2012 Official Guide

2012 OFFICIAL GUIDE

world cup series

TM

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW RECORDS STATISTICS TRACK MAPS EVENT SCHEDULE TOP COMPETITORS 2011 SEASON REVIEWS Patrick Switzer on his way to victory in Italy. Photo Dave Kessler

FREE / LIBRE / GRATIS / VOLNÝ / LIVRE / FREI COMPLIMENTS OF OUR SPONSORS

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

1

2

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

3

4

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

5

TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

2012 OFFICIAL GUIDE Publisher / Editor

Marcus Rietema rietema_m@yahoo.com

Associate Publisher

Michael Brooke mbrooke@interlog.com

Art Director

Marcus Rietema Gravity Sports Marketing

Copy Writer

Marcus Rietema

Photographers

Dave Kessler Liz Kinnish Sharon Le Grange Pierre Gamby Gigi Lopatriello Scott Wippermann Manuela Perez Diego Cordenas Pedro Krause Conan Muniz John Longfellow Samy Ceolin Marcus Rietema

Advertising

Gravity Sports Marketing

Head Office

509 2nd Street Petluma, CA, 94952 United States GSMarketing@mail.com

SilvaKevin and Kevin Reimer racetoto the the line 2011 World Championships in Brazil. Photo KinnishKrause DouglasDouglas Silva and Reimer race lineatatthethe 2011 World Championships.

PhotoLizPedro

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Apr 20-22

Mt Keira Challenge

Wollongong, Australia

Apr 27-29

Newton’s Nation

Bathurst, Australia

Jun 27-Jul 1

Maryhill Festival of Speed

Goldendale, WA, United States

Jul 25-28

Kozakov Challenge

Semily, Czech Republic

Aug 3-5

Padova Grand Prix

Teolo, Italy

Aug 9-12

Peyragudes Never Dies

Peyragudes, France

Aug 31-Sep 2

Winsport Canada Cup

Calgary, Canada

Oct 13-15

Festival de la Bajada

Bogota, Colombia

Oct 19-21

Snake Skeleton Downhill

San Luis, Argentina

Nov 15-18

Malarrara Pro Teutonia

Teutonia, Brazil

Dec 7-9

Hot Heels Africa

Kogelberg, South Africa

Follow Us Online: TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

www.IGSAworldcup.com 6

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

www.facebook.com/IGSAworldcup

www.twitter.com/IGSAworldcup

photos:

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

jeff budr o

Check out clips of Scoot in action at www.youtube.com/sector9media

7

TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

Winsport Canada Cup Maryhill Festival of Speed

Kozakov Challenge Padova Grand Prix Peyragudes Never Dies

Festival de la Bajada

Malarrara Pro Teutonia Snake Skeleton Downhill

1

ROUND

Newton’s Nation

Hot Heels Africa

Mt. Keira Challenge

Mt. Keira Challenge

April 2012 April20-22, 20-22, 2012 Wollongong, Australia TRACK FACTS Course Length: 1.8 km (1.1 mi) Top Speed: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH:

New Course Not Established Yet

Street Luge: Classic Luge:

STA

RT

2011 Winners

Jackson Shapiera goes into Mt. Keira with the home track advantage. Photo Sharon Le Grange

DH Skateboard: Not Contested Women’s Skateboard: Not Contested Street Luge: Not Contested Classic Luge: Not Contested

Mt Keira is the birthplace and ancestral home of downhill skateboarding in Australia. Many of today’s top Aussie riders got their start on Mt. Keira. It's a twisty course with fast sweeping corners and enough gradient and natural obstacles to keep it interesting for everyone. Mt. Keira is located near Wollongong, a beautiful coastal city about a 1.5 hrs drive South of Sydney. The event is being organized by the Australian Skateboard Racing Association (ASRA) and features a $10,000 prize purse. Jackson Shapiera is still looking for his first World Cup victory after many visits to the podium in recent years. He cut his downhill skateboarding teeth on Mt. Keira and would like nothing more than to earn a victory on his home turf. It won’t be easy and he can expect a tough fight from all the World Cup Series regulars. Top contenders like Patrick Switzer, Douglas Silva, Mischo Erban and Kevin Reimer will be looking to get the season off to a good start with an early victory.

8

2012 IGSA 2012 IGSA WORLD WORLD CUP SERIES CUP SERIES OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE

Longboarderstore.com Patrick Switzer - 2011 IGSA World Cup Series Champion Photo Dave Kessler

Shirts Hoodies Skateboards Hats Stickers and much more!

Officially Licensed IGSA World Cup Series Merchandise

Goldendale, WA, USA June 27-July 1

peyragudes never dies

igsa world championships

Peyragudes, France August 9-12

START

San Luis, Argentina October 19-21

malarrara pro teutonia

START

festival de la bajada

Teutonia, Brazil November 15-18

Bogota, Colombia October 13-15 START

Hot heels africa Kogelberg, South Africa December 7-9

START

snake skeleton downhill

Semily, Czech Republic July 25-28

Calgary, Canada August 31-September 2 STAR

Teolo, Italy August 3-5

START

padova grand prix START

kozakov challenge

STAR

maryhill festival of speed

Bathurst, Australia April 27-29

T

START

T

NEWTONS NATION

STAR

START

Wollongong, Australia April 20-22

T

Mt. Keira challenge

www.Longboarderstore.com TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

TM

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES TM

9

2

ROUND

Newton’s Nation

April 27-29, 2012 Bathurst, Australia TRACK FACTS Course Length: 1.3 km (.08 mi) Top Speed: 105 km/h (65 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard:

Douglas Silva (BRA) 1:00.371 (2010) Katie Neilson (CAN) 1:06.056 (2010) Andy Lally (USA) 0:59.844 (2009) Andy Lally (USA) 1:01.555 (2009)

Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

2010 Winners

Reimer, Switzer, Kelly and Chapman in the 2010 Newton’s Final. Photo Pierre Gamby

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Kevin Reimer (CAN) Katie Neilson (CAN) Nick Duffield (AUS) Yvon Labarthe (SUI)

Newton’s Nation, Australia‘s gravity filled festival returns to the IGSA World Cup Series bigger and better than ever after a one-year hiatus. The race is part of a three-day music and action sports festival featuring many of Australia’s biggest bands. A whopping $20,000 prize purse will make Newton’s the richest race in downhill skateboarding history. Newton’s Nation is held at legendary Mount Panorama Raceway and features the iconic “Dipper” and “Forest’s Elbow” corners before launching the riders down the steep “Con-Rod straight.”

It is a daunting and difficult race course that pushes even the best riders to their limits.

Previous downhill skateboarding winners include Erik Lundberg (2008) and Kevin Reimer (2009, 2010).

Newton’s Nation will provide Live HD Webcasting of qualifying and the racing heats for the first time in 2012.

Coverage can be seen on www.IGSAworldcup.com.

3

ROUND

Maryhill Festival of Speed

June 27-July 1, 2012 Goldendale, WA, USA

TRACK FACTS Course Length: 3.5 km (2.2 mi) Top Speed: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Kevin Reimer (CAN) 3:06.424 (2010) Brianne Davies (CAN) 3:15.193 (2009) Matthias Lang (GER) 3:01.908 (2009) Yvon Labarthe (SUI 3:11.668 (2011)

2011 Winners

Konigshusen, Shikaze, Siegrist and Del Rosario-Rojas in the 2011 Final. Photo Gigi Lopatriello

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Ramon Konigshausen (SUI) Katie Neilson (CAN) Mike McIntyre (USA) Yvon Labarthe (SUI)

The Maryhill Festival of Speed is North America’s premier gravity sports event held on the iconic Maryhill Loops Road overlooking the Columbia River Gorge in Southern Washington. Competitors will battle it out in six-man heats down Maryhill’s 22 turn road course. The competiton is always fierce and any competitor who’s raced there will tell you that Maryhill is quite possibly the hardest race to win of the entire IGSA World Cup Series.

Past downhill skateboard winners include Scoot Smith (2007, 2008), Patrick Switzer (2009), Zak Maytum (2010) and Ramon Konigshausen (2011).

