Maxxis Cup

Last weekend was what they call the "warm-up" for the world cup season. But for 2Stage Factory Team rider, Jess Stone, the Maxxis Cup was only her second trip abroad and her first time competing at international elite level. So you could say she was buzzing before she even got there.

“Having never seen the track before, I had no idea of what to expect and was feeling both excited and nervous!" Jess explained. "This would be the first time I was to experience riding in dust (makes a change from UK mud!!) as well as trying to attempt the massive jump at the bottom of the course (25Ft length, 12Ft drop). Which looked very daunting I must admit!"

"On Saturday, we did a few runs and I tried to follow Tom and Alex to see how much I could push it keeping up with the boys. It was good and we helped each other to find new lines and see where we were losing time. We were also absolutely loving riding our new bikes.”

After a successful practice day and conquering the biggest jump she’s ever faced, Jess was ready for race day. Coming down her first race run confidently, Jess placed 3rd, and knew there were areas where she could reduce her time. The final race run was what really counted.

“Out of the start gate I peddled like mad and kept as much speed going as I could," Jess recalled. "My 2Stage bike was definitely an advantage on this track with it being peddally and flat out. I was so tired by the end of the course but I kept it going knowing it was a good, solid run. I did the big jump into the final and saw that I was 4 seconds faster than my previous run.”

Jess’ faster time bumped her up to second place, 19 seconds behind the winner, Tracey Moseley.

“Overall it was an absolutely awesome experience. Being on the podium for my first official race as Elite was mint.”