Kozakov Challenge 2019 and 2020

For the eleventh time, the Kozakov Challenge 2019 World Championship Series in downhill longboarding took place from 16 to 20 July. The event was organised under the patronage of the Czech Gravity Sport Association (CGSA) and the International Downhill Federation (IDF).

3. 3. 2020 Photos: 8

The Kozakov Challenge is the most prestigious competition in the Czech Republic and one of the best in the world. This year’s event was attended by 190 top-ranking riders from around the world. The competition was attended by 3,000 visitors, who supported the competitors throughout the event. The championship includes both of the two main downhill longboarding disciplines: standing, where riders can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h, and luge, where riders lie down and can achieve speeds of more than 100 km/h.

Track

The competition track offered two long straights where the riders built up speed and a middle technical section, which tested the navigation skills of each competitor. This wild ride did not lack excitement and unpleasant falls, and for this reason the riders and visitors were protected by safety nets and thousands of straw bales.

Facilities

A hilltop camp was available for visitors and riders, who could erect their tents and camp free-of-charge for the duration of their event. Every year, a big party tent is also available for evening events and a relaxation zone with a rich accompanying programme and refreshments.

Accompanying programme

During the day, the visitors could purchase food from the Petite Bruges stand, where excellent organic Angus burgers and authentic Belgian fries were offered. Excellent coffee and sweets were provided by Kávový Magnát. Visitors could test their own creativity at a screen printing workshop, where various textile products and pancakes with thematic designs were available. Spectators could also test their balance on the nearby slackline. For more courageous individuals, a tattoo studio was ready, where renowned tattoo artists were available with the support of Euro Tattoo Supply. For the duration of the event, a bar featuring alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and beverages was also available in the main tent, which was the venue for the evening programme which featured a line-up of DJs.