2009 Contingency Program Released!!-GET PAID!
Jared Graves Signs 2-Year Agreement with Nema!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ventura, California (November 12, 2008) Nema International is proud to announce that Jared Graves has joined the Nema family for the next two years! Jared joins the Nema in the midst of an exciting evolution of a true mountain bike clothing brand. With such a dominate force on the racing circuit, Jared is expected to solidify Nema’s presence on the mountain bike race circuit. 
"After seeing the gear they made for the rest of the [Yeti] team for the 2008 season, I knew they meant business, so when the opportunity came about to sign on for 2009 I knew it would be hard to pass up,” said Jared Graves. “Nema is a good company that is into making the best riding gear,… and isn't just all about the bottom line, which is very hard to come by these days. So with that in mind I jumped at the chance!!!"
Jared is respected as one of the world’s foremost gravity racers. Even taking a majority of the 2008 season off, in order to concentrate on his Olympic dream, Jared still dominated every mountain bike race he entered. Now that he’s back to racing mountain bikes full time, expect sheer dominance from Jared in 4x as well as being a top contender in downhill. It’s going to be an exciting season!
“I’ve worked with Jared throughout the years at various brands. At each of those companies, it was one of my top goals to bring Jared on board. The same goes for him here at Nema. He’s one of the few racers in the world that excels at every single discipline - Downhill Champ, 4X Champ, Slalom Champ & BMX Olympian,” stated Dylan Dean (Nema’s marketing & team manager). “Is there any wonder why he attracts so much interest? He’s the perfect face for our brand!!!”
Expect to see Jared’s involvement with future Nema product lines, including a Graves signature line in the near future. For more information on Nema, please visit www.nemabrand.com. For additional information on Jared Graves, visit his personal website at www.jaredgraves.net. 
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About the company…
Through its roster of high profile athletes, Nema International is recognized as a leader in riding & racing apparel for the mountain bike community. Nema has continued to define the mountain bike apparel category, all the while staying true to the original goal… the product – fusing function & fashion for the world of mountain biking. Led by team manager Dylan Dean, Nema sponsors mountain bike star athletes including Sam Blenkinsop, Justin Leov, Aaron Gwin, Team Yeti / Fox Shox, Brad Benedict, Ryan Condrashoff, Shaums March, Kieran Bennett, Mick Hannah & many more! For more information, visit Nema’s website at www.NemaBrand.com.
Brad Benedict Interview on PINNEDmtb.com
Check it out! Nema factory rider & the 2008 US National Series Champ Brad Benedict is interviewed over on PINNED!
http://www.pinnedmtb.com/brad_benedict_interview08.htm
Sam Blenkinsop Wins at Schladming
courtesy of 23 Degrees Sports Marketing
Photo Credit: Kathy Sessler
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.
Sam Blenkinsop Wins Schladming World Cup!
How awesome is this! At the last world cup of the season, Sam Blenkinsop steals the show by taking the win! With his victory, Sam is bumped up to 5th overall in the final standings!
Sam's teammates Justin Leov (6th) & Aaron Gwin (8th) have phenominal weekends as well! This is the BEST American finish at a DH World Cup in YEARS!!!
WAY TO GO GUYS!
MBUK UK's First Look at the Podium
The podium was featured in the FIRST LOOK section of the New MBUK. Here's what they had to say:
Nema is new to the UK but are by no means a new company. They started some 12 years ago in sunny Ventura, California, and since then have been doing their utmost to produce some of the hardest-wearing bike kit out there.Their Podium jersey has same nice features such as open-hole mesh ventilation, a Translink moisture wicking construction and ventilation panels under the arms and back. The shorts are made of super tough Cordura and get cam-lock fastening.Their Breather gloves are just that – breathable. They’re really lightweight and feature a perforated leather palm. Justin Leov and Sam Blenkinsop rock Nema gear and we can see why. Check out www.2pure.co.uk for more.
Nema's BRAD BENEDICT is your 2008 NMBS Champion!
Congrats to Nema factory rider BRAD BENEDICT for winning the 2008 NMBS series! In only his second year of racing (first full season), Brad had stellar performances throughout each of the NMBS races, including a victory in Santa Ynez, California!
Way to go champ! We're stoked for ya!
