DARKFEST 2025 Final Episode - 110ft Sends and Full Results!

The 9th edition of DarkFest just dropped in Stellenbosch, South Africa, and once again, it completely took over the MTB world. Hosted by freeride legend Sam Reynolds, the six-day big air spectacle delivered everything we’ve come to expect from DarkFest: insane big air jumps, fearless progression, and yes — those wild, signature haircuts (reverse bowl cuts, anyone?).

The energy this year was next level. The course was perfectly dialed, and the rider lineup was the perfect storm of seasoned veterans, rising freeride stars, downhill racers, and slopestyle heavy hitters. Together, they lit up the hillside with an unforgettable week of unfiltered style and full-send commitment.

Speeds were pushing the limits, with riders hitting up to 76kph into the massive step-up. And the tricks? Absolute insanity — backflips, 360 spins, supermans, and combinations that blur the lines between possibility and madness. Conquering the monstrous 110-foot jumps demanded precise timing, technical skill, and nerves of steel. Riders had to hit the sweet spot: jump far enough to clear the gap but not so much as to overshoot and risk a brutal huck-to-flat.

As the clock ticked down and the wind calmed, riders took it up a level. Throwing everything on the line, sending bigger, spinning harder, and raising the bar even further for what’s possible on two wheels.

Finally, Sam Reynolds gathered everyone to announce the much-anticipated rider-voted awards — a tradition that celebrates the spirit, style, and unforgettable moments that define DarkFest.

“This year’s energy was off the charts,” said Sam Reynolds. “The riders pushed the limits in every session, and the course was running better than ever. It’s insane to see how far DarkFest has come and where it’s going.”

Here’s how the awards broke down:

• King & Queen of Darkness: Matt Macduff, Chelsea Kimball
  

• Muc-Off Filthiest Whip: Vinny Armstrong, Alessio Tonoli
  

• Dewalt Best Moment: Lucy Vaneesteren, Finley Kirschenmann & Talus Turk (shared)
  

• Kenda Mind Bender (Best Trick): Robin Goomes (backflip can-can on the step up), Kaidan Ingersoll (360 downside whip on the step up)
  

• Insta360 Best Run: Bienve Aguado, Vaea Verbeeck
  

• Insta360 Hotshot Award (Most Creative): Jack Schliemann
  
  

Special Shoutout to Bienve Aguado and Kaidan Ingersoll

We’re especially stoked to shout out two standout riders: Bienve Aguado and Kaidan Ingersoll.

Bienve Aguado (riding for Spank) absolutely crushed it this year, earning the Insta360 Best Run award with a flawless, jaw-dropping line that showcased his signature style and fearless creativity. Bienve’s performance is a testament to the innovation and reliability that Spank components bring to the world’s biggest freeride stages.

On the trick front, Kaidan Ingersoll (riding for iXS) took home the Kenda Mind Bender (Best Trick) award with an insane 360 downside whip on the massive step-up. Kaidan’s relentless drive to push boundaries — backed by the protection and performance of iXS gear — proved why he’s one of the brightest young names to watch.

Both Bienve and Kaidan’s performances embody everything that The Gravity Cartel, Spank, and iXS stand for: pushing limits, elevating progression, and doing it all with undeniable style.

Stay tuned — the momentum from DarkFest 2025 is only the beginning. We can't wait to see how these riders continue to raise the bar and redefine what's possible on two wheels.