After a bit of a tune-up on home soil, Georgia Astle is back on a major international podium.
The Whistler native soared to a bronze medal at the Crankworx European Whip-off Championships on June 21 in Innsbruck, Austria. Two Kiwis managed to overcome her: Vinny Armstrong broke through for gold and Robin Goomes checked in for silver. Meanwhile, Sechelt athlete Gracey Hemstreet made the final as well.
"Another fun one in Innsbruck. Beyond stoked with third place in Euro Whip-Off Champs!" said Astle on her Instagram account. "The skies opened up and the chainsaws were out in full force."
Kaos Seagrave prevailed among men, bringing it home for his native Great Britain. He was joined on the podium by runner-up Edgar Briole from France and fellow Brit Kade Edwards, who finished third. Dane Jewett from Squamish was the highest-placing Canadian in fourth.
Stormbreakers
As the storm clouds parted, riders started hurling themselves over a massive jump overlooking the Innsbruck valley. Over 3000 fans showed up, comprising what is estimated to be the largest Whip-Off crowd at Crankworx Innsbruck to date.
According to the riders, there was only one word on their minds when describing the atmosphere, the views, and the whip-off course: "insane."
“It was sick,” Seagrave said in a press release. “We all didn’t know whether it was going to happen because it was stormy from 3 p.m. with literally thunder and lightning, but we all turned up and just had a good time. Everyone just sent it. Stoked to be on the box again with my boys. That’s the second podium in a row now that we’ve got together, so that’s what we wanted to do and stoked that we did it!”
“Insane,” Armstrong added. “Craziest event ever. I can’t believe it was a thunderstorm and pouring down with rain, and then it was like the best time ever because it just watered the jump and made it perfect."
“Tonight, was insane!” Goomes piped up. “I don’t know how else to describe it. It’s just the best Whip-Off jump on the Crankworx circuit in my opinion. It’s really good vibes for me, because it’s the first Crankworx event I came to and the first event I won actually. It’s a cool memory for me every time I come to this place that’s just been already so good to me.”