Maryhill will once again feature one of downhill skateboarding’s largest prize purses and for the first time in 2012, ColossoVision will provide Live HD Webcasting of qualifying and the racing heats along with athlete interviews. Coverage can be seen on www.IGSAworldcup.com.

10

WORLD SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE 20122012 IGSAIGSA WORLD CUPCUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

4

Kozakov Challenge

ROUND

July 25-28, 2012 Semily, Czech Republic TRACK FACTS Course Length: 3.4 km (2.1 mi) Top Speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Christoph Batt (SUI) 2:24.365 (2010) Dasha Kornienko (CAN) 2:46.550 (2009) Luca Santolamazza (ITA) 2:19.119 Michael Serek (AUT) 2:20.611 (2010)

2011 Winners

Switzer shoots the gap between Kowalski and Hertler in the Semi’s. Photo Dave Kessler

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Patrick Switzer (CAN) Katie Neilson (CAN) Mikel Echegaray (ESP) Michael Serek (AUT)

In the three years of Kozakov’s existence, the event has grown to become the most popular in Europe. First and foremost, the track is amazing with a nice blend of high speed straightaways, sweepers and tight hairpin corners. It’s known for pushing the racers to their limits. Kozakov has also achieved legendary status for their huge riders tent and the epic parties that go on inside it each night. With plentiful amounts of great ethnic food and famous Czech beer, Kozakov is Europe’s can’t miss event. The race has been plagued by torrential rain the past two years. so it’s been moved to late July in hopes of better weather. After two straight days of rain canceled riding last year, the course was shortened by removing the high-speed upper and lower straights to make it safer in wet conditions. The organizers , IGSA and riders were all happy with this arrangement and it will be implemented again this year if the weather turns bad to ensure that the show goes on.

5

Padova Grand Prix

ROUND

August 3-5, 2012 Teolo, Italy TRACK FACTS Course Length: 1.6 km (1.0 mi) Top Speed: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Ramon Konigshausen (SUI) 1:57.888 (2010) Katie Neilson (CAN) 2:06.852 (2011) Will Stephenson (GBR) 1:56.949 (2011) Michael Serek (AUT) 2:00.339 (2009)

2011 Winners

RT

STA

Switzer leads Tongue and Garant-Rousseau in last years Padova final. Photo Dave Kessler

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Patrick Switzer (CAN) Katie Neilson (CAN) Mikel Echegaray (ESP) Michael Serek (AUT)

The Padova Grand Prix began its’ life as an inline skate race but has become more downhill skateboard oriented with each passing year. Downhill skateboarding is Padova’s headline act these days. The course features two distinctly different sections. The steep, straight upper section where the riders reach top speed and the tight, twisty lower section where being able to pump your board “Slalom style” out of the corners is a huge advantage. Patrick Switzer is the two-time defending Champion and is favored again this year. The organizers and City of Teolo pull out all the stops for this event. Saturday evening is highlighted by a huge, Olympic style opening ceremony where the athletes are brought in by country carrying their national flags. This is followed by live entertainment and an amazing riders feast of delicious Italian cuisine. For the first time in 2012, the entire event will be live streamed on www.IGSA worldcup.com for the whole world to experience.

OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE 2012 2012 IGSA IGSA WORLD WORLD CUPCUP SERIES SERIES

11

6

ROUND

Peyragudes Never Dies

August 9-12, 2012 Peyragudes, France

TRACK FACTS Course Length: 2.7 km (1.7 mi) Top Speed: 110 km/h (68 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH:

New Course Not Established Yet

Street Luge: Classic Luge:

2009 Winners

Louis Pilloni won the last Peyragudes WC race back in 2009. Photo Scott Wippermann

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Louis Pilloni (USA) Bettina Luginbuhl (SUI) Yvon Labarthe (SUI) Kevin Bouaich (SUI)

Peyragudes is the race that never dies. The first Peyragudes World Cup race in 2008 was an overwhelming success with a fast, technical course, plus a beautiful mountain top village that offered posh condominiums at heavily discounted rates and three restaurants serving gourmet meals. In 2009 the event returned and was an even greater success. After the 2009 event, organizer Cyrille “Komakino” Harnay decided to take a break to devote more time to his growing family. Now, after a two-year hiatus, Peyragudes returns but this time on brand new road that didn’t even exist in 2009! It’s situated on the other side of the mountain and features more technical corners and the highest speeds this side of Teutonia. The village is considerably larger with more posh condiminiums at heavily discounted rates and ten restaurants serving the best meals in the Pyranees. Even James Bond was attracted to Peyragudes with the opening scene from the movie “Tomorrow Never Dies” filmed here.

7

ROUND

Winsport Canada Cup

August 31-September 2, 2012 Calgary, Canada TRACK FACTS Course Length: 1.5 km (.9 mi) Top Speed: 90 km/h (56 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Jackson Shapiera (AUS) 1:28.945 (2011) Katie Neilson (CAN) 1:37.177 (2011) Kolby Parks (CAN) 1:31.753 (2011) Frank Williams (USA) 2:00.339 (2009)

2011 Winners

T AR ST

Switzer leads Kelly and Pilloni in the 2011 Calgary final. Photo Scott Wippermann

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Patrick Switzer (CAN) Katie Neilson (CAN) William Condon (CAN) Kolby Parks (CAN)

Canada Olympic Park, site of the 1988 Winter Olympics is the host of the 11th IGSA World Championships.

Many described the 2011 event as the best event in history. The high speed, technical road is guaranteed to produce incredible racing. Spectator areas have a lively, party atmosphere with live bands, beer gardens, food concessions and Jumbotron screens, enabling fans to follow the action non-stop from top to bottom. The World Championships are downhill skateboarding’s biggest and most important event, so we expect the competition to be taken up a notch in 2012. This is the one race every competitor wants to win. Defending Calgary Champion Patrick Switzer will be gunning for his first World Championship title. Kevin Reimer will be chasing his third. Make plans to be in Calgary at the end of the Summer. If you can’t, you’ll be able to catch all the action via live streaming at www.IGSAworldcup.com.

12

20122012 IGSAIGSA WORLD WORLD CUPCUP SERIES SERIES OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE

8

Festival de la Bajada

ROUND

October 13-15, 2012 Bogota, Colombia TRACK FACTS Course Length: 1.4 km (.09mi) Top Speed: 85 km/h (53 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Kyle Martin (CAN) 1:05.250 (2011) Katie Neilson (CAN) 1:10.200 (2011) Walter Ribeiro (BRA) 1:09.300 Not Established

2011 Winners (Continental)

Juliano Cassemiro on his way to winning the Festival de la Bajada. Photo Manuela Perez

T STAR

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Juliano Cassemiro (BRA) Katie Neilson (CAN) Leo Borton (BRA) Not Contested

The Festival de la Bajada joins the IGSA World Cup Series after the big success of the 2011 South American tour stop. Parque Nacional Olaya Herrera in the center of Bogata is the location of the Festival de la Bajada.

It’s Colombia’s oldest national park dating back to 1937 featuring an urban forest and roads that wind around to different monuments and places of interest. The 1.4 km course is both fast and technical providing the competitors with a serious challenge. Plenty of rain fell on the 2011 event creating additional challenges.

Brazilian veteran Juliano Cassemiro won over a tough field that included Switzer, Stephens, Malaga, Kyle Martin and numerous other top riders. With all of the world’s top downhill racers expected to compete and the spectator friendly location in the heart of the city, the Festival de la Bajada promises to be a three-day skateboarding festival of epic proportions.

