Richie Rude is a quiet guy who tends to let his riding do the talking. He could make a fair old racket in the junior race.

Reigning World Champ Emmeline Ragot is one of the few who have escaped the curse of the rainbows - with a good 2012 season. You can be sure she wants to hang onto the title.

Floriane Pugin looks very happy with this course, no problems for her pinning the high speed lines through the trees.

At World Champs it's always hard to recognise riders in their national kit, but when they are wrapped in rain gear and sprayed with brown water it's even tougher. WHO is this mystery character? Billy please provide a feathery cap for the winner!

Remi Thirion has that full-on aggressive style. Can't go wrong for a photo, but what about holding speed on a course like this where you need to be smooth and calculated?

Chatter around the pits usually includes the 'so who's your guess for the podium?' And Greg Minnaar is one of those guys you cant leave out of your answer...

Brook MacDonald is having a whale of a time. Still buzzing from his WC win 4 weeks ago. Wet or dry he doesn’t care.

Troy Brosnan kept bashing out consistent runs today, he is calm and ready for whatever.

Aaron Gwin is in a very comfortable position. With the World Cup in the bag, this race would be a bonus.

Some riders would like a few more technical challenges here, Josh Bryceland gives the lowdown.