Aaron Gwin Interview on Bikemag.com
AARON GWIN is turning tons of heads & getting a bunch of great coverage! Here's a cool interview of Gwinny on BIKEmag.com
Aaron Gwin Interview on PINNED
Nema factory rider, Aaron Gwin, has got a great interview over on PINNEDmtb.com. Gwiny talks about what he's up to, how things went at his first world cups.... & talks about his astounding rookie season!
Check it out!
NEMA Jewel Review-Commute By Bike
With Gas Prices soaring, commuting to work is the way to go. The Jewel got a review by the guys at Commutebybike.com
Check it out.
http://commutebybike.com/2008/07/30/nema-jewel-thunder-bike-shorts-review/
Mont-Sainte-Anne Downhill Results
What a crazy weekend! Though the gnarly MSA track was muddy & rutted all weekend, and the threat of thunderstorms were reported for race day... the sun actually came out & the course dried up a fair amount!
Nema riders had another great showing this weekend. Sam Blenkinsop just missed out on a podium, but was stoked to have placed 6th! Blenky's Yeti teammates, Justin Leov and Aaron Gwin, scored 9th & 10th place respectively. This is Gwiny's first World Cup race ever.. for a guy who's only been racing for about 10 months, it's not to bad, eh? Way to go GWINY!!!!
Ryan Condrashoff had a great showing as well placing 32nd!
Nema riders are now making their way over to Bromont (Canada) for the next round of the UCI World Cup this weekend! Best of luck to everyone there!
PRO MEN DH RESULTS
1 27 MINNAAR Greg RSA19811113 SCB 4:30.57
2 1 HILL Samuel AUS19850721 MER 4:32.30
3 4 ATHERTON Gee GBR19850226 ANC 4:32.83
4 3 PEAT Steve GBR19740617 SCB 4:33.53
5 8 BAREL Fabien FRA19800726 SUB 4:37.25
6 24 BLENKINSOP Samuel NZL19881028 YET 4:38.34 [NEMA]
7 13 RENNIE Nathan AUS19810531 SCB 4:40.12
8 111 CAMELLINI Julien FRA19840107 CRC 4:41.74
9 23 LEOV Justin NZL19841020 YET 4:42.35 [NEMA]
10 157 GWIN Aaron Holmes USA19871224 YET 4:42.65 [NEMA]
32 96 CONDRASHOFF Ryan USA19860714 --- 4:54.92 [NEMA]
34 29 BENNETT Kieran NZL19871202 --- 4:55.31 [NEMA]
69 97 BENEDICT Bradley USA19860525 --- 5:08.24 [NEMA]
US National Championships VIDEO!!
Nema factory riders embark on the small town of Mt Snow, Vermont for the US National Championships! X-Fusion's got a video of the team packed full for gravity racing goodness! Watch Ryan Condrashoff rock the DH track into place 5th! Congrats to Amado Stachenfeld pedal his way onto the podium in Semi Pro Dual Slalom!
Way to go guys!
X-Fusion is stacked full of of Nema sponsored riders! Check it out!
Thanks to Theo Dilworth from All Out Productions for an excllent job on the video!
http://www.alloutprodux.com/xfuse08vermont.mov
Justin Leov Graces the Cover of NZ Mountain Biker!
Congrats Juzzo! Lookin killer in that Nema gear!
http://www.nzmtbr.co.nz
Nema's Unbeatable Weekend!
Snowmass MSC & Windham NMBS report: NEMA Riders Dominate Across the Country!
Nema’s riders had yet ANOTHER outstanding weekend across the nation! Nema's factory sponsored team, Yeti / Fox Shox, CLEANED UP in Snowmass, Colorado, for the “Blast the Mass” Mountain States Cup. Meanwhile, Nema factory riders THREW DOWN out in Windham, New York for the latest round of the National Mountain Bike Series!
SNOWMASS MSC
Nema’s Ross Milan (Yeti / Fox Shox) dominated the Snowmass MTX course, taking the win in every heat into the finals. In the finals, Ross met up with several fast riders – Petr Hanak, Jon Watt, & Erik Nelson. Each rider could easily spoil the day for other, but Ross would have nothing of it. Ross, charged hard out the gate & never looked back!
