Rowan Sorrell Wins Red Bull Downforce 2011

On 4th December, 32 of the UK's top downhill mountain bike riders descended into Swansea city centre for Red Bull Downforce 2011. With a course overlooking Swansea Bay, riders were challenged with steps, terraces, narrow archways, grass verges and some of the steepest cobbled streets in the UK. Each rider had two heats in the qualifying round. The eight riders with the fastest time went through to the final where there was only one chance for glory. The worthy champion was Rowan Sorrell, 29 from Newport, South Wales, who beat his closest rival Michael Thickens by an outstanding five seconds with the fastest time of 02:15.81. Third place was taken by Nikki Whiles, who lost out on second place by a mere half a second making the race a close call. "What an event! Red Bull Downforce brought mountain biking to the centre of Swansea and it was a great buzz for us all to race, especially with so many people out to watch and cheer us on! Its great to take first place." - Rowan Sorrell It wasn't just the riders who had a blast though, world Champion siblings Gee, Dan and Rachel Atherton were all in attendance, inspiring the riders and giving advice throughout the day. Gee Atherton said, "It was a really good opportunity to show people what Downhill Mountain biking is all about. It's normally away in the hills and mountains and this brought it to their doorstep. Literally! They were really impressed. The riders looked truly shocked at how challenging and technical the course was. Amazing in an urban environment! It's awesome that Red Bull gave the opportunity for everyone to get involved as big events like this are often invite only. They were stoked to be part of it." RED BULL DOWNFORCE FINAL 1. Sorrell Rowan 2:15.807 2. Thickens Michael 2:20.499 4.692 2. Whiles Nikki 2:20.920 5.113 3. Hampton Greg 2:21.644 5.837 4. Stuttard Mathew 2:21.810 6.003 5. Baker Ben 2:23.077 7.270 6. Drake Gary 2:23.185 7.37 7. Moulson David 2:29.531 13.724 Keep your eyes peeled for the video coming soon to www.redbull.co.uk