Photo: Arthur Masera, from 22 Days to Rampage

No Rampage unless I can sort out a visa. The B1 B2 got denied because they still think that I'm going so I can make money. — Rémy Métailler

The list of riders unable to make it to the 2017 edition of the biggest freeride event in mountain biking continues to grow. Rémy Métailler has been denied access to the US with border security stating that the "purpose of the trip is to make money as a professional athlete".Rémy informed us that his original efforts to the border were with a valid ESTA (and his passport, of course), which is suitable for individuals who meet the criteria, including "planning to travel to the United States for business or pleasure". Since being denied access initially he has sought the assistance of lawyers, volunteered to refuse any kind of money as part of the event, whether prize money or the $5,000 in athlete expenses covered by the event promoters, and has had help from the French Consulate in Vancouver. Despite all efforts from the parties involved, he has been informed to obtain a work visa (which will take up to two months if expedited).Unfortunately, the line-item stating individuals traveling for business are allowed entry with an ESTA appears to be somewhat misleading with it not covering athletes participating in events within the US. That would include all athletes, whether a young basketball or soccer team from another nation or a professional athlete, whether earning any money in the US or not. As stated on the B1 visa page of the Work Permit website . "B-1 Business Visitor Ineligible Activities include;."At this point, Rémy will not be attending Rampage unless he is somehow able to sort out a visa, and quick.Rémy's runs down the intense Rampage course have been among the faster there are, with him hitting the features as if there were a clock timing the run. Check out his 2015 and 2016 runs below.