Cycle
VIRGIN, Utah (Oct. 10, 2024) — Seven of the world’s top women mountain bikers etched their names into history on Thursday at the inaugural women’s Red Bull Rampage. Under the early morning stars, spectators gathered at the venue as the first rays of sunlight began illuminating the Utah desert. Starting at 6:30 a.m., spectator shuttles climbed dusty roads beneath towering mountain silhouettes, winding through bubbly red rock and rolling sagebrush. Zion National Park’s looming sandstone cliffs in the distance provided an intense backdrop for the groundbreaking competition. The energy among spectators was high as riders geared up to charge down the gnarly terrain, pushing the sport to new heights.
Robin Goomes of New Zealand claimed victory with 85 points, landing two massive backflips that not only earned her first place but also the Utah Sports Commission Best Trick Award. “It hasn’t yet sunk in,” Goomes reflected after the win. “It’s been such a process, and I’m trying to take it all in. I’ve done this for my crew, the sport, and all the other riders.” Goomes celebrated the win in true Rampage fashion—with a champagne ‘shoey,’ chugging the bubbly from her shoe as the crowd roared.
Canadian Georgia Astle secured second place with 79 points, impressing with precision through technical features and stomping a 41-foot drop. Casey Brown, considered the pioneer of women’s freeride, finished third with 77.33 points. Brown earned the McGazza Spirit Award for her leadership and long-standing contributions to the women’s freeride movement.
Sammy Carlson, a professional skier and Casey Brown’s boyfriend, reflected on the experience of watching his partner compete, saying: “It’s definitely a new perspective. It’s been awesome to watch her do her thing, and I know how much it means to her. I get to experience it firsthand, seeing her control and do her thing—it’s been epic.”
The competition wasn’t without setbacks. A two-hour wind delay forced riders to stay on high alert as gusts threatened to derail the massive drops and tricks. Yet, every competitor gave it their all. Chelsea Kimball of the U.S. crashed on both runs but vowed to come back stronger next year.
As the event wrapped, Goomes expressed optimism for the sport’s future. “Rampage is the pinnacle of the sport. It’s just going to grow, and there’s going to be way more people involved,” she said. Goomes also praised Brown’s role in the sport’s evolution: “The reason we’re here is because of Casey. She’s been pushing the sport forever.”
The inaugural women’s Red Bull Rampage marked a pivotal moment for the sport, showcasing progression, grit, and world-class talent. With Robin Goomes leading the way, followed by Georgia Astle and Casey Brown, the competition set a new standard for women’s freeride. As the dust settles, the excitement surrounding this event signals a bright future, with more riders and greater challenges sure to come.
Women’s Final Standings
- Robin Goomes (NZL) — 85.00
- Georgia Astle (CAN) — 79.00
- Casey Brown (CAN) — 77.33
Brandon Semenuk Clinches Fifth Title in Men’s Rampage Finals
Two days later on October 12, Brandon Semenuk secured his fifth Red Bull Rampage title with a 92.73-point run after battling a wind delay and early setbacks. His winning run featured technical tricks, including a flawless flip whip, earning him a place in Rampage history.
“I wanted to put on a show,” Semenuk said afterward, reflecting on his second run. His first attempt was cut short by a crash on the final jump, but he nailed his second run to seal the victory.
Szymon Godziek of Poland took second place with 91.66 points, delivering an impressive backflip off the event’s biggest drop followed by a huge, laid-out double backflip off a jump at the bottom. Tyler McCaul rounded out the podium with 90.66 points, thanks to a fearless canyon gap and smooth backflip combination.
Yet not all competitors were as fortunate. Cam Zink crashed on his first run, breaking his leg, and was evacuated from the course. Brendan Fairclough executed a creative run but was given 76 points, prompting boos from the crowd. “We were gutted,” Fairclough said afterward, as his score left him out of the top eight, meaning he won’t receive an automatic invite for next year.
The men’s Red Bull Rampage delivered yet another unforgettable chapter, with Brandon Semenuk earning his fifth title through skill, resilience, and daring creativity. Despite fierce competition from Szymon Godziek and Tyler McCaul, Semenuk’s flawless second run secured his victory. He is now the only five-time winner in Red Bull Rampage history. With thrilling moments, some controversy, and a glimpse of the sport’s future, this year’s event left fans eager for what’s to come at the world’s most dangerous mountain bike competition.
Men’s Final Standings
- Brandon Semenuk (CAN) — 92.73
- Szymon Godziek (POL) — 91.66
- Tyler McCaul (USA) — 90.66
Both the men’s and women’s events are now available to stream on Red Bull TV, with additional highlights set to air on ESPN2 on Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. ET.
