Killian enjoyed the comfort of already been crowned World Champion before he arrived in Finale Ligure at the weekend. It was a case of enjoying the late September sunshine and ride a safe race.
Saturdays race consisted of 3 stages and 56kms over the Italian mountains followed by a further 4 stages and 53kms on Sunday. Including Thursdays and Fridays practice runs the riders would cover over 200kms.
The weekend opened with the longest stage of the race from the mountain top dropping over 8kms to sea level, Killian opened his account with a steady 6th place. A further two stages during the day left Killian siting in 6th position overnight. " Stage 1 was amazing ,
I'd made a few mistakes which cost me time , so sitting in 6th
position at the moment ".
An additional 4 stages were left to be tackled on Sundays course , again the Champion-elect rode steady throughout the day to sign off his 2017 season with a 7th position.
Photo credit: Enduro World Series / Sven Martin
Photo credit: Enduro World Series / Sven Martin
Photo credit: Enduro World Series / Sven Martin
Photo credit: Enduro World Series / Sven MartinOver the weekend Killian had the company of his younger brother Emmet, who was making his debut in the EWS event , the 16 year old was by far the youngest competitor of the 500 participants , Emmet checked in 44th position in the Under 21 category , already talk of Emmet talking over Killian's mantle in the future.
In a sport where consistency is the key to becoming successful. Podiums in Aspen Colorado , Whistler Canada, and further top 5 placings throughout the season helped Killian lift the title by a massive 540 points , Czech rider Vojtech Blaha and Nathan Secondi taking the remaining podium positions.
After the 8 rounds of the series Killian was officially awarded 2017 Under 21 Enduro Mountain Bike World Champion , the first ever from Ireland. Not to be forgotten Killian was still working a full time job in Mooney's Hyundai Garage in his hometown of Dublin. "World Champion ! Dreams do come true, everyone that made this possible , thank you so much."