9

Snake Skeleton Downhill

ROUND

October 19-21, 2012 San Luis, Argentina TRACK FACTS Course Length: 2.2 km (1.4 mi) Top Speed: 85 km/h (53 mph)

Qualifying Records TM

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Douglas Silva (BRA) 2:08.760 (2011) Mariza Nunez (PER) 2:26.040 (2011) Leo Borton (BRA) 2:14.620 (2011) Not Established

2011 Winners (Continental)

ST AR T

2011 winner Douglas Silva will be the favorite once again. Photo Diego Cardenas

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Douglas Silva (BRA) Mariza Nunez (PER) Leo Borton (BRA) Not Contested

The Snake Skeleon Downhill takes place in San Luis near the center of Argentina . First held in 2011 as part of the IGSA South American Downhill Series, the event was very popular with both competitors and spectators alike. Spectators came out in droves with Sunday estimates of more than 2,000 in attendance. At 2.2 km, the Snake Skeleton course is the longest the IGSA competes on in South America. The track has a good mix of straights, sweepers and hairpins. Douglas Silva was the winner of last years race and his experience will make him a favorite again this year. There is a great deal of community support around the race with the citizens of San Luis very excited to have the world’s best downhill skateboarders coming to the region. Those who make the trip to San Luis can expect a healthy amount of autograph sessions, parties and fun along with a great race.

OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE 2012 2012 IGSA IGSA WORLD WORLD CUPCUP SERIES SERIES

13

10

ROUND

Malarrara Pro Teutonia

November 15-18, 2012 Teutonia, Brazil TRACK FACTS Course Length: 2.0 km (1.2 mi) Top Speed: 115 km/h (73 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Douglas Silva (BRA) 1:17.723 (2009) Katie Neilson (CAN) 1:34.210 (2011) Walter Ribeiro (BRA) 1:14.611 (2011) Alexandre Machado (BRA) 1:21.030 (2010)

2011 Winners START

Mischo Erban defeats Kevin Reimer in the 2011 Teutonia Semi Finals. Photo Pedro Krause

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Mischo Erban (CAN) Katie Neilson (CAN) Walter Ribeiro (BRA) Alexandre Machado (BRA)

The Malarrara Pro Teutonia is one of the world’s premier gravity sports events. Downhill skateboarders reach speeds of 115 km/h (73 mph) and street lugers top 130 km/h (81 mph) on this high speed run through the Brazilian jungle. To witness the speeds of Teutonia with your own eyes is an experience you’ll never forget.

Each year the crowds lining the course are among the largest at IGSA events around the world. Add in a healthy dose of Brazilian culture, music, food, and drinks, and you have one of the most amazing events on the planet. Competitors race head to head in two-man heats, creating a contest of epic proportions. The Teutonia World Cup winners list is comprised of the sport’s high speed flyers including Mischo Erban (2009, 2011), Kevin Reimer (2010) and Douglas Silva (2008). Plans are currently underway to live stream this years event.

You’ll be able to catch all the live action at IGSAworldcup.com.

11

ROUND

Hot Heels Africa

December 7-9, 2012 Kogelberg, South Africa TRACK FACTS Course Length: 2.2 km (1.4 mi) Top Speed: 85 km/h (53 mph)

Qualifying Records DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Jackson Shapiera (AUS) 1:41.970 (2011) Rebekka Gemperle (SUI) 1:59.815 (2011) Michael Serek (AUT) 1:41.885 (2011) Michael Serek (AUT) 1:42.240 (2011)

STA RT

2011 Winners

Douglas Silva leads Torbjorn Sunde at Hot Heels 2011. Photo Sharon Le Grange

DH Skateboard: Women’s DH: Street Luge: Classic Luge:

Douglas Silva (BRA) Rebekka Gemperle (SUI) Russel Naude (RSA) Michael Serek (AUT)

2012 marks the 10th Anniversary of Hot Heels Africa, the longest running event of the IGSA World Cup Series.

The event takes place in the Kogelberg Biosphere reserve-- about an hour drive from Cape Town. As the annual World Cup Series Finale, many Championships have been decided in Kogelberg. The South African Summer is just beginning in December making Hot Heels a great destination for fans and riders alike to finish out the season.

With the event taking place in a nature preserve, there is abundant wildlife in the area. Baboons have been known to come out to observe the race on a regular basis! Douglas Silva is the defending Champion after pulling off a tough victory over Mischo Erban, Jackson Shapiera and Christoph Batt. Hot Heels is promoted by the South African Gravity Racing Association (SAGRA) who who have always pedged to ensure that everyone enjoys their time in SA! Another great race is certain when the World Cup Series returns to Koegelberg in December.

14

WORLD SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE 20122012 IGSAIGSA WORLD CUPCUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

Records As of January 1, 2012

Mischo Erban. Photo Liz Kinnish

Katie Neilson. Photo Diego Cardenas

Michel Serek. Photo Dave Kessler

X Games V

June 25-27, 1999 San Francisco, California, United States 1997 - 2001 X Games Street Luge competitions were organized and sanctioned by the IGSA.

X Games III

June 18-23, 1997 Oceanside, California, United States Super Mass Street Luge (6-Man) Gold Chris Ponseti United States Silver Biker Sherlock United States Bronze Rat Sult United States Mass Street Luge (4-man) Gold Biker Sherlock United States Gold Dennis Derammelaere United States Bronze Lee Dansie United States Dual Street Luge (2-Man) Gold Biker Sherlock United States Gold Dennis Derammelaere United States Bronze Darren Lott United States

X Games IV

June 17-21, 1998 San Diego, California, United States Super Mass Street Luge (6-Man) Gold Rat Sult United States Silver Bob Pereyra United States Bronze Todd Lehr United States

Super Mass Street Luge (6-Man) Gold Dave Rogers United States Silver Biker Sherlock United States Bronze Sean Slate United States Dual Street Luge (2-Man) Gold Dennis Derammelaere United States Silver Lee Dansie United States Bronze Biker Sherlock United States

X Games VI

August 11-13, 2000 San Francisco, CA, United States Super Mass Street Luge (6-Man) Gold Bob Pereyra United States Silver Lee Dansie United States Bronze John Rogers United States Dual Street Luge (2-Man) Gold Bob Ozman Silver Wade Sokol Bronze Bob Pereyra

United States United States United States

King of the Hill Street Luge Gold Dennis Derammelaere United States

X Games VII

August 10-12, 2001 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Mass Street Luge (4-Man) Gold Rat Sult Silver Sean Slate Bronze Steve Fernando

United States United States United States

Dual Street Luge (2-Man) Gold Biker Sherlock Silver Stefan Wagner Bronze Dave Auld

United States United States United States

Super Mass Street Luge (6-Man) Gold Brent DeKeyser United States Silver Dave Rogers United States Bronze Dave Auld United States King of the Hill Street Luge Gold Dennis Derammelaere United States

WOMEN’S DH SKATEBOARD IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES CHAMPIONS Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005

Name Katie Neilson Brianne Davies Dasha Kornienko Brianne Davies Sarah Hodel Bettina Luginbuhl Bettina Luginbuhl

Country Canada Canada Canada Canada Switzerland Switzerland Switzerland

IGSA WORLD CHAMPIONS Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003

Name Katie Neilson Brianne Davies Brianne Davies Brianne Davies Jolanda Vogler Jolanda Vogler Angelina Nobre Angelina Nobre Anne Semay

Country Canada Canada Canada Canada Switzerland Switzerland France France France

IGSA WORLD CUP RACE WINNERS Name Brianne Davies Katie Neilson Angelina Nobre Dasha Kornienko Marie Bougourd Bettina Luginbuhl Jolanda Vogler Christie Alexio Kristina Engstrand Rebekka Gemperle Uta Hang Anne Harding Sarah Hodel Holly Weiss

Country Canada Canada France Canada France Switzerland Switzerland Brazil Sweden Switzerland Germany Canada Switzerland United States

Wins 10 7 4 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

IGSA WORLD SPEED RECORD Dominique Vukorep 100.40 km/h (62.39 mph) November 13, 2010 Teutonia, Brazil

OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE 2012 2012 IGSA IGSA WORLD WORLD CUPCUP SERIES SERIES

15

16

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

17

Records

TM

international gravity sports association

world cup series

As of January 1, 2012

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARD

IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES CHAMPIONS Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Name Patrick Switzer Kevin Reimer Mischo Erban Scoot Smith Erik Lundberg Fredrik Lindstrom Thomas Edstrand Bassi Haller Stuart Bradburn Werner Bucherl Chris Chaput

Country Canada Canada Canada Canada Sweden Sweden Canada Germany South Africa Austria United States

