna��t hiding the fact he likes this course.1 and 2 plates in junior and elite respectively, both riders looking for a good weekend.The track finishes right on the edge of town.Connor Fearon with his new black on black Operator popping out of the woods into the sun before ducking back into the woods. One aspect riders commented on was how at speed changing between dark and light there was some hoping that they had aimed at the right place.Fortunately the chopper didna��t see too much action today.George Brannigan going for trick points!Number one on the plate and number one in timed practice, Josh Bryceland, along with Rachel Atherton for the ladies.Wild times, this is Sam Hilla��s team mate Mike Jones getting it on.Sam Blenkinsop making a berm out of thin air.Wyn Masters was getting into the spirit of France with baguettes featuring in his Wheelie Wednesday, here he keeps the front wheel on the ground approaching the speed trap.
Next up is qualifying, this will be a real indication of who has speed. Tune back soon.
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