MTX – Pro Men
1. Ross Milan [NEMA]
2. Petr Hanak
3. Jonathan Watt
4. Erik Nelson
6. Chris Boice [NEMA]
8. Rudy Unrau [NEMA]
In the downhill, this day would mark a decisive victory for Nema riders as our factory team (Yeti / Fox Shox) swept the top 3 spots of the podium! Young gun, Aaron Gwin, demonstrated that he’s a true threat to any race he enters. Aaron narrowly defeated his teammate Justin Leov by just over 1-tenths of a second! Fellow teammate Sam Blenkinsop would round out the three in 3rd spot.
Downhill – Pro Men
1. Aaron Gwin 4.05.47 [NEMA]
2. Justin Leov 4.05.61 [NEMA]
3. Sam Blenkinsop 4.09.49 [NEMA]
21. Ross Milan [NEMA]
24. TJ Sharp [NEMA]
31. Chris Boice [NEMA]
MTX – Pro Women
1. Melissa Buhl
2. Neven Steinmetz [NEMA]
3. Christen Boyer
4. Darian Harvey
WINDHAM NMBS
A new venue on the National circuit, Windam Ski Resort proved to be highly challenging and extremely fun for the riders! With much of the natural terrain incorporated into the course, riders were refreshed and excited to race what is being touted as one of the best racetracks on the NMBS circuit this year!
In the downhill qualifying, constantly changing weather conditions proved to be problematic for racers. Despite early morning showers, Nema’s Kieran Bennett managed to keep himself calm and not let the wet conditions slow him down. Even being a bit cautious of the wet & grassy traverses and poor conditions, Kieran qualified 3-seconds ahead of the field, giving him a good amount of confidence going into the finals.
In the finals, Kieran Bennett followed up his stellar qualifying performance with his second NMBS win of the season by nearly 2 and a half seconds! Joining him on the podium were fellow Nema factory riders Brad Benedict & Ryan Condrashoff in 4th & 5th respectively. Windham marked the 2nd international victory of Kieran’s career.
Notable: Nema’s Brad Benedict’s extends his points lead with a 4th place finish on the day. Meanwhile Nema’s Ryan Condrashoff moves into 3rd and the day’s winner Kieran Bennett moves into 4th (despite missing the first two rounds of the NMBS) With one more round to go in Brian Head, Utah, this should prove to be a very fruitful & exciting conclusion to the season for Nema riders!
Downhill
1. Kieran Bennett [NEMA]
2. Geritt Beytagh
3. Cameron Cole
4. Brad Benedict [NEMA]
5. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
10. Mike Haderer [NEMA]
18. Joey Schusler [NEMA]
24. John Hauer [NEMA]
Nema’s Mike Haderer took the first NMBS victory of his career over a small, but very talented field of riders. On a fast & flowy track, Haderer sped through the rounds to defeat New Zealand’s Cameron Cole (who won the previous round in Deer Valley).
Dual Slalom
1. Mike Haderer [NEMA]
2. Cameron Cole
3. Eric Carter
4. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
6. Joey Schusler [NEMA]
10. John Hauer [NEMA]
American riders now head to Mt. Snow, Vermont for the US Championships. Best of luck to all riders attending!
Justin Leov Wins Deer Valley NMBS!
Nema riders had yet another stellar weekend in Deer Valley, Utah, for the 4th round of the NMBS. Fresh of the World Championships, Nema’s factory team riders headed to the picturesque mountain town for some great American racing action. Known for it’s rugged downhill trails and fast & flowy slalom track, Deer Valley would provide some of the best racing seen in the states thus far.
Nema riders started the weekend out by racing a fun dual slalom track. After qualifying first, Nema rider Aaron Gwin (Yeti / Fox Shox) rode a fast and strong throughout all his heats. Unfortunately a couple of small bobbles relegated him back a few spots, but that didn’t stop Gwiny from landing on the podium in 4th spot! Meanwhile, his Yeti / Fox Shox teammate, Chris Boice, has been on a tear all year and narrowly missed making the finals. Boice squeezed out Gwin in the small final to take 3rd on the day.
