Photo courtesy: Damian Breach
Escondido CA (March 26, 2009) Nema rider Jared Graves (Yeti / Fox Shox) dominated the 2009 Oceania MTB Championships this past weekend in Thredbo, New South Whales, Australia by pulling a double victory in both the 4X and downhill disciplines!
In the 4X, Graves was at ease on a fast and flowing track which included a variety of line options and gaps, albeit a bit on the short side. Racing went really smooth for Graves as he qualified 1st by a full second, then proceeded to win every lap all day with ease. “I was in the final with 3 other BMX guys that all were riding well, so it was good fun,” said Graves.
In the downhill competition, riders had a bit of an interesting finals as it had warm & sunny conditions all week. After qualifying first, in sunny conditions, the weather moved in. It quickly became cold, overcast & windy. As the last practice session began, the heavens opened and drenched the track. Luckily the rains stopped for the men’s finals & Graves was able to put together a great run to take the win by 5 seconds!
“I was pretty pumped to qualify 1st in both events, and back them up with winning when it counted as well…” exclaimed an excited Graves, “it was a perfect weekend!”
Graves is now in final preparation for an exciting start to the UCI World Cup season starting in just a few short weeks in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa!
Elite Men Downhill
1. Jared Graves - 6:13.65 [NEMA]
2. Wyn Masters - 6:18.81
3. Joshua Button - 6:19.44
4. Benjamin Cory - 6:19.57
5. Nathan Rennie - 6:19.89
Elite Men 4X
1 Jared Graves [NEMA]
2 Ryan Henderson
3 Leigh Darrell
4 Alex Lloyd
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About the company…
Through its roster of high profile athletes, Nema International is recognized as a leader in riding & racing apparel for the mountain bike community. Nema has continued to define the mountain bike apparel category, all the while staying true to the original goal… the product – fusing function & fashion for the world of mountain biking. For more information, visit Nema’s website at www.NemaBrand.com.
source: Dylan Dean
