Extreme sports have a way of drawing attention.

This weekend was no different as one of the largest mountain biking events in the world attracted north of 35,000 fans to Whistler.

Red Bull Joyride is the annual season-defining conclusion of the Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Championship, featuring 14 of the world’s top mountain biking tricksters.

Whistler’s course is renowned as having the largest jumps, making it the most challenging and exciting event of the circuit. Riders are awarded points based on their ability to complete the course with as many creative stunts and tricks as possible.

This year, Nicholi Rogatkin took home first place, becoming the first rider in history to win three Slopestyle events in one season.

Rogatkin was quick to credit part of his success to the tremendous atmosphere created by the crowd.

“The atmosphere, the riding, everything about this event inspired me to push it and push myself as far as I could go,” said the American. “To take the win here is an absolutely special moment for me, one I’ll never forget, and also one that I thought might never happen.”

Ontario native Brett Rheeder almost spoiled Rogatkin’s Triple Crown attempt – falling just short with a second run attempt that finished two points behind Rogatkin’s score of 96.5.

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