Dual Slalom Final Results
1. Cameron Cole
2. Petr Hanak
3. Chris Boice [NEMA]
4. Aaron Gwin [NEMA]
5. Mike Haderer [NEMA]
6. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
9. Sam Blenkinsop [NEMA]
13. Rudy Unrau [NEMA]
15. John Hauer [NEMA]
Nema riders are definitely a force to be reckoned with in the downhill. Not only did Nema rider Kevin Aiello (Yeti So Cal) take a decisive JrX downhill victory, but his time would have put him 15th in the Pro class.
Meanwhile, in the Pro Men’s DH final, each & every rider would be tested to their limit, as the rough Deer Valley DH track would take its toll on numerous riders. Nema rider would soon prove that their skill & determination would lead to their success.
After qualifying 1 &2 in the morning, teammates Justin Leov & Sam Blenkinsop (Yeti / Fox Shox), headed into the finals with great confidence. However, as riders began to descended for their final run, it was nearly a crapshoot whether they would come down in one piece.
Nema’s Kieran Bennett was definitely on a tear, as he won the previous NMBS in Angelfire, New Mexico. Unfortunately, his run didn’t go to plan here in Deer Valley, as shifting malfunctions would slow him down. Remarkably, Kieran still managed a fantastic result, placing him just off the podium in 6th.
As early race leader Amiel Cavalier sat in the hot seat, a variety of Nema riders would just miss the mark to dethrone the fast Aussie! Rookie phenom, Aaron Gwin, screamed down the mountain, but just narrowly missed the mark. Gwin placing 4th in the final (coincidentally matching his result in the previous day’s Dual Slalom). The next Nema rider to come close to Amiel’s time would be Sam Blenkinsop, who’s wild and hard charging style is a fan favorite! Unfortunately Blenki’s time would miss the mark by just 1-tenth of a second. In fact,… Amiel, Blenki & Gwin’s time would be determined by only 3-tenths of a second! Everyone’s heart was pounding by this point! 
Needless to say, this would be Justin Leov’s day to prevail! The Nema rider came PINNED down the mountain side & through the trees faster than any other rider. When Justin crossed the finish line, he pronounced his victory with a hammer by besting the field by nearly 6-seconds!
Throughout the field, Nema riders had stellar results. Nema’s Brad Benedict (SantaCruz / X-Fusion / WTB) maintained his series lead by placing 11th on the day.
Downhill Final Results
1. Justin Leov [NEMA]
2. Amiel Cavalier
3. Sam Blenkinsop [NEMA]
4. Aaron Gwin [NEMA]
5. Chris Van Dine
6. Kieran Bennett [NEMA]
11. Brad Benedict [NEMA]
12. Chris Boice [NEMA]
14. TJ Sharp [NEMA]
29. John Hauer [NEMA]
30. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
Nema riders have a bit of time off until their next major event. A few riders will hit up the next MSC race in Snowmass, while others will prepare for the next NMBS in New York in a few weeks time.
For more information, check out the full coverage on PINNED: http://www.pinnedmtb.com/deervalley08.htm
Yeti’s race video
http://www.yeticycles.com/?#/videovault/ (& yes, that’s me getting nailed by a huge rock 3/4 the way down by Blenki!)
X-Fusion video
http://www.alloutprodux.com/xfuse#5deervalley.mov
World Championships - Men's Downhill
Nema riders had an outstanding performance in the Downhill at the 2008 MTB World Championships today!
1. 2 GBR19850226 ATHERTON Gee GBR 2:33.29 64.39 3:12.12
2. 4 GBR19740617 PEAT Steve GBR 2:35.35 65.02 3:14.74 +2.62
3. 1 AUS19850721 HILL Samuel AUS 2:29.01 65.34 3:15.27 +3.15
4. 3 RSA19811113 MINNAAR Greg RSA 2:37.65 63.66 3:17.34 +5.22
5. 5 FRA19800726 BAREL Fabien FRA 2:36.80 65.13 3:17.92 +5.80
6. 11 NZL19841020 LEOV Justin NZL 2:38.89 64.39 3:17.96 +5.84 [NEMA]
13. 34 NZL19871202 BENNETT Kieran NZL 2:47.43 61.30 3:28.53 + 16.41 [NEMA]
17. 15 NZL19881028 BLENKINSOP Samuel NZL 2:50.71 63.56 3:30.98 + 18.86 [NEMA]
4X finals start in a couple hours... should be exciting to watch!!!
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS: Downhill Seeding Results!
