Warning: Use of undefined constant WP_ENV - assumed 'WP_ENV' (this will throw an Error in a future version of PHP) in /srv/users/serverpilot/apps/wordpress/public/wp-content/themes/idf/singular.php on line 23 Thiago Lessa wins Newton's 2018 - International Downhill Federation
Open Skateboard podium, Thiago Lessa (BR) first, Brennan Bast (AUS) second, and Pepe Laporte (BR) third.
Thiago Lessa won Newton's today in a final where only 0.37 seconds separated first from fourth. Forest Elbow confirmed its reputation as the most dangerous corner on the world circuit, claiming a series of victims. Daniel Engel never recovered from his crash there in qualifying, Kyle Wester went out there in the second round, and Emily Pross and Carlos Paixão succumbed there in the quarters.
Thiago's strategy was conservative; he slid before Forest Elbow where most aimed to 100% grip it. Sliding at Forest Elbow has never been a successful strategy in the past, but now that riders are attacking Forest Elbow in tighter packs, the ability to modulate speed and line is key.
Pepe Laporte battled his way into third place today after suffering this spectacular crash at Forest Elbow yesterday during qualifying. Pic: Tom HynecJackson Shapiera, Brennan Bast, Pepe Laporte, and Dane Hanna exit Forest Elbow in Semi Final AEmily Pross (US) chalks up another victory in Womens, with Elissah Mah (NZ) second, and Natalie Burns (IE) third.Fin Cantrill (AUS) won Juniors, with Zane Bonser (AUS) taking second and Finlay Wilson (AUS) third.Brazilian Douglas Dalua is still very competitive in Opens, and in his first year of Masters will be hard to beat. Former Masters World Champ Ben Hay (AUS) came second, with Ryan Nicholls (AUS) third.Abdil Mahdzan (MY) won Luge, with Will Stephenson (UK) second, and Graham Brittain (AUS) third.
• Former Secretary, International Downhill Federation • Founding member of ASRA (Australian Skateboard Racing Association) • Skateboarder since 1972 • Likes visors
