This weekend, Downhill mountain bikers Gee and Rachel Atherton each took victory at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Val di Sole, Italy. Both were riding the new Saint components, featuring awesome brake performance and a crsipy shift feeling, combined with a more lightweight design.

As the baking sun ensured the track was hot and dry, all eyes were on the Athertons, particularly after an incredible display at the recent Mountain Bike World Cup in Andorra, when brother Dan also took the win, making it a triple-victory for the family – and for the new Saint as well. Unfortunately, Dan had to sit out the competition this week after breaking his collarbone...

Rachel was first at the start gate for the Women’s Downhill Final and being the favourite she completely fulfilled the expectations by crossing the line an astonishing 11.99 seconds ahead of her closest rival.

Next, pressure shifted directly to brother Gee, who now had to live up to the family name and pull off the double-win. Last down the hill, Gee had fellow Brit Steve Peat to beat, who in his illustrous career has never won the coveted rainbow jersey. Through the split and Gee was 2 seconds clear, a margin he managed to hold as he shot across the finish line and into the elated Atherton huddle – ensuring the family again made history and became the first to win two Mountain Bike World titles in the same year.

Congratulations to the riders and many thanks for introducing the new Saint at the highest level possible!


Photo credits: ‘Fraser Britton’