Seeding runs took place at the 2008 UCI MTB World Championships. Nema's factory riders had stellar results, although they weren't necessarily going at full speed. This should make for an exciting finals come Saturday. For more information, full seeding results, and to watch live coverage, head over to PINNEDmtb.com
1. 2 GBR19850226 ATHERTON Gee GBR 3:24.81
2. 3 RSA19811113 MINNAAR Greg RSA 3:28.52
3. 11 NZL19841020 LEOV Justin NZL 3:29.95 (NEMA)
4. 1 AUS19850721 HILL Samuel AUS 3:32.32
5. 15 NZL19881028 BLENKINSOP Samuel NZL 3:35.72 (NEMA)
6. 16 FRA19791011 PASCAL Mickael FRA 3:36.85
7. 4 GBR19740617 PEAT Steve GBR 3:38.59
8. 20 GBR19880110 FAIRCLOUGH Brendan GBR 3:38.75
9. 32 AUS19780301 KOVARIK Chris AUS 3:40.54
10. 7 FRA19840107 CAMELLINI Julien FRA 3:42.83
15. 34 NZL19871202 BENNETT Kieran NZL 3:45.85 (NEMA)
Neam Factory Team: Yeti Fox Shox - 2 TOP TENS at FT BILL!
Check out the latest VIDEO of NEMA's factory team, YETI/FOX SHOX, at last weekends's World Cup in Fort William, Scotland! Top 10 Finishes for SAM BLENKINSOP & JUSTIN LEOV!! Way to go guys!
photo & video courtesy of Yeti Cycles
Ryan Condrashoff on the Cover of DECLINE
Congrats to Ryan Condrashoff on going big at Sea Otter, and earning the cover of the issue of Decline..
Fort William World Cup
Nema riders had yet another stellar weekend for the Nema team! Although none of our riders made the podium, there were definitely some great reuslts! Here's a few highlights
Men's 4X
Ross Milan 10th (Yeti Fox Shox)
Women's
Anita Molick 7th (4 Elements Yeti Hotec RSP)
Men's DH
Justin Leov 7th (Yeti Fox Shox)
Sam Blenkinsop 9th (Yeti Fox Shox)
Check out PINNEDMTB.com for video highlights & races from the Fort William World Cup.
Great job once again to all Nema riders!!
Nema Celebrates Back-to-Back Winning Weekends & Andorra WC Podiums!
photo courtesy of Dylan-Dean.com & Genius Imports (World Cup podium)
What a time it has been in the Nema camp! Just a couple of weeks ago, factory rider Brad Benedict took his first National downhill victory at the Santa Ynez NMBS, while Kieran Bennett grabbed his first International win a week ago in Angel Fire at the Chilie Challenge MSC / NMBS event. Then to top things off, this past weekend, Nema riders had phenominal runs resulting in several podiums at the 2nd round of the UCI World Cup series in Vallnord, Andorra!
SANTA YNEZ NMBS
Just a few short weeks ago, the 2nd gravity round of the National Mountain Bike Series took place in Santa Ynez, California. Even with 110+ degree temperatures, strong winds, and a lackluster DH track, Nema’s Brad Benedict still went all out for the win. Brad bested current hot-seat leader Eric Carter, and top qualifier Waylon Smith to take the victory! With Brad’s stellar result, he lands into 2nd overall in the National Series standings.
Pro Men DH
1. Brad Benedict 2.00.5 (NEMA)
2. Eric Carter...Mongoose +0.00.9
3. Waylon Smith (GBr) +0.01.1
4. Julius Syvanen +0.02.1 (NEMA)
5. Logan Binggeli +0.03.5
For more information on these events, check out PINNEDmtb.com
Santa Ynez NMBS - http://www.pinnedmtb.com/santaynez_nmbs08.htm
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ANGELFIRE NMBS / MSC CHILE CHALLENGE
One week ago, Nema’s Kieran Bennett flew into the states from his home country of New Zealand just to compete at the MSC Chile Challenge, as it’s one of the tracks he excels on. Having missed out on a win last year, Kieran was on a mission to dominate the track this season.
After qualifying 2nd, right behind fellow Nema rider Aaron Gwin (Yeti/Fox Shox), Kieran knew he had it in him to compete for the win. On race day, Kieran stepped it up and squeaked past Kain Leonard by 2/100ths of a second to take the day’s victory!
