A new track, the first stop, and straight into full throttle: right at the start of the season, Kouty delivers exactly the adrenaline rush that makes downhill so great – clouds of dust, high-speed sections and lines that changed with every rider. Anyone wanting to be fast here needed more than just courage.

Friday – First impressions

The new season of the iXS Downhill Cup kicked off in Kouty nad Desnou – and made a real statement right from the start. Things heated up in the Czech Republic, not just the temperatures, but the track too. Fast, dry and dusty, the new course – a full 2.7 kilometres long with a drop of almost 500 metres – proved a real challenge right at the start of the season.

Saturday – Dust & Speed

On Saturday, the weather and the track really stepped it up a notch. Temperatures continued to rise, the track became dustier and, above all, faster. With over 300 riders taking part, the line became increasingly worn and every section presented its own challenge.

In the seeding round, Lino Neumann (GER – Scott Gravity Racing) took the lead and showed early on who would be setting the pace this weekend. In the Elite Women’s category, Amelia Dudek (POL – KS AGH) was the fastest, putting herself in a perfect position for the final.

Sunday – Showdown

The final day delivered exactly what you’d hope for from the start of the season: good weather, a sense of anticipation in the air and a challenging course. During the morning practice session, final tweaks were made to the lines before things got serious.

In the race, the fastest riders from the previous day confirmed their form. In the Elite Women’s category, Amelia Dudek secured victory, whilst in the Elite Men’s category, Lino Neumann successfully defended his top spot on the podium.

It is also worth noting that Adela Kokesova (Horsefeathers Niseko) from the Czech Republic, competing in the Open U17/U15 female category, recorded the fastest time of the day among the women.

A great weekend

All in all, it was a more than successful start to the new DHC season. The new venue impressed with an extremely tough and demanding course that immediately pushed the riders to their limits. The organisation and the weather were spot on, even if there are still a few minor tweaks to be made here and there for the future – which is perfectly normal for a debut.

The season is now underway and there’s great anticipation for the upcoming events. The action continues at the next race in Willingen from 29–31 May as part of the Bike Festival.