Monster Army's Justin Dowell just scored a double podium at the FISE World Series stop in Montpellier, France. Taking third in BMX Spine and taking the win in BMX Park, which was a UCI World Cup event. We caught up with Justin to chat about it,
Tell us about the contest, what event’s did you ride? How did they go?
I rode BMX park and BMX Spine mini. Bmx park is mainly the reason I am in Montpellier because this event is a "World Cup", meaning it's hosted by the UCI. However, for as long I can remember Spine mini has been my favorite event. The energy of the crowd is unmatched and spine mini really compliments my riding style. I ended up 3rd in spine and I won park. Which I am still happy about! :)
How do you feel? Was this one of your goals for 2019? I feel fine after taking the following Monday off to travel. Riding 2 events in the same week is very challenging and I'm stoked my body was able to maintain itself. This far exceeded my goals for 2019, I wanted to stay healthy and make finals at every event so I can rack up a good amount of points every time. To win it is just unbelievable, I knew I could do it because I had won Worlds in 2018 but I noticed everyone turned up their riding a lot. I just needed to make sure my progression matched theirs.
Which part of the weekend are you most proud of?
The part I'm most proud of is surprising, it's not the win in park, it's that I managed to get top 3 in 2 events. Barely anyone risked riding another event because of how important the park contest was but I knew I wanted to ride spine as well. To make it happen in 2 events in the same week really proved my mental and physical durability is still there. This gave me lots of motivation.
Was there anything new you accomplished (tricks, lines, etc.) that you think lead to the double podiums?
I didn't really do anything new other than the backflip triple barspin on the spine. Other than that I just try to be ME. I want to have a unique line around the course complimented by unique tricks. Just enjoying the time and being in high spirits made my riding the best it's ever been.
What’s next for you?
Next for me is a string of contests. I go right from Montpellier to Croatia for Pannonian Challenge. After Croatia is another competition in Austria. Finally, I am home for a few days and then right back traveling to Boise for the X Games qualifier. So lots ahead but I know I can handle it :)
