Rachel Atherton goes hunting
Five-time world mountain bike champion Rachel Atherton chased down more than 100 riders at the Red Bull Foxhunt in the hills of Machynlleth, Wales, at the weekend.
The Mid-Wales rider – who gave the 155-rider field a headstart, as per the rules of the competition – made her way up to 40th in the final.
Katie Wakeley was the first down the course in two minutes 59.75 seconds, closely followed by Francie Arthur and Stacey Fisher.
Atherton said “It (the atmosphere) was so cool! What an absolute buzz!
“Everyone has the best run and I was coming down and all the girls were riding so well. They rode the best they’ve ridden all weekend.
“The atmosphere at the finish was 100 per cent stoke. We would all go and do it again immediately if we could. Loads of people have stepped up and raised their comfort level so yeah, I’m really proud of everyone”.
She went on to add: “It’s been a perfect weekend with the sun and the track is perfect with loads of line choice up there.
“Everyone has really pushed themselves and has massive smiles on their faces”.
Riders had to race over open grassland, woodland berms and technical rock sections before the sprint to the finish field.
Winner Wakeley added:“This is my first time doing it (Red Bull Foxhunt) so I’m really pumped to be here and riding.
“The format is awesome! It’s the first time I’ve ridden an event like this – it’s a one-off mass-start race.
“I’ve had a really good weekend and the weather has been so good this weekend. It feels amazing to win.”