Pro Men DH
1. Kieran Bennett 5.19.71 (NEMA)
2. Kain Leonard 5.19.73
3. Eli Krahenbuhl 5.23.42
4. Lars Sternberg 5.24.31
5. Brad Benedict 5.25.22 (NEMA)
Pro Men MTX – US National Champ
1. Rich Houseman
2. Blake Carney
3. Chris Boice (NEMA)
4. Joey Backus
5. Rudy Unrau (NEMA)
Pro Women MTX (MSC)
1. Melissa Buhl
2. Neven Steinmetz (NEMA)
3. Jess Vogt
4. Sondar Williamson
For more information on these events, check out PINNEDmtb.com
Angel Fire NMBS - http://www.pinnedmtb.com/angelfire_msc08.htm
Yeti Video Clip – Nema Sponsored Team - http://www.yeticycles.com/#/videovault/
Click on the “MSC Race” on the right hand column
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UCI WORLD CUP #2 – VALLNORD, ANDORRA
Just this past weekend, Nema riders had outstanding performances by several riders. Nema’s Rastislav Pirman (4 Elements/Yeti/Hotec/RSP) took 4th spot on the podium in the Men’s 4X, while his teammate Anita Molcik (4 Elements/Yeti/Hotec/RSP) matched his performance by placing 4th in the Women’s 4X.
Meanwhile, Sam Blenkinsop (Yeti / Fox Shox) took his firs step onto the World Cup Podium by placing 5th in the Men’s Downhill. Sam’s stellar result brings him into 9th overall in the World Cup standings.
Pro Men 4X
1. Dan Atherton
2. Brian Lopes
3. Guido Tschugg
4. Rastislav Pirman (NEMA)
Pro Women 4X
1. Anneke Beerten
2. Mio Suemasa
3. Fionn Griffiths
4. Anita Molcik (NEMA)
Pro Men DH
1. Gee Atherton
2. Sam Hill
3. Greg Minnaar
4. Steve Peat
5. Sam Blenkinsop (NEMA)
For more information on these events, check out PINNEDmtb.com
UCI World Cup – Vallnord, Andorra - (VIDEO) http://www.pinnedmtb.com/andorra_wc08.htm
Yeti Video Clip – Nema Sponsored Team - http://www.yeticycles.com/#/videovault/
Riders are now in the town of Ft William, Scotland for the next round of the UCI World Cup series, then head to the UCI World Championships in Val-di-Sole, Italy.
Best of luck to all Nema riders!
Shaums March on the Cover of Mt Biking Magazine!
Nema rider, Shaums March, is the new coverboy on this month's (July '08) Mt Biking Magazine!
Shaums also has an article in the "Technique" section (page 20-21) where he shows you "Fast Corners"
Countdown to the '08 DH/MTX WORLD CUP Season!
Wow, is your heart pounding yet?? It's only a matter of hours until riders hit the course of Maribor, Slovania for the first gravity round of the 2008 World Cup MTB season! NEMA will be represented extremely well this weekend with our factory riders in check to tear up the circuit! Team Yeti / Fox Shox's Justin Leov, Sam Blenkinsop & Ross Milan have already been on podium this season, and are eager to continue their winning ways! Keep an eye out for American riders Ryan Condrashoff, Brad Benedict, John Hauer & Mike Haderer representing Nema at this weekends DH & MTX events!
Check out what the NEMA crew has been up to this past month across the country!
Sea Otter Classic
Pro Men DH
1. Greg Minnaar
2. Chris Kovarik
3. Justin Leov (NEMA)
4. Steve Peat
5. Nathan Rennie
10. Aaron Gwin (NEMA)
14. Ross Milan (NEMA)
15. Sam Blenkinsop (NEMA)
- Aaron Gwin has only been competing for 5 months... & only at about a dozen races. Gwin was the top placing American at the sea otter downhill - 10th.
