Swansea, Wales was the destination for some of the UK's best mountainbike downhill riders last weekend as they took on the challenge of Red Bull Downforce 2011.
Thirty-two riders arrived at the starting line in Swansea city centre, but after two heats of blistering downhill action in the qualifying round, only eight made it through to the final.
Here are some the photo highlights of the competition, as the riders were challenged with steps, terraces, narrow archways, grass verges and some of the steepest cobbled streets in the UK.
And they're off...
The eight riders with the fastest time went through to the final where there was only one chance for glory. The worthy champion was Rowan Sorrell, 29, from Newport, South Wales, who beat his closest rival Michael Thickens by an outstanding five seconds with a time of 02:15.81. Third place was taken by Nikki Whiles, who lost out on second place by a mere half of one second.
A delighted Sorrell said: "What an event! Red Bull Downforce brought mountain biking to the centre of Swansea and it was a great buzz for us all to race, especially with so many people out to watch and cheer us on! It's great to take first place."
It wasn't just the riders who had a blast though, world champion siblings Gee, Dan and Rachel Atherton were all in attendance, inspiring the riders and giving advice throughout the day.
Gee said: "It was a really good opportunity to show people what downhill mountain biking is all about. It's normally away in the hills and mountains and this brought it to their doorstep. Literally! They were really impressed. The riders looked truly shocked at how challenging and technical the course was. Amazing in an urban environment! It's awesome that Red Bull gave the opportunity for everyone to get involved as big events like this are often invite only. They were stoked to be part of it."
The unique safety features surely saw a bit of action on the above tight left hand bend in slippery conditions.
And as these images perfectly demonstrate, the Swansea city centre course is not for the feint hearted.
Once the fish eye lense comes out, a full crowd appears to cheer the riders on...
Someone needs a wash...
Another needs a drink....
And all together they await the results.
Red Bull Downforce 2011 results:
1) Rowan Sorrell 2:15.807
2) Michael Thickens 2:20.499
3) Nikki Whiles 2:20.920
4) Greg Hampton 2:21.644
5) Matthew Stuttard 2:21.810
6) Ben Baker 2:23.077
7) Gary Drake 2:23.185
8) David Moulson 2:29.531
Images © Rutger Pauw/Red Bull Content Pool
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