He showed a consistent performance this year and always finished in the top 10 at various events, the highlight being his first win at an FMB Gold event at O'Marisquino, which took place a week before Red Bull Joyride. After this season, the big names are now within reach at the Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Championship. We had the opportunity to speak to the promising rider when he arrived back in Zurich with his Rookie of the Year Award in his pocket!
How did you like Whistler? Was it your first time there?
It was just great to be in Whistler during Red Bull Joyride! I had a super good time with all the athletes and especially shredding in the bike park with everyone was awesome, especially during the Air DH Train! It was my second time in Whistler, but the first time during Crankworx.
Being in Whistler during Red Bull Joyride was certainly exciting. What did you like the most
Until now, I've always watched the livestream at home. This time watching my homies shredding on site was just super cool! The highlight for me was definitely Erik Fedko's run.
What impressed you the most?
The fight between Nicholi Rogatkin and Brett Rheeder was simply amazing, especially when you're so close yourself!
Tell us more about your season. How did it go for you? What were your goals for this season?
The 2018 season was definitely my best season yet. At the start of the season, I would never have believed that I would make it this far. I'm a bit surprised, but super proud that I was able to ride at such a level this year. I was in the top 10 at almost every event, and winning in Vigo was a dream come true. But my goal for 2019 is to take part in the Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Championships.
What was the first thing that went through your mind when you heard that you had won the Red Bull Rookie of the Year Award? We heard that you first had to ask your boss if you could fly to Whistler?
My first thought was: "I'm going to Whistler!" But I still had to ask my boss first if it was OK and he said: "Of course it's OK!" I'm absolutely thrilled that he was so supportive. Without him, I would probably only have been able to take part in a few contests a year.
How important are initiatives like the Red Bull Rookie of the Year Award for riders and the dirt jump/slopestyle scene in general?
It's really cool because it can open a lot of doors for young and unknown riders and offers the opportunity to attract new sponsors, for example. And you have the opportunity to experience a contest like Red Bull Joyride and see the pressure the pros are under at such big events. This definitely motivates other young riders for the coming season.
At the age of 18, you're not only one of the youngest riders on the FMB World Tour, you're also regarded as an up-and-coming star in the scene. When did you start dirt jumping?
I started with 4Cross when I was 8 or 9 years old, but then switched to dirt and BMX when I was 10.
What was the incentive for this sport?
I used to watch a lot of New World Disorder films and Crankworx Whistler slopestyle videos. I guess they got me interested in biking.
Who inspired you the most to start biking? Who is your mentor?
I've always been a big Sam Pilgrim fan since I was a kid! But my mentor, from whom I learnt most of my tricks, is definitely Chris Raeber. I learnt a lot from him and I should definitely thank him for getting me to where I am today.
Do you have any advice for young bikers who want to make it as far as you have?
Never lose the fun of biking! Having fun is the key to success!
Are you taking part in any more contests this year? Do you have plans for the offseason?
Yes, definitely! I'll be at the Zurich Trails Jumppark Contest in October and maybe also at FISE Chengdu in China. In the off-season I would like to travel to Barcelona!
Looking ahead to the 2019 season, which events are you most looking forward to?
I definitely want to make it to the SWC contests. Either by winning an FMB wildcard for it, or with enough points. It's going to be an exciting year!
Thank you for your time and good luck for the rest of the season!
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