The Mammoth Jumps of DarkFEST 2023 and How To Watch
DarkFEST, the annual Freeride MTB event that takes place in Stellenbosch is all set for the week of 17-22 April. Here’s all you need to know.
This year’s rider list is absolutely stacked and includes the DarkFest veterans, big senders and some of the best women in Freeride. Three South Africans are part of the lineup, that’s Theo Erlangsen and Ike Klassen with a guest appearance on the cards for retired World Cup racer, Andrew Neethling. International stars include Sam Reynolds, Clemens Kaudela, Sam Hodgson, Kade Edwards and Kaos Seagrave. Bienvenido Aguado, Nicholi Rogatkin, Szymon Godziek, Daniel Ruso, Elias Ruso, Tom Isted, Adolf Silva, Reed Boggs, Matt MacDuff, Graham Agassiz, Daryl Brown, Thomas Lemoine, Paul Couderc, Brett Rheeder, Matt Jones, Johny Salido, Vero Sandler, Casey Brown, Chelsea Kimball, Robin Goomes, Vinnie Armstrong, Vea Verbeeck and Harriet Burbidge Smith.
An addition to the course this year is another record-breaking jump; the 110-footer! In case you were wondering, that’s a cool 33.5m. It’s a big distance for a moto. For a bicycle – which is far less stable in the air than a moto – it’s truly insane.
R220 will get you a ticket (see Quicket.co.za) to watch DarkFEST on 21 and 22 April, from 8 am to 5 pm. Spectating is not possible on the other ride days. Here are a few things worth considering to get the most out of the event. It’s always hot. So bring sunscreen, a hat or an umbrella and keep a bottle of water on hand! Food and beverages will be on sale throughout the day however the use of cash will be extremely limited and you’ll be required to pay via Snapscan or Yoko. Access to the course is not permitted. You’ll need to stick to the designated viewing areas and take instructions from the many marshals and assistants on hand. Don’t forget, limited edition DarkFEST bucket hats, caps and T-Shirts will be on sale at the door.
In Sam Pilgrim’s “Behind the Build” video, take a closer look at the second week of building and watch Andrew Neethling open things up as the riders test the run into the 110-footer.
| IMAGES: Ryan Franklin |