Mountain Bikers Race Through Valparaiso

Created: 2012-02-20 23:31 EST

Category: World > South America

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Bike racers plummeted through the streets of Valparaiso, Chile on Sunday in the 11th edition of one of the world's most remarkable downhill races.

50 men and three women racers flew down sidewalks, over stairs and soared off jumps.

One Bolivian bike racer explains how the race in Valparaiso is so special.

[Iannik Wende, Bolivian Bike Racer]:

"It's a unique race. People come from all over to watch this event. The people are very enthusiastic. It's very demanding, crazy and unique. Valparaiso is a very unique city."

An Argentine rider said the enthusiastic crowd and the particular setting add up to a feeling that isn't found in any other race.

[Pablo Sewald, Argentinian Bike Racer]:

"It's something you don't feel in any other race. It's one of the world's most remarkable urban races. There are so many people, and it's a feeling you don't get from any other downhill race."

And Chileans got a special treat this year as local Mauricio Acuna won over an international field

[Mauricio Acuna, Chilean Local Bike Race Winner]:

"I got first place. It's been three or four years since a Chilean won. I'm from Vina del Mar, a local, so I'm happy."

The two-kilometer course, which takes riders about three minutes to navigate, has a series of ramps and banks and takes racers from dirt to cement.