At the Simple Session BMX finals held in Tartu, American rider Garrett Reynolds claimed victory, earning his fifth gold medal at the event.
The BMX top three were decided during the qualification rounds, where Garrett Reynolds secured a significant lead, advancing to the finals. Joji Mizogaki from Japan and Matt Ray from the United States battled for second and third places.
In the finals, no one could surpass the points Reynolds scored in his first run. Already assured of victory, he improved his score with his second run, earning a high score of 92 points. Reynolds was also awarded the best street trick prize for his 540 bar fakie.
“For a one-minute competition run like this, it’s crucial to execute a clean run,” Reynolds explained. “The competition arena at Kammivabrik had a bit more of a park-style than I’m used to, but I liked it. It’s great to be back at Simple Session.”
The second-place finisher, 18-year-old Joji Mizogaki from Japan, impressed the crowd with a 360 quad barspin, earning 87.50 points from the judges.
Matt Ray fought his way to third place after an incomplete first run, scoring 86.83 points in his strong second run.
Commenting on the event, judge Bart de Jong said that Simple Session is a unique competition that brings together park and street riders, allowing them to mix elements from both styles. “Garrett Reynolds is more of a street rider, but his performances are perfect no matter what he does,” de Jong explained. “He makes it look so easy, but it’s not, because no one else can do the same.”
Regarding Joji, de Jong noted that he skillfully uses all elements of the course, with speed, height, and his own style. He also praised Matt Ray, calling him the complete package for such a competition, blending different styles.
The best park trick award went to Greek rider George Ntavoutian, who flew across the park with a tailwhip, while the best street riding special award went to Garrett Reynolds.
The LHV Best Estonian rider was Tauno Krüüts, who placed 23rd in the qualifiers with 57.66 points. Tauno also won the BALCIA Best Baltic award.
Simple Session photo gallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/simplesession/albums/