IGSA WORLD CHAMPIONS

Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002

Name Mischo Erban Kevin Reimer Kevin Reimer Scoot Smith Martin Siegrist Martin Siegrist Cedric Burel Martin Siegrist Clement Cane Yvon Labarthe

Country Canada Canada Canada Canada Switzerland Switzerland France Switzerland France Switzerland

Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Name Yvon Labarthe Peter Eliot Yvon Labarthe Leander Lacey Sebastien Tournissac Beni Weber David Dean Rian James Richard Knaggs Peter Eliot Dave Rogers

Country Switzerland Great Britain Switzerland South Africa France Switzerland United States United States South Africa Great Britain United States

IGSA WORLD CHAMPIONS

Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002

Name Walter Ribeiro Luca Santolamazza Nick Duffield Matthias Lang Gauthier DeKyndt Loic Zaccaro David Dean Leander Lacey Brent DeKeyser Olivier Wagner

Country Brazil Italy Australia Germany France France United States South Africa United States Switzerland

CLASSIC LUGE

IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES CHAMPIONS Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Name Michael Serek Michael Serek Michael Serek Michael Serek Michael Serek Beni Weber David Dean Rian James Jeremy Gilder Jeremy Gilder Dave Rogers

Country Austria Austria Austria Austria Austria Switzerland United States United States Great Britain Great Britain United States

IGSA WORLD CHAMPIONS Year 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002

Name Alexandre Machado Michael Serek Andy Lally Michael Serek Jonathan Blottier Loic Zaccaro David Dean Gregory Martin Michael Serek Leander Lacey

Country Brazil Austria United States Austria France France United States France Austria South Africa

IGSA WORLD CUP RACE WINNERS

IGSA WORLD CUP RACE WINNERS

IGSA WORLD CUP RACE WINNERS

Name Mischo Erban Kevin Reimer Patrick Switzer Martin Siegrist Scoot Smith Stuart Bradburn Erik Lundberg Manu Antuna Cedric Burel Clement Carne Thomas Edstrand Fredrik Lindstrom Douglas Silva Aki Von Glasow Mike Ziestman Christoph Batt Chris Chaput Brent DeKeyser Niko Desmarais Darryl Freeman Matthias Goransson Bassi Haller Gary Hardwick Rick Kludy Ramon Konigshausen Yvon Labarthe Zak Maytum Andreas Pfander Louis Pilloni Noah Sakamoto Raffael Schaffner Dillon Stephens

Name Leander Lacey Brent DeKeyser Peter Eliot Yvon Labarthe David Dean Nick Duffield Andy Lally Mike McIntyre Dave Rogers Mickel Echegaray Eugen Forschner John Fryer Matthias Lang Russel Naude Walter Ribeiro John Rogers Luca Santolamazza Sebastien Tournissac Olivier Wagner Loic Zaccaro Denis Araujo William Condon Gauthier DeKyndt Edgar DeWit Kurtis Head Richard Hodkinson Rian James Jeremy Kahn Richerd Knaggs William Stephenson

Name Michael Serek Andy Lally Leander Lacey John Fryer Alexandre Machado David Dean Jeremy Gilder Yvon Labarthe Chris McBride Riley Meehan Russel Naude Dave Rogers Sebastien Tournissac Beni Weber Jonathan Blottier Kevin Bouaich Craig Deltour John Fritz Robert Huber Darren Lott Abdil Mahdzan Gregory Martin Kolby Parks Konstantin Weigl Loic Zaccaro

Country Canada Canada Canada Switzerland Canada South Africa Sweden France France France Canada Sweden Brazil Switzerland South Africa Switzerland United States United States Canada United States Sweden Germany United States United States Switzerland Switzerland United States Switzerland United States United States Switzerland Canada

Wins 7 6 6 5 5 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

IGSA WORLD SPEED RECORD

Mischo Erban 130.08 km/h (80.83 mph) September 30, 2010 Colorado, United States

18 18

STREET LUGE

IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES CHAMPIONS

Country South Africa United States Great Britain Switzerland United States Australia United States United States United States Spain Germany United States Germany South Africa Brazil United States Italy France Switzerland France Brazil Canada France Netherlands United States Great Britain United States United States Great Britain Great Britain

Wins 9 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

IGSA WORLD SPEED RECORD

Walter Ribeiro 133.82 km/h (83.15 mph) November 13, 2010 Teutonia, Brazil

WORLD SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE 20122012 IGSAIGSA WORLD CUPCUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

Country Austria United States South Africa United States Brazil United States Great Britain Switzerland United States United States South Africa United States France Switzerland France Switzerland France Canada Switzerland United States Malaysia France Canada Austria France

Wins 17 6 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

IGSA WORLD SPEED RECORD

Chris McBride 122.97 km/h (76.41 mph) October 24, 2010 Teutonia, Brazil

2011 dH skateboarding review

switzer’s championship year

BY MARCUS RIETEMA

Konigshausen got his first win at Maryhill. Photo John Longfellow

Final Results 1. Patrick Switzer, Canada 2. Jackson Shapiera, Australia 3. Jakob Raab, Germany 4. James Kelly, United States 5. Sebastian Hertler, Germany

The 2011 IGSA Downhill Skateboarding World Cup Series will be remembered by the dominant performances put in by some of racing’s biggest stars, bigger events that spread the sport further around the globe and the fierce level of competition that became common place. Prior to the season Kevin Reimer, the all conquering downhill skater of 2010 suffered a severe leg injury. This left him off his skateboard and unable to defend his newly earned IGSA World Cup Series Championship. It also left the field wide open and we expected to see a number of different winners throughout the Ramon Konigshausen earned his first World Cup victory at Maryhill. Photo John Longfellow season.

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

top and bottom sections making it too dangerous to ride in the rain.

Finally when the rain wouldn’t stop, the IGSA Officials and race organizers decided to us a modified track removing the high speed sections and utilizing the technical center portion of the course for qualifying. Qualifying took place without incident and race day dawned bright and sunny. Switzer rode a brilliant race to earn the victory with Shapiera finishing second. Jakob Raab from Germany was third.

Maryhill Festival of Speed June 29-July 3, Goldendale, WA, USA The first World Cup race of the 2011 season was the Maryhill Festival of Speed. Maryhill is known for it’s long sweeping corners and wide track. It is one of only two World Cup races where six rider heats can be used safely. A few of the top contenders like Patrick Switzer and Jackson Shapiera decided to skip Maryhill to get an early jump on the European season. Qualifying and the race were dominated by Switzerland’s Ramon Konigshausen who earned his first World Cup victory. In the final heat Ramon had the race firmly in his grasp however, behind him there was a big battle brewing.

Coming into the final corner Zen Shikaze was second followed by 3X World Champion Martin Siegrist in third. Siegrist made a risky move to the inside of Shikaze, making contact and sending Shikaze crashing out. Siegrist crossed the line second and Tim Del Rosario-Rojas third. A huge controversy ensued and a protest was filed. The IGSA Officials ruled that Siegrist was at fault and relegated him to sixth place. It turned out to be a foreshadow of competitive incidents to come.

Final Results 1. Ramon Konigshausen, Switzerland 2. Tim Del Rosario-Rojas, United States 3. Billy Meiners, United States 4. Graham Buksa, Canada 5. Zen Shikaze, Canada

Boris Shinke leaves a trail of smoke in Insul Qualifying. Photo Dave Kessler

Insul Cup July 29-31, 2011, Insul, Germany The Insul Cup was held in the Eifel Mountains of Western Germany near the famed Nurburgring in Insul. After the previous weeks soaking, everyone was happy that the track stayed dry. The first two World Cups of the year had been extremely competitive. Unfortunately, friendly competition took a back seat to poor sportsmanship on race day. In the Semi-Finals Nicolas Robert attempted a pass on Konigshausen in one of the hairpins. The two riders bumped and Konigshausen crashed. A protest was filed and Robert was relegated to fourth place in the heat. Still upset, Konigshausen decided to take matters into his own hands and physically assaulted Robert. For his blatant unsportsmanlike conduct, Konigshausen was disqualified from the event and received zero points. In the final, Switzer rode to another impressive victory. Stefan Rufli was second giving him the best finish of his career. Alex Tongue and Boris Shinke tangled and crashed in the heat. In a show of unity the two riders decided to ride the remainder of the course together with their hands held high together to show everyone that the downhill family still lives.

