Going to the Pannonian Challenge this week will be a hit, for the first time in history it will be part of the BMX World Cup Series. The location for the Pannonian Challenge could not get any better as it was right beside Copacabana (outdoor pools and water slides) and with the back drop the river Drava. This is the 17th season for Pannonian Challenge but what makes it different is that it is part FISE (Festival International Sports extreme) and has been recognized by UCI (Union Cyclist International). This will be the second stop for the BMX riders on the international tour before heading to North America.
Riders were feeling the heat of the sun at yesterdays practice with no breeze at all coming from the river Drava. The place to be for media and riders was on the top deck platform, as it is overlooking the BMX course. It is here that the riders wait their turn before hitting the course. They are here for more than just the shade, it has the advantage point of seeing how other riders hit the mark on the ramps and jumps. It was key on improving performance and getting the most air for the stunts. The first round of opening qualifications were happening later in the day.
Near the entrance next to FISE operation tent, I had a chance to meet up with Nick Bruce from the USA (Youngstown Ohio). He was a cool guy to talk and has good track record competing international.
I asked how things were in France at Montpellier for the first round of the FISE World BMX Series.
Nick: “The first stop was pretty amazing in France things went well.”
What do you think of Osijek set up?
Nick: “It’s the first time being here in Osijek the lay out is pretty good, I am looking forward to practice today.”
There is a lot happening around the event for spectators to join in on the fun with a great line up for the Music festival. The next two days will be critical for the athletes in the event standings. The judges will base the athletes on various criteria set by FISE. The awards ceremony will be held on Saturday at 22:00 for all athletes.
The results of the qualifications are posted on Pannonian Challenge web site.
To plan for the being here see the time slots for Friday and Saturday it is best to check Pannonian Challenge web site as times may change. It is definitely recommended to bring a hat and sun screen when sitting in stands. If you can’t make it the event will be broadcasted on vijesti.hr. The fun is just starting and there is a lot happening around the event for spectators to join in on with a great line up for the Music festival. There are 49 riders here this weekend from around the world competing from North America to Australia. With some of the big names on the list from Canada, Great Britain, France and other countries participating.
The talk of Croatia this weekend will be focused on Marin Rantes. He is one of the youngest prodigies born in Varaždin (August 1995) Holding onto top ten BMX riders in the world.
Check out the video Mike Varga international rider from Canada introduce the BMX Course!
