History was made as the world’s best freeride athletes conquered the Utah mountains and raised the bar for women’s mountain biking.
VIRGIN, Utah (October 10, 2024) — On a historic day for women’s mountain biking, the rugged Utah mountains witnessed an electrifying display of skill and bravery, as the world’s top freeride athletes etched their names into history. For the first time ever, seven elite women riders took on the iconic Red Bull Rampage course in Virgin, Utah, on October 10, 2024, propelling the sport to thrilling new heights.
The anticipation was palpable as the athletes dropped into the treacherous terrain, showcasing gravity-defying tricks and bold lines. Leading the charge was New Zealand’s Robin Goomes, whose fearless performance earned her the top spot with a score of 85 points. Goomes, known for her daring approach, nailed two massive backflips that left the judges in awe, sealing her victory. Her run, which paid homage to the gritty and technical style of classic Rampage contests, also secured her the Utah Sports Commission Best Trick Award.
Reflecting on her monumental win, Goomes expressed a mix of disbelief and pride. “It hasn’t sunk in yet,” she admitted. “It’s been such a journey, and I’m trying to take it all in. I’m so stoked for my crew—they’ve worked so hard. I feel like I did this for them, for the sport, and for all the other riders.”
In an unexpected turn, Canada’s Georgia Astle claimed second place with a score of 79 points. Initially an alternate, Astle wasn’t planning to compete, but when she got the call in September, she stepped up to the challenge. With precision and poise, she tackled her 41-foot drop and navigated technical sections with grace, proving she belonged on the podium.
Freeride legend Casey Brown, often hailed as the godmother of the sport, rounded out the top three with 77.33 points. Brown’s fearless descent down the ‘Laundry Chute,’ a perilous rock roll, was one of the standout moments of the event. Her grit and determination earned her the McGazza Spirit Award, honoring her contributions to advancing women’s freeride.
Beyond the podium, the event was packed with unforgettable moments. Vaea Verbeeck’s innovative line won her the Samsung Galaxy Trailblazer Award, while Argentina’s Cami Nogueria received the BFGoodrich Tires Toughness Award for her daring attempt at a 51-foot drop during practice. Though Nogueria couldn’t compete in the finals, her resolve to return next year remains unshaken.
New Zealander Vinny Armstrong and her crew were honored with the DECKED Digger Award for their outstanding course-building efforts. Armstrong, thrilled to have her brother on her dig team, credited him for his unwavering support. “He would do anything for me,” she said with gratitude.
As the dust settled on the women’s debut at Red Bull Rampage, the excitement isn’t over yet. In just two days, the men’s finals will take center stage on October 12, promising another day of heart-pounding action.
Red Bull Rampage 2024 Women’s Results:
Robin Goomes – NZL – 85.00 points
Georgia Astle – CAN – 79.00
Casey Brown – CAN – 77.33
Vaea Verbeeck – CAN – 72.66
Vero Sandler – NZL – 71.00
Vinny Armstrong – NZL – 65.00
Chelsea Kimball – USA – 62.37
For more updates on the event and to catch the men’s finals live, follow @RedBullBike or visit the Red Bull Rampage website.