Buff 4X ProTour – Fort William
2 June 2017 | By NoxyYear after year, Fort William 4X provides action and drama to the thousands of spectators lining the track on Aonach Mor and showcases 4X at its absolute best. It never, ever lets us down. In 2017, we are set for more of the same.
Winding its way through the trees from the start, riders burst into view of the finish arena by joining the last one hundred metres of the DH track. With rollers, huge jumps, rocks, drops, flat turns and berms, this track has it all to challenge the absolute best 4X riders in the World. It is always interesting to see how these riders smooth out this rough and tough track, especially when battling with three other riders.
This is the track on the 4X ProTour that riders want to win. Winners here add their name to a list of who’s who of former champions in the 4X world who won on this track.
In the women’s racing, Helene Fruhwirth will be the favourite. The 2015 4X ProTour Champion will return to the highlands and will be looking for the top step on the podium. Her work will certainly be cut out though. Finally the two young guns from the UK are old enough to race on the 4X ProTour. Megan Wherry and Tyde D’Souza have been dominating on the UK scene for years and this will be their first race on the World circuit. The expectation is high so let’s see how they go. Natasha Bradley will be at the sharp end and 2016 4X ProTour Champion Hannah Escott will also be looking for the podium.
In 2017, the sparks are set to fly again with the old guard all aiming to take this win. Can anyone stop them? The current top 5 riders in the World; Tomas Slavik, Felix Beckeman, Quentin Derbier, Scott Beaumont and Simon Waldburger will all be present. Throw into the mix the 2014 World Champion Joost Wichman and the scene is certainly set. British riders Will Evans, Luke Cryer and Duncan Ferris will lead the charge from British riders.
With qualifying on Friday night and the race on Saturday afternoon after DH qualifying, Fort William is the place to be on June 2nd/3rd. Predicting race winners, passing moves or what will happen in a 4X race is a very brave game! With the riders who are signed on to race this year we invite you to place your bets at your own risk!
See you all trackside.
Trails in Article
Fort William 4X Track
Fort William 4X track was the first ever venue for the format on the World Cup, the course has special significance, and stands up as 1 of the best courses.