Final Results 1. Patrick Switzer, Canada 2. Stefan Rufli, Switzerland Kozakov Challenge July 20-23, Czech Republic 3. Alex Tongue, United States 4. Boris Shinke, Germany Round two of the 2011 World Cup will be remembered for the 5. Torbjorn Sunde, Norway seemingly endless rain. The Kozakov track is very fast on both the OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

19

2011 dH skateboarding review

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

while qualifying and the race were live webcast around the globe.

The race itself was a barn burner with one tight heat after another.

In the final, it was Switzer out in front for the fourth consecutive race.

Coming to the finish, Louis Pilloni crashed heavily while running third. At the line it was George Mackenzie finishing second and James Kelly, benefiting from Pilloni's crash finishing third. Jackson Shapiera was fourth, Niko Desmarais fifth and Pilloni got up to finish sixth. Shapiera commented in his post race interview that the race was the closest and hardest fought that he had ever experienced.

The event returns in 2012 to host the IGSA World Championships.

Switzer, Tongue and Garant-Rousseau on the Padova Podium. Photo Dave Kessler

Padova Grand Prix August 5-7, Teolo, Italy Teolo’s course features two distinct parts, a high speed upper section followed by a tight and technical lower half. It’s in the lower section that things get interesting with a series of tight hairpins.

Patrick Switzer was the defending Champion coming in and after winning two World Cups in a row, was the overwhelming favorite.

Just prior to the third round, a rain shower came through soaking the track. Riders were crashing everywhere but Switzer took it all in stride and showed his dominance. He negotiated the wet track with finesse and was one of the only riders not to crash in the treacherous conditions. Switzer won the race easily with Alex Tongue finishing second and Maxim Garant-Rousseau third.

Final Results 1. Patrick Switzer, Canada 2. Alex Tongue, United States 3. Maxim Garant-Rousseau, Canada 4. Kevin Bouaich, Switzerland 5. Torbjorn Sunde, Norway

Max Wipperman negotiates “Seismic Corner” in Calgary. Photo Scott Wippermann

Winsport Canada Cup September 2-4, Calgary, Canada Canada Olympic Park, site of the 1988 Winter Olympics hosted the event that raised the World Cup Series to new levels. The wide, challenging course featured a series of sweeping hairpins connected by straights creating plenty of passing opportunities.

Jumbotron screens gave the spectators top to bottom coverage 20

Final Results 1. Patrick Switzer, Canada 2. George Mackenzie, Canada 3. James Kelly, United States 4. Jackson Shapiera, Australia 5. Niko Desmarais, Canada

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

Peru winner Dillon Stephens crosses the finish line. Photo Conan Muniz

Copa de los Andes October 28-30, Tarma, Peru The World Cup Series returned to action in South America for the Copa de los Andes in Tarma, Peru. Located at an altitude of around 3000m (9800’) high in the Andes Mountains, Tarma was a unique location unlike any that the World Cup had visited before. Switzer had already won four in a row and was looking to extend his win streak even further when he qualified number one. Silva was hot on his tail all weekend and in the final it became a showdown between the two of them along with Canadian Dillon Stephens and impressive Peruvian Felipe Malaga. In the final Switzer and Silva stayed close for the first three turns until they tangled and crashed. Both Stephens and Malaga took advantage moving into first and second respectively. Switzer and Silva were able to get back on their boards but for them, the race was lost. Stephens held on to earn his first World Cup victory with Malaga second and Silva recovering to finish third.

Final Results 1. Dillon Stephens, Canada 2. Felipe Malaga, Peru 3. Douglas Silva, Canada 4. Patrick Switzer, Canada 5. Jackson Shapiera, Australia

Hot Heels Africa December 9-11, Kogelberg, South Africa

Malarrara Pro Teutonia / IGSA World Championships November 4-6, Teutonia, Brazil

Teutonia is the steepest and fastest track of the World Cup Series.

Downhill skateboarding competitors routinely reach speeds in excess of 115 km/h (72 mph) while racing side by side in two-man heats. After missing the entire season with a severe leg injury, Teutonia saw the return of Kevin Reimer. Many wondered how the two-time IGSA World Champion would perform and questioned why he would choose such a demanding course to launch his comeback. In qualifying he laid all doubt to rest by posting the fastest time to earn the number one qualifying position. Reimer had gone from being a dark horse to being the favorite overnight. Also qualifying well were 2009 Teutonia winner Mischo Erban and 2008 winner Douglas Silva. In the early rounds of the race, most heats went as predicted with Reimer, Erban, and Silva all making it to the final rounds. Brazilian Danky Olvahe had qualified sixth and was the fourth Semi-Finalist. In the first of the Semi’s it was Silva vs Ovalhe with Ovalhe the surprise winner advancing to the final. The other Semi-Final featured Reimer vs Erban. For many this was the race of the day. Erban was rolling like a freight train and beat Reimer convincingly. In the Final, Erban was unstoppable riding to victory and his first World Championship. Reimer and Silva had a great race in the Consi with Silva taking third place in a photo finish.

Final Results 1. Mischo Erban, Canada 2. Danky Ovalhe, Brazil 3. Douglas Silva, Brazil 4. Kevin Reimer, Canada 5. Otavio Munhoz, Brazil

Reimer, Silva, Erban and Ovalhe celebrate on the Teutonia Podium. Photo Pedro Krause

Final Results 1. Douglas Silva, Brazil 2. Mischo Erban, Canada 3. Jackson Shapiera, Australia 4. Christoph Batt, Switzerland 5. Torbjorn Sunde, Norway

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

Kevin Reimer’s comeback at Teutonia impressed everyone. Photo Pedro Krause

For the ninth consecutive year, Hot Heels Africa held in the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve near Cape Town hosted the final World Cup race of the season. For many, the race is a warm escape from their colder homes in the Northern Hemisphere. Hot Heels also has a reputation for being a little more relaxed than the other races. For these reasons and many others, it continues to be a favorite with the riders. Having already clinched the 2011 World Cup Series title, Patrick Switzer elected to skip Hot Heels. Most of the other top riders were there along with a number of South African’s hungry for success. The final featured number one qualifier Jackson Shapiera, newly crowned World Champion Mischo Erban, Douglas Silva, and Christoph Batt. All the way down the hill Erban, Silva and Shapiera jostled for position with each taking a turn in the lead. As they came to the finish it was Silva who managed to get out in front, followed by Erban and Shapiera. Silva earned the third World Cup victory of his career to end his season on a high note.

Silva leads Shapiera and Erban in the Hot Heels Final. Photo Sharon Le Grange

2011 IGSA World Cup Series Final Points Standings 1. Patrick Switzer, Canada 2. Douglas Silva, Brazil 3. Jackson Shapiera, Australia 4. Alex Tongue, United States 5. James Kelly, United States 6. Mischo Erban, Canada 7. Max Ballesteros, Brazil 8. Torbjorn Sunde, Norway 9. Kyle Martin, Canada 10. Stefan Ruefli, Switzerland 11. Robin Sandberg, Sweden 12. Graham Buksa, Canada 13. Felipe Malaga, Peru 14. Andrew Chapman, Canada 15. Justin Readings, Canada 16. Luke Melo, Canada 17. Nicolas Robert, Switzerland 18. Braden Tibbles, Canada 19. Maxime Garant-Rousseau 20. Travis Craig, Canada

2216.85 pts 2050.80 pts 2044.84 pts 2005.78 pts 1972.37 pts 1957.58 pts 1898.44 pts 1882.54 pts 1860.60 pts 1848.36 pts 1846.38 pts 1819.88 pts 1767.02 pts 1752.64 pts 1731.54 pts 1697.66 pts 1641.54 pts 1615.47 pts 1600.05 pts 1565.51 pts

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

21

TOP CONTENDERS

1 PATRICK SWITZER

2 DOUGLAS SILVA

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

Birthdate: Jul 14, 1987 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 6 With four World Cup victories last year, “P-Swiss” firmly established himself as the top DH racer in the world.