_____________________________________________
California Gold Cup DH #2 - Wooodward West
Pro Men
1. Rich Houseman
2. Brad Benedict (NEMA)
3. Eric Carter
4. Brad Oien
5. Ryan Condrashoff (NEMA)
_____________________________________________
Mountain States Cup - Chalk Creek Stampede
MTX
Pro Men
1. Peter Hanak
2. Ross Milan (NEMA)
3. Eric Carter
4. Rich Houseman
Pro Women
1. Joanna Petterson
2. Bobbi Watt
3. Neven Steinmetz (NEMA)
4. Jess Vogt
DUAL SLAOM
Pro Men
1. Aaron Gwin (NEMA)
2. Rich Houseman
3. John Watt
4. Ross Milan (NEMA)
Pro Women
1. Joanna Petterson
2. Lisa Myklak
3. Neven Steinmetz (NEMA)
4. Jessica Vogt
_____________________________________________
Worlds Test Event - Val di Sole, Italy
Pro Men DH
1. Sam Hill
2. Steve Peat
3. Fabien Barel
4. Florent Payet
5. Justin Leov (NEMA)
7. Sam Blenkinsop (NEMA)
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Plattekill - Jr. Worlds Qualifier
JrX Men
1. Kevin Aiello (NEMA) *Automatically qualifies for American Jr. Worlds Team
2. Neko Mulally
3. Naish Ulmer
4. Zach Faulkner
5. Joey Schusler (NEMA)
Ross Milan Victorious at Fontana MTX; It’s Called ‘Podium’ for a Reason!
San Marcos, California (April 6, 2008) Riders from around the globe descended to the metropolitan suburb of Fontana, California for the first round of the 2008 National Mountain Bike Series! Even with an early calendar date, Nema International could not have had asked for a more exciting kickoff to the official mountain bike season!
Nema presented the newest members of our factory team, Team Yeti / Fox Shox, with custom edition white & black ‘Podium’ shorts… with turquoise Nema patches to match. It couldn't have been better timing, as the ‘Podium’ shorts lived up to their name! Factory Nema rider Ross Milan, took a decisive victory as he battled round after action packed round in the Pro Men’s MountainCross race. 
Ross Milan said…
“I felt super strong. I got out & got through all the heats with pretty much ease... & really put the hammer down when I needed to! In the finals, it was pretty stacked heat. I just really had a perfect gate…. Rallied all the way around the first berm & the line opened up... & ran away with it after that. It's great to have the first win, first race. Get the old confidence going before stepping into the world arena! We brought the ‘Podium’ [short] to the ‘Podium!’”
In the Pro Men’s Downhill, factory Nema riders had an incredible showing against a stacked field of world caliber riders. On a surprisingly difficult track, Justin Leov (Yeti / Fox Shox) proved that he’s had a great off-season training regimen, as he placed 3rd in the finals. Meanwhile, after qualifying 2nd, Sam Blenkinsop (Yeti / Fox Shox) followed up his incredible seeding run by placing 4th amongst the elite men!
Nema, along with their factory team & riders will be attending the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California in less than 2 weeks!
Nema Notes…
- Factory riders Ryan Condrashoff & Brad Benedict are representing in a RED special edition color of the Podium Jersey!
- Numerous Yeti / Fox Shox team riders attested that the Podium shorts were “mint” and the Breather gloves were some of the best fitting gloves they’ve ever used!
- Nema Jr X riders had a great start to the season as gravity phenom Kevin Aiello (Yeti So Cal) won in the downhill and placed 2nd in the MTX. Another rising star, Joey Schusler (Fox Shox / Yeti), had yet another great outing as he placed 3rd in the downhill and 5th in MTX.
For a more in-depth report & photos, visit http://www.pinnedmtb.com/fontana_nmbs08.htm
Photo credit: Dylan-Dean.com
MTX – Pro Men
1. Ross Milan [NEMA]
2. Erik Nelson
3. Dale Holmes
4. Peter Hanak
5. Eric Carter
9. Chris Boice [NEMA]
11. Mike Haderer [NEMA]
12. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
18. John Hauer [NEMA]
25. Rudy Unrau [NEMA]
27. Evelio Suarez [NEMA]
DH – Pro Men
1. Chris Kovarik
2. Nathan Rennie
3. Justin Leov [NEMA]
4. Sam Blenkinsop [NEMA]
5. Cameron Cole
11. Ryan Condrashoff [NEMA]
12. Brad Benedict [NEMA]
13. Aaron Gwin [NEMA]
15. Mike Haderer [NEMA]
33. Chris Boice [NEMA]
38. John Hauer [NEMA]
53. Evelio Suarez [NEMA]
Nema International Sponsors Team Yeti for 2008!
