Many people thought Sam would win at Schladming and were saying so all over the
internet for weeks, it's just they were talking about the other Sam, Mr Hill.
When the laid back Kiwi called Blinky by most, ran the fastest time in the
timed training session, and then again in the semis, people were starting to
re-think which Sam would be on top.
By his own admission, Sam Blenkinsop could ride each and every weekend in
Schladming, it's his favourite track of the year by far, but that doesn't take
anything away from an amazing 2nd year elite season which also saw a World Cup
podium debut back in Andorra at Round 2, as well as a bunch of top ten results.
His win in Schladming catapulted him to 5th overall for the season. When you
look at who stood below him on the Schladming race podium; Minnaar, Peaty, Gee
and the other Sam, well it's pretty impressive company; these are the 5 men of
2008.
Sam's win was also the first time in 18 seasons of World Cup racing, that the
New Zealand national anthem got played, prompting long time XC racer Kashi
Leuchs to come and find Blinky after the race and thank him personally.
Sam: "It's pretty sick, this track is the best ever, and I can't really believe
I've done this. My run was as loose as, but the bike was amazing, there's no
better bike for a track like this, it just soaks up everything. Can't wait for
next season!".
Sam thanks all of his 2008 sponsors: Yeti/Fox factory Racing, plus his
individual sponsors adidas eyewear, OGK Helmets, and FiveTen Shoes.
Photo Credit: Kathy Sessler
Date:
16/09/2008