Riders outperform the wind

Crowds of people yelled in support as they watched some of the world’s best BMX and freestyle riders roar up ramps and launch their bikes into aerial stunts like the whip, backflips and the Superman.

Gale-force winds forced the cancellation of the freestyle motocross contest but riders used all their effort to put on a show for the 3000-strong spectators.

American Michael “Hucker” Clark showed some bruises after a small fall due to the wind, but there were no dramas a few minutes later when he completed a "cliffhanger", to the crowd’s delight.

"It’s a bit of shame about this wind but Farm Jam is always a great event. We just try to make the most of the day," he said.

Gale-force winds forced the cancellation of a formal Farm Jam competition event near Winton on Saturday but hundreds of BMX fans who turned up to see the riders were not disappointed when they held a "jam" instead. Michael "Hucker" Clark, of California, performs a cliffhanger while riders (clockwise from left) Matt Mercer, of Hamilton, does a tuck no-hander, Mike Ross, of Australia, does a superman, Hamish Burrows, of Queenstown, performs a tobogga, Phil McLean, of Christchurch, does a seatgrab

They were pleased to see how the event, now in its 10th edition, had grown.

"It’s taken countless hours and effort to get to this point, but when we see the smiles on the faces of both the riders and fans, it’s worth it," Brett said.

Considering the weather, he was satisfied with the event, but a little disappointed.

"We couldn’t showcase each sport to its full potential, but we certainly made the most of the cards we were dealt."

With the cancellation of the contest, the results were taken from Friday’s freeride day. Californian freerider and X Games gold medallist Tyler Bereman won, Gore rider Ben Wilson was second, and Caleb De Lacy [Auckland] third.