Woke at 7:00 to another frosty morning. We thought we would do the early morning ride mission, and headed out to the forest at 7:30. This was not a good idea unless you have got some warm kit and long hair to keep your ears warm. Chief reporter Mike Carden made the unfortunate mistake of riding with one nylon, work sock and one woollen one. The nylon one didn’t perform and Mike had to call it a day early – which made my decision to head back a bit easier suffering frozen hands.
First stop was the media centre to pick up the free food before heading up the mountain. We then headed for the pits to get some words from the riders. Its good to see the mountainbiking community starting to turn up to this amazing event. If you’re not here yet get on the way.
The riders were looking pretty relaxed before seeding runs. We talked to JK about the weather and strategies for seeding. His theory was to just pin it as its not mountain weather and could rain at any stage throughout the day. Also if you had a good seeding and then muzzard your race run you could still feel satisfied. Johnny did lay it down for seeding and was highest placed Kiwi coming in 9th, which was 4.90 seconds off Rennie who seeded fastest.
VANESSA QUINN
PHOTO MIKE HILL
We spoke to Tracy Moseley who is looking a firm favourite for the women after seeding fastest, 3.29 seconds ahead of Sabrina Jonnier. Check out Mike’s interview with her. We also had a few quick words with her mechanic Paul – who had just received a text from Fabien who is definitely disappointed in missing the event. We also got the opportunity to talk with Nathan Rennie, who was looking forward to his seeding run – another interview for you to check out.
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