One of the chapters in my PhD takes an in depth look at the experience of spectating, particularly in relation to mountain bike events. The experience of spectating at these events is pretty extraordinary as most of the people watching have a bodily appreciation of the skills and experience on display. This influences the motivation people yell from the sidelines, and the inspiration an audience feels after watching a talented rider make a technical hill look flat.
I’ve posted a few photos below that give a feel of audiencing, and the proximity of spectators to the action, at the World Mountain Bike and Trails Championships held in Canberra last week. What you can’t see is the noise, and the number of people that took off on their bikes during the event to hit up some other Canberra trails!
Photos: Kath Bicknell
Kath Bicknell 