4 ALEX TONGUE

Birthdate: Mar 11, 1983 Resides: Sao Leopoldo, Brazil World Cup Victories: 3 “Dalua” is always a threat for victory. He won in South Africa last year and plans to add more victories in 12’.

5 JAMES KELLY

Birthdate: Oct 20, 1992 Resides: Clackamas, OR, USA World Cup Victories: 0 Alex was the surprise of 2011 earning two World Cup podiums in his first year out of the Junior ranks.

7 MAX BALLESTEROS

Birthdate: Mar 18, 1990 Resides: Los Angeles, CA, USA World Cup Victories: 0 Consistent finishes highlighted by two World Cup podium finishes earned James 5th place overall in 2011.

8 TORBJǾRN SUNDE

Birthdate: Sep 13, 1989 Resides: Belo Horizonte, Brazil World Cup Victories: 0 Max had a solid year in 2011 highlighted by his victory at the Verdicchio Euro Downhill Series race in Italy.

10 STEFAN RÜFLI

Birthdate: Jul 19, 1983 Resides: Oslo, Norway World Cup Victories: 0 Torbjorn finished 5th at three World Cup races in 2011.

Look for him to challenge for wins in 2012.

11 ROBIN SANDBERG

Birthdate: Jan 8, 1982 Resides: Grenchen, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 0 Rufli earned the best finish of his career by finishing 2nd in Germany last year. He also had two additional top 10’s.

13 FELIPE MALAGA

Birthdate: Apr 9, 1985 Resides: Oslo, Norway World Cup Victories: 0 Two top 10 finishes in World Cup races along with a 4th at the Vernon NorAm helped Robin to 11th place overall.

14 ANDREW CHAPMAN

Birthdate: Aug 19, 1985 Resides: Lima, Peru World Cup Victories: 0 Felipe had a big year with top 4 finishes in 4 of 5 South American Championship races including a 2nd in Peru.

22

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

Birthdate: Sep 16, 1988 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Andrew consistently finished in the top 15 throughout the 2011 season. He’s fast and can never be counted out.

3 JACKSON SHAPIERA Birthdate: Mar 23, 1989 Resides: Sydney, Australia World Cup Victories: 0 “Jacko” is still looking for his elusive first World Cup win.

He made it to the Final round on four occasions in 2011.

6 MISCHO ERBAN Birthdate: Sep 28, 1983 Resides: Vienna, Austria World Cup Victories: 7 After going winless for two seasons, Mischo came roaring back by winning the 2011 World Championship.

9 KYLE MARTIN Birthdate: Jan 20, 1984 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Highlighted by a 2nd place finish at the Festival de la Bajada, Kyle also earned two World Cup top 10 finishes.

12 GRAHAM BUKSA Birthdate: Jun 29, 1981 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Graham made his first appearance in a World Cup final at Maryhill. He was a consistent top finisher all season.

15 JUSTIN READINGS Birthdate: Apr 1, 1992 Resides: Toronto, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 The highlights of Justin’s season were 6th and 7th place finishes in World Cup races.

He’s getting faster and faster.

KEVIN REIMER

RAMON KONIGSHAUSEN Birthdate: May 17, 1988 Resides: Samstagern, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 1 Ramon finally earned his first World Cup win at Maryhill last year. He’ll be a strong contender again in 2012.

ZAK MAYTUM Birthdate: May 21, 1991 Resides: Boulder, CO, USA World Cup Victories: 1 After winning Maryhill in 2010, Zak has continued to focus on racing in North America. Zak is always a threat to win.

JAKOB RAAB Birthdate: Mar 27, 1988 Resides: Stuttgart, Germany World Cup Victories: 0 Jakob became Germany’s top contender when he finished third at Kozakov in 2011. Can he get his 1st win this year?

MAX WIPPERMANN Birthdate: Oct 25, 1986 Resides: Seatle, WA, USA World Cup Victories: 0 Max won the Jr II World Championship in 2011. He’ll move up to Open DH full time in 2012 and will be a threat.

SCOOT SMITH

Birthdate: Apr 7, 1981 Resides: Brugg, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 1 Batt sat out most of 2011 with injuries. He came back at the end of the season to finish 4th in South Africa.

ERIK LUNDBERG

Birthdate: Feb 11, 1987 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 5 Scoot is a past World & Series Champion. He’s struggled recently but hasn’t lost any of his intensity or skill.

MAXIM GARANT-ROUSSEAU

Birthdate: Apr 8, 1987 Resides: Stockholm, Sweden World Cup Victories: 3 The 2007 World Cup Series Champ is making a comeback after sitting out most of 2011.

Expect some podium finishes.

DILLON STEPHENS

Birthdate: Jul 7, 1989 Resides: Montreal, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Maxim had his best World Cup finish yet placing second in Italy. He continues to pick up speed and move up.

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

Birthdate: Dec 25, 1988 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 6 After winning everything in 2010, “K-Rimes” sat out most of 2011 with injuries. He nearly won Teutonia on his return.

CHRISTOPH BATT

LOUIS PILLONI

Birthdate: Sep 17, 1988 Resides: Summerland, Canada World Cup Victories: 1 Dillon earned the first World Cup victory of his career in Peru last year. More wins are certainly in his future.

SPENCER SMITH

Birthdate: Jan 5, 1986 Resides: Los Angeles, CA, USA World Cup Victories: 1 Last year Louis was battling for the win at the Canada Cup when he crashed heavily. He’ll be after a Calgary win again in 2012.

GEORGE MACKENZIE

Birthdate: Jun 1, 1994 Resides: Seattle, WA, USA World Cup Victories: 0 Spencer won the Jr II Series Championship in 2011. 2012 will be his last year in Juniors.

He’s a future superstar.

LUKE MELO

Birthdate: Oct 5, 1991 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 George finished second in Calgary last year. It’s his home race he’ll be a top contender to win the World Championship.

DANKY OVALHE

Birthdate: Nov 17, 1992 Resides: Waterloo, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Luke ended 2011 ranked 16th.

He was impressive on numerous occasions last year and will get faster with experience.

Birthdate: Mar 13, 1988 Resides: Guaiba, Brazil World Cup Victories: 0 Danky finished 2nd at the 2011 World Championships. He also showed his speed at numerous other South American races.

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

23

TOP CONTENDERS

A.J. HAIBY DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

Birthdate: Feb 2, 1991 Resides: San Diego, CA, USA World Cup Victories: 0 A.J. shocked the establishment by winning the 2011 U.S. Nationals as a virtual unknown .

TRAVIS CRAIG Birthdate: Oct 3, 1989 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Travis had a good year in 2011 highlighted by a 6th place finish in Peru. He finished 20th in points.

NICOLAS ROBERT

BRADEN TIBBLES Birthdate: Jun 3, 1988 Resides: Toronto, Canada World Cup Victories: 0 Braden had a solid year in to earn 18th place in the final 2011 World Rankings. He’ll be pushing for podiums.

Birthdate: Jan 3, 1991 Resides: Delemont, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 0 Nicolas continues to impress by often finishing higher than many of the established stars.

JEFF BUDRO Birthdate: Jan 17, 1974 Resides: San Diego CA, USA World Cup Victories: 0 Probably the most versatile skater on the tour who can shred backyard pools, city streets and gnarly hills.

ADAM PERSSON Birthdate: Sep 17, 1990 Resides: Stockholm, Sweden World Cup Victories: 0 Rising talent who could follow in the foot steps of Swedish WC Series Champions like Lindstrom and Lundberg.

DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING Explained Downhill skateboarders stand upright on longboards and ride in an aerodynamic “tuck” position reaching speeds of 115 km/h (73 mph). Also known as “Speedboarding” and “Stand up” the first large competition was held in 1975 at Signal Hill in Long Beach, California. The skater’s hands are used as outriggers to help them maintain balance and stability while cornering. Hard plastic pucks are attached to their gloves so they can place their hand on the pavement incurring only minimal friction. Braking is accomplished by either dragging one foot on the ground, or pitching the skateboard sideways in a controlled slide. Decks are typically 34”- 48” in length and constructed from materials including wood, carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass, aluminum, titanium and structural foam.