San Marcos, California (February 19, 2008) - Nema International is proud to announce the addition of Team Yeti / Fox Shox and their selected affiliates to our 2008 team.
2008 marks Nema’s official launch into the downhill race market, with the introduction of the highly anticipated ‘Podium’ downhill line. In order to truly demonstrate our dedication to the sport, Nema has established a relationship with one of the premier teams and brands in the industry – Yeti Cycles.
“I am excited that Nema and Yeti could team up,” said Nema president, Erick Kozin. “It was a natural fit for these two core mountain bike brands to come together. I look forward to an exciting season ahead!”
Team Yeti / Fox Shox will be essential in the introduction and progression of Nema’s ‘Podium’ line. Made with the mountain bike rider in mind the 'Podium' shorts will be instrumental in the performance and comfort of riders of all abilities.
“There is no other team or brand around with as much heritage as Yeti Cycles,” stated Dylan Dean, Nema team manager. “Their commitment to racing at the world cup, national and regional levels is outstanding. Their relationship to the Yeti bike owner is inspiring! It is a direct mirror of our goals here at Nema.”
Working with Nema’s custom apparel program, Yeti riders (Sam Blenkinsop, Justin Leov, Ross Milan, TJ Sharp, Chis Boice, Rudy Unrau & select affiliated riders) will be donning customized versions of the ‘Podium’ short, which will match Yeti’s recognized white, black & turquoise colors. Yeti riders will also be wearing the classic ‘Breather’ gloves, topping off their race kit.
“I’m excited to have Nema a part of our team here at Yeti,” said Chris Conroy, Yeti President. “With a long tradition in producing quality products, and their dedication to the future, Nema is a perfect addition to Yeti’s strong legacy.”
Both Nema and Yeti’s tradition in quality and rider satisfaction is represented throughout the products they produce. Be it on the race track, or on our home trails,… style, comfort and performance are essential in every product made.
Southridge Winter Series - Round 3
NEMA riders had a stellar performance at last weekends MTX & DH race in Fontana, California, for the 14th Annual Southridge Winter Series, presented by Shimano. Nema welcomes Yeti southern California regional riders Aaron Gwin & Kevin Aiello to the team! Kevin once again swept the MTX & DH races in the Jr X category, while Aaron placed an impressive 2nd in the Pro Men's DH. What's most shocking, is that this is Aaron's 3rd race ever!
Nema is having a blast at the Southridge winter series & would like to thank factory riders John Hauer, Ryan Condrashoff, Brad Benedict & the so cal Yeti boys for their support representing the brand!
Nema Stacked Podium! John Hauer 2nd, Ryan Condrashoff 3rd, & Daniel Cortina 4th!
John Hauer won each of his heats before crashing in the finals. 2nd place for the day.
Ryan Condrashoff PINNs it down the MTX course. 3rd place pro class!
Ryan Condrashoff gets bandaged up (from a crash sustained in the MTX finals) before going back out for some more DH runs.
Aaron Gwin ripping up the DH course!
Nema Riders Aaron Gwin & Ryan Condrashoff place 2nd & 5th respectively.
John Hauer show's some skills he learned the previous week!
For more information on the race, check out PINNED
Southridge Winter Series - Round 2
What a great riding!!! For those of you who decided to stay home this past weeken, you seriously missed out. The 2nd round of the 14th Annual Southridge Winter Series, presented by Shimano had some great fun & tons of people were rockin the newly released Podium DH shorts & Breather gloves! The weather was beautiful, the dirt was epic, & the riders were representing! Check out what went on...
Nema rider John Hauer sprints to the lead of his MTX heat race
Nema riders battle for position... John Hauer leads Ryan Condrashoff
INCYCLE's rockin the White/Blue Podium Shorts!
DH Pro Men's Podium - Nema Rider Ryan Condrashoff places 3rd!
MTX Pro Men's Podium - Nema Rider's John Hauer 3rd & Ryan Condrashoff 4th
The PODIUM SHORTS & BREATHER GLOVES have ARRIVED!
That's right! The PODIUM SHORTS & BREATHER GLOVES are here! Be the first on your block to own a set!
