Andrew Neethling – Making a Life in Mountain Biking

Welcome to Downtime Goes Downhill, a podcast mini-series that’s bringing you along for the ride, as we have a go at racing downhill. Downtime Goes Downhill wouldn’t be happening without the support of some incredible brands. So a massive thanks to Canyon bikes, Fox suspension, Wahoo Fitness, Fox clothing and protection, Maxxis tyres, Magura brakes and We Are One Composites wheels. This is season two, episode two and I’m joined by my teammates, Jonny and Ben to share our experiences from the first race of the season. As you may have worked out from the intro, it didn’t quite go to plan. However, progress was made, we had a fun weekend and lessons were learned all round. So sit back, hit play and listen to Downtime Goes Downhill with me, Ben and Jonny. You can also watch the episode on YouTube here. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Digital Downhill

Today, we’re joined by fan favourite, Eddie Masters. We’ll be chatting to Eddie about his 2023 season and the injury he picked up in Loudenvielle. Eddie shares his thoughts on the current state of enduro and downhill and what he’d like to see in the future. Why wasn’t he racing Hardline and will we see him at more in the future? As always, Eddie brings the fun. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Eddie Masters. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. Don't forget to complete our listener survey here to be in with a chance of winning some Magura MT7 HC3 brakes. You can follow Eddie on Instagram @edmasters. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you’ll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code 'DowntimeMay20' at the checkout. Magura Magura's fully adjustable HC3 lever, once an aftermarket gem, is now available straight from the factory with MT7 brakes. This means you can fine-tune your braking experience like never before, adjusting braking force on the fly to match the trail conditions perfectly. Exciting news doesn't stop there – for a limited time, you can snag a full set of MT7 HC3 brakes and Storm HC brake discs, front and rear, for just 399 Euro. But hurry, prices may vary in other regions. Head to magura.com now. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

Alright folks, World Cup Downhill is back for round two in the brand new venue of Bielsko-Biala in Poland and this is your Maxxis tyres pre-race show, where I’ll be joined by coach to the stars, Chris Kilmurray to get the inside line on what to expect. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Poland World Cup pre-race show with Chris Kilmurray. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Nathan Hughes

Welcome to Downtime Goes Downhill, a podcast mini-series that’s bringing you along for the ride, as we have a go at racing downhill. Downtime Goes Downhill wouldn’t be happening without the support of some incredible brands. So a massive thanks to Canyon bikes, Fox suspension, Wahoo Fitness, Fox clothing and protection, Maxxis tyres, Magura brakes and We Are One Composites wheels. This is season two, episode one and I’m joined by Jonny and Ben to dig into our pre-season preparation. With a season of racing under our belts, have we learned our lessons and got everything dialled, or are we woefully under-prepared for what lies ahead. As always, it’s an open and honest chat about the realities of three 40 something Dads giving downhill a go. So sit back, hit play and listen to Downtime Goes Downhill with me, Ben and Jonny. You can also watch this episode on YouTube from 8pm BST on 9th May, here. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Sadie Aldridge

Today, we’re joined by world champion, world cup overall winner and winner of round one of the 2024 season in Fort William, Vali Höll. From dominating the 2023 World Cup season to making significant off-season changes like moving out of her parents' home and heading back to YT, Vali gives us an exclusive peek into her world. Tune in as we explore what it's like to be the rider to beat, hear about Vali’s efforts to secure out-of-industry sponsorships, her exciting new web series, riding the new YT Tues and more. It’s clear to see that Vali is not only growing in speed and skill, but also in her comfort with who she is and where she belongs in the sport. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Vali Höll. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Vali on Instagram @valihoell and you can watch her brand new web series on her YouTube channel here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you’ll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code 'DowntimeMay20' at the checkout. Magura Magura's fully adjustable HC3 lever, once an aftermarket gem, is now available straight from the factory with MT7 brakes. This means you can fine-tune your braking experience like never before, adjusting braking force on the fly to match the trail conditions perfectly. Exciting news doesn't stop there – for a limited time, you can snag a full set of MT7 HC3 brakes and Storm HC brake discs, front and rear, for just 399 Euro. But hurry, prices may vary in other regions. Head to magura.com now. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

What a way to start the season. Fort William didn't disappoint and brought us a brutal track and incredible racing. We also saw some exciting new technology on the race track for the first time. There's a lot to discuss as the covers were finally pulled back on the 2024 World Cup downhill series. So sit back, hit play and listen to your Maxxis Tyres post-race show from Fort William, with Neko Mulally and Olly Morris. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Pete Scullion

This is the pilot for something a little different, where I’ll be supported by Fox suspension and given access to their suspension guru and race team manager, Jordi Cortes, and each episode we’ll be joined by one of Fox’s roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they’ve worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as Dialed as possible on track. This week Jordi and I are joined by Jackson Goldstone to discuss that incredible mont Sainte Anne race run last season, as well as chatting about his injury, expected recovery and his plans ahead of making a full return to racing. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Jackson Goldstone and Jordi Cortes. Supported By Fox This season, alongside Fox's very own Jordi Cortes, they are providing us access to their roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they’ve worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as Dialed as possible on track. Head to ridefox.com to checkout their latest range. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Sven Martin

Today, we’re joined by athlete, presenter and podcaster, Andrew Neethling. We’ll be diving into Andrew's remarkable journey, from his professional career to the invaluable lessons he gleaned from his father, shaping his path to success. Discover how Andrew navigated the challenges of reaching the top of his sport on a shoestring budget, and why a ride with the legend, Travis Pastrana, is a blur in his memory. And, of course, we'll get Andrew's insider scoop on who to keep an eye on in the upcoming downhill racing season. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Andrew Neethling. You can also watch this episode here. You can find Andrew on Instagram @andrewneethling and hear his podcast here. The books Andrew recommended are Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday and Solve For Happy by Mo Gawdat. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you’ll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code 'DowntimeMay20' at the checkout. Wahoo Fitness Wahoo's products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo's latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Ryan Franklin

Alright folks, after that long winter we are finally going world cup racing again and this is your Maxxis tyres pre-race show for the opening round of the downhill world up in Fort William, where I’ll be joined by coach to the stars, Chris Kilmurray to get the inside line on the unique demands of Fort William and we’ll be talking about who we’re excited to watch as the race season gets going. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Fort William World Cup pre-race show with Chris Kilmurray. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Nathan Hughes

Today, we have the privilege of welcoming Benoit Coulanges to the show. Benoit embodies dedication and commitment, embarking on an 11-year odyssey with a clear goal: to take a World Cup victory. Throughout this time of ups and downs, challenges and successes, Benoit has remained laser focused on his target. We'll journey back to his incredible silver medal finish at the 2021 World Championships in Val di Sole, where victory slipped through his fingers by the narrowest of margins. From there, we'll unravel the tale of his extraordinary 2023 season, characterised by unwavering perseverance, unyielding dedication, and ultimately, triumph. Of course, we'll celebrate Benoit's first-ever DH World Cup win in Les Gets and all the emotions that came with it. Where does Benoit go from here? We’ll find out in this episode. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Benoit Coulanges. You can also watch this episode here. You can follow Benoit on Instagram @benoitcoulanges and you can watch Commencal's film about his Les Gets win here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners Canyon Are you looking for a new ride? Well, the Canyon Trail Sale has started so that you can shred for less and save big on your next bike. With no better way to start your season than with a brand new, world-class mountain bike, you can save up to 30% on your dream Canyon. Head over to canyon.com now to find out more. Wahoo Fitness Wahoo's products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo's latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Jey Crunch