Rhys WIllemse heading to the World Cup

Hi All,

Just got back from New Zealand where I raced the Oceania Championships in Dunedin.

We landed in Dunedin on Thursday and I got to walk the track. I had heard alot about this track and was really looking forward to finally racing on a real Downhill track. The track was steep and technical and I was finally enjoying riding again.

Sunday morning was the seeding run. This is my first year of racing Elite, so I'm not expecting miracles just yet. I took it easy in my seeding run and managed to seed in 5th place. I was happy with that result and looking forward to pushing harder in the finals. The finals came around and I was feeling great. I took off through the timing gate and heading on down the hill, hitting everything perfectly.

My race run couldn't have been any better, except for one thing, my run was too perfect. It was a really comfortable run and in Downhill, if you want to make the podium, then you have to live on the edge. Your run has to keep you on your toes. Unfortunately this time I didn't make the podium, I finished 6th. 6th is still a good result considering I was racing against some of the best riders New Zealand has produced. I did manage to beat Justin Leov who is ranked 6th in the world, so all is looking good for the world cups this year.

I head off to Italy in 2 weeks, to go into camp with my Ancillotti team before taking on the best in the world at the World Cups. I will keep you all posted on my results overseas.

Cheers
Rhys

• By Allan H