Racing trucks are typically machined or cast aluminum. Wheels are made from advanced polyurethane formulas to provide low rolling resistance, vibration dampening, traction, and are typically between 70-90mm in diameter.

James Kelly at the 2011 Kozakov Challenge. Photo Dave Kessler

Patrick Switzer’s 2011 Championship winning board.

24

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

2011 women’s dH review

unstoppable katie

BY MARCUS RIETEMA

WOMEN’S DOWNHILL SKATEBOARDING

Katie Neilson leads Rebekka Gemperle in the Maryhill final. Photo John Longfellow

The 2011 Women’s World Cup season started with an epic battle between Katie Neilson and Rebekka Gemperle at Maryhill.

After a strong challenge by Rebekka, Katie eventually won and then went on a roll winning World Cup races in the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Canada, Peru and Brazil. She set track records at nearly every event along the way leaving no doubt that she is the fastest female skateboarder in the world. Rebekka gave Katie a good fight on a few occasions showing that she has seriously raised her game as well. She earned the first World Cup victory of her career in South Africa at the end of the season. Tamara Prader was a newcomer who scored several podium finishes in her first World Cup season. If she continues to improve Tamara will soon be pressuring Katie and Rebekka at the front. Marie Bougourd was also close to Katie and Rebekka on several occasions. Look for the women’s competition to heat up considerably in 2012.

1 KATIE NEILSON Birthdate: Jun 5, 1987 Resides: Vancouver, Canada World Cup Victories: 7 Katie was simply unbeatable in 2011. An off season knee injury could jeapordize her 2012 season.

4 MARIE BOUGOURD Birthdate: May 8, 1987 Resides: Lyon, France World Cup Victories: 2 Marie is another of the new wave of women’s downhillers.

She is aggressive and has what it takes to win.

2 REBEKKA GEMPERLE Birthdate: Oct 18, 1984 Resides: Bern, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 1 Rebekka has come a long way in only a few years.

She’ll be pressuring Katie even more in 2012.

3 TAMARA PRADER Birthdate: Jun 2, 1983 Resides: Zurich, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 0 Tamara was not even ranked in 2010. She seems to get faster with every race. Look for Tamara to win in 2012.

6 CHRISTIE ALEXIO

5 REINE OLIVIERA Birthdate: Apr 10, 1982 Resides: Sao Paolo, Brazil World Cup Victories: 0 Reine is the Brazilian sliding queen. She only recently started racing downhill and is already making an impact.

Birthdate: Mar 26, 1977 Resides: Sao Paolo, Brazil World Cup Victories: 1 Christie is the OG downhill lady of Brazil. She will be a threat for victory in the South American events.

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

25

2011 street LUGE review

labarthe wins the title

BY MARCUS RIETEMA

STREET LUGE Yvon Labarthe heads to victory in Germany as Mikel Echegaray-Diez and Abdil Mahdzan crash. Photo Dave Kessler

The 2011 World Cup season kicked off in Maryhill, Washington.

Veteran Mike McIntyre was the winner with Yvon Labarthe second and Christian Conaway third. A few weeks later the Series resumed in the Czech Republic for the Kozakov Challenge. Spaniard Mikel Echegaray-Diez stormed to victory with Labarthe second and South African Russel Naude third. Labarthe’s consistency was already paying off with two consecutive second place finishes.

Following Calgary, the WCS went to South America where for the first time, two World Cup events were held. The first race was the Copa de los Andes in Tarma, Peru. Without any of the IGSA street luge regulars with the exception of Chris McBride making the trip, the race was wide open. Brazilian Walter Ribeiro was the winner followed by fellow countryman Alexandre Machado and McBride finishing third.

The Malarrara Pro Teutonia IGSA World Championships in Brazil were up next. With speeds in excess of 133 km/h (83mph) Teutonia is a different animal than what most luge racers are used to.

Former Series Champion Eliot and top racer Mahdzan made the trip to Brazil only to be left uncompetitive. Eliot finished tenth and Mahdzan 14th. Ribiero won his second consecutive World Cup race and earned the World Champion crown in the process. Fellow Brazilians Denis Araujo and Leo Borton were second and third.

Robert, Echegaray-Diez, Mahdzan and Stephenson leave the start in Italy. Photo Dave Kessler

Next up was the Insul Cup in Germany. Labarthe got out in front during the final to win, while carnage ensued behind him.

Echegaray-Diez and Abdil Mahdzan tangled in the final corner allowing two-time World Cup Series Champion (2002, 2008) Pete Eliot to come through for second. Echegaray-Diez was third. The final race of the European leg was the Padova Grand Prix held in Teolo, Italy. Echegaray-Diaz stayed out of trouble and won with Mahdzan finishing second. William Stephenson from Great Britain was third. Labarthe was sixth but his strong points tally in the other 2011 IGSA World Champion Walter Riebiro. Photo Samy Ceolin races was already enough to put him solidly in the lead. It would be The season concluded in South Africa with Hot Heels Africa. South up to the others to try and catch him over the remaining races.

African local Russel Naude was the winner. Classic Luge Meister During the second half of the season, the Series returned to North Michael Serek made a rare Street Luge appearance and finished America for the Winsport Canada Cup in Calgary. William Condon second while Glen Phillips was third. Veteran Swiss racer earned his first World Cup victory with teammate Kolby Parks Labarthe wrapped up his second IGSA Street Luge World Cup finishing second. Top downhill skateboard racer Zak Maytum Series title in three years. He achieved the Championship through finished third in his first ever street luge race. He’s planning to enter consistency and the ability to stay out of trouble while his somemore luge races in 2012. times faster rivals were left rolling in the hay.

26

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

2011 CLASSIC LUGE review

5 CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR SEREK

BY MARCUS RIETEMA

STREET LUGE

Dr. Michael Serek who is also affectionately known as the “Flying Dentist” continued his complete domination of the Classic Luge division. He earned his fifth straight IGSA World Cup Series Championship (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011) and increased his World Cup victory tally to 17. Serek, who is a dentist in his native Austria, won World Cup races in the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy and South Africa. He doesn’t show any signs of slowing down although he should face increased competition in 2012.

Dr. Michael Serek winning in Germany 2011. Photo Dave Kessler Michael Serek raises a fist as he wins the 2011 German World Cup. Photo Dave Kessler

The IGSA has decided to follow the example of Downhill Skateboarding and count each racers five best finishes toward their point standings in 2012. This is up from four races in previous years. Yvon Labarthe finished second in the 2011 Championship with one victory (USA) and two additional podium finishes.

Russel Naude finished second in South Africa and had three additional top fives to place third overall.. If either of these riders can up their game, they could pressure Serek for the Championship. Brazilian Alexandre Machado won two races (Peru, Brazil ) but neither event featured the IGSA’s elite racers. It remains to be seen how Machado will face off against the world’s best. Spaniard Mikel Echegaray-Diaz pushed Serek hard at the three European events finishing second on each occassion. If he can find a little more speed and add a few races to his schedule in 2012, he could end the Austrian’s reign. One other wild card in 2012 will be Andy Lally. Lally focused on auto racing in 2011 earning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year title. He’s out of NASCAR this year and has vowed to make every race that doesn’t conflict with his sports car racing committments. Lally was the 2009 Classic Luge World Champion and could push Serek harder than anyone else in the world. The 2012 World Championships will be exciting!

LUGE RACING Explained CLASSIC LUGE

Michael Serek’s Championship winning Classic Luge.

Soon after the first skateboard was invented, its’ creator likely sat down on it and realized that it worked well that way too. This is how Classic Luge or “Buttboarding” got its’ start. In the late 80’s a group of Austrian snowboarding enthusiasts began riding their skateboards down from the Kaurnatal Resort after a day of snowboarding. Over time their hobby grew into a fully organized race known as Hot Heels Kaurnatal. To maintain the spirit of those early days, this class is the most restricted IGSA racing category. Boards must be constructed of wood and wheels cannot exceed 70mm in diameter.

