Belgium’s Freestyle Motocross sensation Julian Vanstippen cemented his legacy at the King of the Whip 2024 by clinching his third consecutive title in front of a sold-out crowd at Montecasino, Johannesburg. The event, presented by LW Mag in association with Ford, Monster Energy, Yamaha, Garmin, Motul, GoPro, PlayTSOGO, and Estrella Cerveza, delivered an action-packed showcase of world-class FMX and Motocross talent.
A World-Class Event
This year’s King of the Whip boasted its most competitive lineup yet, with over 20 elite riders competing for a share of the R225,000 prize pool. The event also attracted its largest international roster, featuring stars like Tom Parsons (USA), Pat Bowden (Australia), Genki “Wanky” Watanabe (Japan), Andreu Lacondeguy (Spain), Sebastian Westberg (Finland), Antonio Navas (Spain), and reigning champion Julien Vanstippen (Belgium).
“This event continues to exceed expectations every year. From humble beginnings to being internationally acclaimed, it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come. This year, we introduced two major milestones—a pre-event press conference for riders and a partnership with playTSOGO, which allowed fans to bet on their favorite competitors. The energy, turnout, and global recognition were incredible.”
Ryan van der Spuy, the event organizer, reflected on the growth of King of the Whip:
Electrifying Competitions
The action began with the Best Whip competition, where riders battled through four qualifying rounds. Judges evaluated amplitude, style, and creativity to determine the top 15, who advanced to the semi-finals. Eight riders made it to the final, where Vanstippen faced fierce competition from Tom Parsons and Genki Watanabe.
Before the Best Whip winner was crowned, riders showcased their freestyle prowess in the Best Trick Right-Side-Up and Best Trick Upside-Down contests. Pat Bowden, despite nursing an injured ankle, dominated both categories with jaw-dropping stunts, including a Holy Grab to Double Hart-Attack Lookback and a series of backflips, earning him double gold.
“I didn’t expect to compete due to a broken ankle 10 days ago. I taped it up, gave it my best, and going home with two medals feels surreal.”
Bowden’s performance left the crowd in awe:
A Triple Crown Moment
As the night’s main event, the Best Whip Final, unfolded under dazzling pyrotechnics, the energy reached fever pitch. Local stars Dalton Venter and Dallan Goldman impressed, but the showdown was between Parsons and Vanstippen. Riding the Stark Varg electric bike, Parsons pushed the limits, but Vanstippen’s unmatched flair secured him the Triple Crown title.
“Third time in a row, baby! The crowd was electric, and winning this title again in front of them is something I’ll never forget. King of the Whip always delivers, and I can’t wait to return next year to defend my title.”
The Belgian champ expressed his excitement:
KING OF THE WHIP 2024 RESULTS
Best Whip
- Julien Vanstippen (Belgium)
- Tom Parsons (USA)
- Genki Watanabe (Japan)
- Dalton Venter (South Africa)
- Dallan Goldman (South Africa)
Best Trick Right-Side-Up
- Pat Bowden (Australia)
- Genki Watanabe (Japan)
- Julien Vanstippen (Belgium)
Best Trick Upside-Down
- Pat Bowden (Australia)
- Genki Watanabe (Japan)
- Dallan Goldman (South Africa)
A Growing Legacy
King of the Whip 2024 was not just a celebration of extreme sports but a testament to its rising global stature. With stellar performances, an international lineup, and an electrifying atmosphere, the event continues to solidify South Africa’s place on the global FMX map.
#KingoftheWhip
All Gallery Photos by Eric Palmer
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