The World Cup of the North

Mont-Sainte-Anne has always been a special place for mountain biking—steeped in history, brutal on both riders and gear, and unpredictable in its weather. This year marked my third time shooting the UCI World Cup here for Specialized Canada, and once again, the mountain delivered an unforgettable experience.

Shooting a race like this is a balance of preparation and adaptability. You scout lines, anticipate key moments, and constantly adjust to changing conditions. The track at Mont-Sainte-Anne is raw and punishing, which makes for dramatic shots—riders pushing through mud, dust, and gnarly rock gardens, all while battling for every second.

Beyond the race itself, capturing the atmosphere is just as important. The energy from the fans, the tension in the pits, and the raw emotion at the finish line all tell a deeper story. This year, I focused on not just the action, but the moments in between—the quiet focus before a run, the camaraderie between teammates, and the exhaustion (or elation) at the end of the day.

Working with Specialized Canada means showcasing their athletes in a way that highlights both performance and personality. Whether it’s the precision of a downhill line or the grit of an XC sprint, the goal is always to create images that make people feel like they’re there—feeling the speed, the intensity, and the sheer love for the sport.

Three years in, and Mont-Sainte-Anne never gets old. Each year brings new challenges, new stories, and new ways to capture the essence of racing at one of the most iconic stops on the UCI World Cup circuit.

See you next year!