Whistler, BC, August 12, 2025 – The 20th anniversary of Crankworx Whistler rolled into another day of high-octane action under a blazing summer sun. Today’s spotlight was on the Air DH, sending riders down the world’s most famous bike park jump line, A-Line, for a full-throttle test of speed, skill, and style.
Air DH: Iconic Jumps and Tactical Speed
The Crankworx Whistler Air DH is one of the festival’s signature events, taking riders down Whistler Mountain Bike Park’s A-Line – a trail renowned for its perfectly sculpted jumps, high-speed berms, and flow. While it rewards confidence and creativity in the air, victory comes down to strategic momentum and clean landings.
Anneke Beerten’s Emotional Retirement Lap
First-ever Queen of Crankworx Anneke Beerten returned to the course where she helped shape the festival’s legacy a decade ago. In a moving farewell, Beerten took her final run down A-Line with a celebratory “party train” in tow, featuring Harriet Burbidge-Smith, Robin Goomes, Casey Brown, and others – a fitting tribute to her storied career.
Hastings and Rude Take Top Honours
In the women’s elite race, New Zealand’s Jenna Hastings lit up the course with a 4:43.461, securing her second Air DH gold this season after also taking the win in Rotorua earlier this year. American rider Taylor Ostgaard earned silver in her debut Crankworx podium finish, while last year’s silver medalist Amy Morrison claimed bronze, just 0.029 seconds back.
On the men’s side, Richie Rude continued his dominance, backing up his Garbanzo DH win with another gold – this time clocking 4:15.719. Teammate Tyler Waite took silver, while local rider Dane Jewett secured bronze, adding to his medal haul for the week.
Women’s Podium
1. Jenna HASTINGS (NZL) – 4:43.461
2. Taylor OSTGAARD (USA) – 4:47.747
3. Amy MORRISON (USA) – 4:47.776
Men’s Podium
1. Richie RUDE (USA) – 4:15.719
2. Tyler WAITE (NZL) – 4:18.509
3. Dane JEWETT (CAN) – 4:18.817
Deep Summer Photo Challenge Brings Art to the Spotlight
Tonight, creativity took centre stage as the Deep Summer Photo Challenge lit up Whistler Olympic Plaza. Six talented photographers presented slideshows shot over just three days of the festival, weaving together the action, culture, and landscapes of the Sea to Sky region. In partnership with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, the evening is a celebration of storytelling, community, and the artistry that thrives alongside the sport. Hailing from Barcelona, Hector Saura takes the win at the 2025 Crankworx Whistler Deep Summer Photo Challenge. A rider, photographer, and creative with deep roots in the mountain bike world, Hector’s journey began as a dirt jumper before an injury steered him toward the camera. Since 2013, he’s been capturing mountain biking through his own distinctive lens, highlighting the overlooked stories, places, and people that shape the sport. His 2025 Deep Summer slideshow blended raw action, rich culture, and heartfelt community moments – earning him top honours from the judges.
