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Greg Illingworth is pretty much the dude that has made it possible for so many international BMX riders to be heading out to Cape Town, South Africa for Ultimate X (27 and 28 Feb) and The Night Harvest (6 March) – so big ups to him. Greg himself will also be returning to the mother city to compete in both events.
We hooked up this quick interview with Greg which is a “must read” as his answer will not only get you hyped but will have you in stitches.
“Fast as hell, high as heaven and smooth as a bottle of Cape Velvet on ice”
How amped are you to be heading back out to South Africa?
It’s like being in school waiting for break up day all over again. I can’t wait to be in the warm weather with all the homies riding the best spots.
You will be competing in both Ultimate X and The Night Harvest. What are your thoughts on the contests?
I think they are both fun contests in their own right. Ultimate X is always a rad set up and I’m looking forward to seeing the new venue and park layout this year. The Night Harvest has been getting better every year and the dudes that build the jumps have put in a lot of work this year. It’s going to be a sick evening shredding good jumps with good people.
One being a park event and the other a dirt event, which are you looking forward to most and why?
Ah man that’s a tough call. I’m looking forward to them both, but for different reasons. I’m really excited to witness everyone in SA trip out when they see Kevin Peraza ride Ultimate X. No one in SA has seen park riding like that first hand. From a selfish perspective I’d say I’m looking forward to The Night Harvest the most just because I know how good it’s going to feel roasting through those trails.
What are your goals for both Ultimate X and The night Harvest?
What do you mean? If you ain’t first you’re last, right? [Laughs] Just kidding. Well, as I sat on the sideline last year with an injury, I’d say I would be happy just to be healthy and riding at both events. I’ve never really done too well in dirt contests so I’m not sure how that will go. I have a good record for Ultimate X but with so many dialled international riders here it won’t be easy.
What can fans expect from your riding style at the events?
Fast as hell, high as heaven and smooth as a bottle of Cape Velvet on ice. Well at least that’s what I’m expecting, might not be so elegant in real life [laughs].
You have a big bag of tricks, which new ones are you working on and will we see them in SA?
I’ve recently been dabbling in the Quadruple Backflip game but I sprained my pinkie toe so I’m not sure I’ll be able to drop it.
What are looking forward to sharing and showing the international riders coming out for these events?
Everything about Cape Town, they will love it all. It’s winter this side of the world, so merely the fact that the sun will be shining will have everyone stoked.
Any words for the masses that will be out supporting the events and the athletes?
If you are a pretty female, please blow kisses at Paul Ryan until it gets so awkward that his beard falls off.