The trucks must be commercially available. The idea behind Classic Luge is to keep technology minimal so that the rider skill is the determining factor. Top speeds in Classic Luge tend to only be marginally slower than those achieved in Street Luge.

STREET LUGE Yvon Labarthe’s Championship Street Luge has its’ roots firmly in skateboarding. In the 1970’s winning Street Luge. there was a downhill skateboarding competition in Signal Hill, California that featured highly modified, fully enclosed skateboards known as “Skatecars”. They proved so dangerous that they were essentially abandoned after the 1977 Signal Hill event. Rising from their ashes came increasingly sophisticated “Lay Down” skateboards that were used on the twisty, mountain roads of Southern California. After remaining underground for nearly two decades, the ESPN network adopted the sport for the inaugural 1995 X Games and renamed it “Street Luge.” Competitors lay in the supine (feet first) position and control the oversize skateboard by leaning their bodies. Braking is accomplished by dragging the shoe soles on the pavement. Today’s street luge is a highly sophisticated vehicle constructed from a variety of materials including carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass, aluminum, titanium, steel, structural foam, and other exotic materials. Between two and four trucks typically made of aluminum are used. Four to eight wheels made from advanced polyurethane formulas provide low rolling resistance, vibration dampening, traction and are typically between 70-90mm in diameter. Top speeds at Teutonia Brazil exceed 130 km/h (81 mph)!

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

27

top contenders

YVON LABARTHE

MICHAEL SEREK

STREET LUGE

Birthdate: Jan 11, 1974 Resides: Geneva, Switzerland World Cup Victories: 6 2X Street Luge Series Champion (2009, 2011) wins with speed and consistency.

Rarely makes mistakes.

Birthdate: Apr 1,1974 Resides: Vienna, Austria World Cup Victories: 17 Dr. Serek is the most dominant racer in IGSA history. 5 Classic Series Championships. (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011)

WALTER RIBEIRO

RUSSEL NAUDE Birthdate: May 25, 1984 Resides: Brackenfel, South Africa World Cup Victories: 2 After spending his career in South Africa he came to Europe in 2011 and was flying.

Birthdate: Aug 17, 1984 Resides: Curitiba, Brazil World Cup Victories: 2 Won the World Championship in 2011. Also holds the Official IGSA Street Luge Speed Record at 133.82 km/h.

ABDIL MAHDZAN

KOLBY PARKS Birthdate: Jan 23, 1984 Resides: Picton, Canada World Cup Victories: 1 Top racer who won the “Classic” division in Calgary.

He is always quick in both Street & Classic Luge.

GEORG KLOTZBERG

Birthdate: Jan 22, 1982 Resides: Petaling Jaya, Malaysia World Cup Victories: 1 Abdil is the 1st racer from an Asian country to win an IGSA World Cup race. He is a fast and consistent racer.

MIKEL ECHEGARAY-DIEZ

Birthdate: Jan 10, 1973 Resides: Vienna, Austria World Cup Victories: 0 Veteran racer who can typically be found at the sharp end of the field. Still looking for his first WCS victory.

MIKE MCINTYRE Birthdate: Oct 23, 1971 Resides: Glendora, CA, USA World Cup Victories: 3 Super fast racer from California will be a serious threat to win the SL World Championship in Calgary.

28

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE

Birthdate: Dec 1, 1986 Resides: San Sebastian, Spain World Cup Victories: 2 Mikel pushed Serek harder in Classic than anyone . Won 2 SL World Cup races. He‘ll be a serious threat to win it all.

NICK DUFFIELD Birthdate: Feb 3, 1983 Resides: Adelaide, Australia World Cup Victories: 3 The defending Newton’s Nation Champion will be a favorite to win the Australian WCS rounds.

PETE ELIOT Birthdate: Jun 1, 1974 Resides: London, England World Cup Victories: 4 Veteran racer who is still very quick. Won Street Luge WCS Championships in 2002 and 2010.

WILLIAM CONDON Birthdate: Sep 17,1984 Resides: Belleville, Canada World Cup Victories: 1 Confined his racing to North America in 2011 but still managed to finish 5th in SL points and 8th in CL.

CHRIS MCBRIDE Birthdate: Dec 11, 1968 Resides: Bothell, WA, USA World Cup Victories: 2 Passionate racer who knows how to win. Holds the Official IGSA Classic Luge Speed Record at 122.97 km/h.

ALEXANDRE MACHADO Birthdate: Feb 15, 1988 Resides: Curitiba, Brazil World Cup Victories: 3 Won both South American Classic WCS races in 2011.

Reigning IGSA Classic Luge World Champion.

ANDY LALLY Birthdate: Feb 11, 1975 Resides: Decula, GA, USA World Cup Victories: 9 2009 Classic World Champion will make selected appearances in 2012. Expect him to play a prominent role at World’s.

MAXIMUM IMPACT DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGN | BRANDING | PRINT | PACKAGING | WEB | SOCIAL MEDIA

Maximum Impact Design is a skater owned and operated design business specializing in action sports branding, print collateral, packaging, web design & social media marketing. Judi Oyama is the founder, and the President of Board Rescue a non-profit corporation dedicated to providing skateboard equipment to children: targeting low-income children and at risk youth.

Skater for life !

maximumimpactdesign.com boardrescue.org

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

29

2012 igsa continental series

Haiby winning the U.S. Nationals. Photo Marcus Rietema

Borton beats Ribeiro in Colombia. Photo Manuela Perez

Kowalski leads the pack in Italy. Photo Dave Kessler

With the ever increasing popularity of the World Cup Series and the inability for the IGSA to award enough World Cup events to meet the demand, Continental Series’ races were introduced in 2011. These events addressed a host of needs in the growing sport that included providing a separate points series for competitors who did not have the means or the desire to race on an international level. Additionally, smaller races gained the opportunity to be part of a meaningful racing league and new events gained the necessary exposure that would be considered for attaining World Cup status. Three separate Continetal Series were launched with the Euro Downhill Series for Europe, the NorAm Downhill Series for North America and the Circuito Sudamericano de Downhill for South America. Each Series included the World Cup events on the particular continent along with other Continental level races. All races awarded equal points and for 2012 each competitor’s five best finishes will count toward their points total. The 2011 races were well attended and all three Series have grown for 2012. They are proving to be a breeding ground for the up and coming talent who will become the sport’s next superstars.

2012 IGSA NorAm Downhill Series Dates

Event

Location

Jun 9-10 Jun 23-24 Jun 27-Jul 1 Jul 6-8 Aug 31-Sep 2 Sep 15-16 Sep 22-23 Oct 6-7

Vernon DH Grand Prix of New York Maryhill Festival of Speed Monterreal Longboard Fest Winsport Canada Cup PEC Gravity Festival Rubber City Gravity Games NorAm Finals

Vernon, BC, Canada Windham, NY, USA Goldendale, WA, USA Monterrey, Mexico Calgary, AB, Canada Picton, ON, Canada Akron, OH, USA San Dimas, CA, USA

2012 IGSA Euro Downhill Series

TM

Dates

Event

Location

Jun 2-4 Jul 25-28 Aug 3-5 Aug 9-12 Aug 18 Sep 7-9

Bo-Peep Crash & Burn Kozakov Challenge Padova Grand Prix Peyragudes Never Dies Descente!

Serra de Osso Downhill

Alciston, East Sussex Semily, Czech Republic Teolo, Italy Peyragudes, France Lausanne, Switzerland Serra de Ossa, Portugal

2012 IGSA Circuito Sudamericano de Downhill

TM

30

20122012 IGSAIGSA WORLD WORLD CUPCUP SERIES SERIES OFFICIAL OFFICIAL GUIDE GUIDE

Dates

Event

Location

Oct 13-15 Oct 19-21 Oct 25-28 Nov 10-11 Nov 15-18

Festival de La Bajada Snake Skeleton Downhill Copa de Ciudad de los Reyes Guaiba Downhill Malarrara Pro Teutonia

Bogota, Colombia San Luis, Argentina Lima, Peru Guaiba, Brazil Teutonia, Brazil

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES

31

32

2012 IGSA WORLD CUP SERIES OFFICIAL GUIDE