Ground-breaking freeride insanity at Darkfest 2024 – Full results and photo highlights
Recapping on a massive 2024 edition of Darkfest in the Vuurberg mountains near Stellenbosch, South Africa. Hosted by event creator and Darkfest mastermind Sam Reynolds, with the full week seeing some of the most progressive riding ever seen on the XXL course.
From huge makes, some brutal slams and plenty of good times on and off the bikes, the spirit of freeride MTB is alive and well.
"This has been a special year, with probably the best riding we've ever seen! It's amazing to be able to inspire the next generation and show them what's possible [on a bike]!" - Sam Reynolds
Kicking off the global freeride calendar and setting the bar for another year of fast paced progression, with ground-breaking tricks landed and new standards being set for female mountain biking, the riders had to endure some tricky conditions throughout the week, from changing wind directions and high temperatures. Despite the challenges, the riders managed to clock in some serious air miles and make the best of the early morning wake up calls.
“I love that my season begins with Darkfest because you start with the craziest jumps of your life. It gives you this boost of confidence for the rest of the year.” - Robin Goomes
Finishing the week-long event was a rider-voted award format for those who pushed the boundaries of big air to the absolute limit.
Full Results
King & Queen of Darkfest 2024: Elias Ruso and Vaea Verbeeck
Monster Moments: Tom Isted’s 110ft backflip on his first drop.
Robin Goomes and Harriet Burbidge-Smith backflips train on the step up.
Spank Bikes Best Whip: Dan Paley and Vinny Armstong
GoPro Best Run: Bienvenido Aguado
Kenda Mind Bender (Best Trick) Award: Kurtis Downs
Pinkeye Vision Biggest Burke – Vero Sandler
"I think Darkfest is one of the events pushing the sport to a different level. We've seen so many new tricks, new riders, new jumps and it is the one event in the world where riders get to show what we're made of in the biggest way. I'm very grateful to be a part of this!" – Elias Ruso
Stay tuned for the full video highlights coming soon to the Monster Energy YouTube.
