I told myself not to expect too much from myself because Chris and I had only got our DH bikes built up on Thursday afternoon. But it didn’t work as I always expect a lot from myself and this resulted in me feeling pretty nervous yesterday before the final.

Considering the situation and being thrown into such a gnarly and greasy track, I felt pretty good on my new M9 and I was pretty sure I was riding well? It was my first race since the Aussie Champs in February in which I slid out  so I was feeling the nerves and anxious to get back into “race mode”.

I knew I had to hold it together to have a chance against these girls, although a few dissapointedly did not start(for good reason but we need more girls!), as there were some really strong riders on the start list.

I beat my confidence demons and put down a good run and was really stoked with my result. 2nd place behind Rachel Atherton Amazingness. The “Champ”,  Miranda, had an issue near heckle rock but finished with a podium in 3rd. Bummed for Manon who flatted, the young ripper would have posted a fast time, we are sure.

Womens Podium: 

Rachel Atherton Amazingness 3:34.45

Me 3:38.75

Champ 3:50.75

Ian Hylands photo http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Stevie-Smith-wins-the-Canadian-Open.html

Chris, unfortunately, had a mishap earlier on the track and had to do the roll of shame past the hecklers at Heckle Rock. Hecklefest was crazier than ever this year, someone even had a chainsaw up there…

Super stoked for Stevie Smith pinning it to win it for the Canucks.

Mens Podium:

Stevie 3:00.01

Neethling 3:01.52

Troy 3:02.68

Ian Hylands photo http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Stevie-Smith-wins-the-Canadian-Open.html

Check out Ian Hylands photos and report on Pink Bike.  There were other riders that threw down, check out full results here.

Next up, Garbanzo.