Canada’s Jackson Goldstone made a stunning return from injury to claim victory at Red Bull Hardline Tasmania 2025, narrowly beating Asa Vermette in one of the most intense downhill races to date. The 20-year-old Canadian clocked an electrifying 3:17.096, edging out Vermette by just 0.233 seconds in an epic showdown on the toughest mountain biking course in the world. Meanwhile, Gracey Hemstreet made history by winning the first-ever women’s category.
A Battle on the Edge
Originally built by Dan Atherton, Red Bull Hardline is infamous for its brutal terrain and massive jumps. Since its debut in Dyfi Valley, Wales, it has earned a reputation as the toughest downhill event in the world. The Tasmania edition, introduced in 2024, saw Irishman Rónán Dunne claim victory in its inaugural year, but the 2025 edition raised the stakes even further.
With steep descents, technical sections, and huge jumps, the Tasmania course pushed riders to their limits. Crowds lined the track to witness over 20 elite male and female riders tackle the 2.9km course, which included an 80-foot gap jump, speeds reaching 80 km/h, and a 600m vertical elevation drop.
Goldstone’s Redemption
Goldstone, who previously won Red Bull Hardline Wales 2022 as a debutant at just 18 years old, suffered a heartbreaking DNF in 2024. However, after a 12-month recovery, he returned stronger than ever. Reflecting on his triumph, he said:
“This is my first big race back, and to win it is probably one of the biggest moments of my life. I don’t even know what to say, that was amazing.”
Asa Vermette, at just 18 years old, became the youngest rider to ever step onto the Hardline podium, proving his immense potential. Meanwhile, Australian Troy Brosnan secured third place in front of his home crowd.
Other standout performances included Bernard Kerr (GBR) winning the Mophie Fastest Charger award for the fastest time through the Creek Gap jump, while Dan Booker (AUS) was named BF Goodrich Rider of the Week despite being disqualified.
Theo Erlangsen Represents South Africa
South Africa’s Theo Erlangsen put in a solid performance, finishing 10th overall with a time of 3:27.307, just 10.211 seconds behind Goldstone. A seasoned Hardline competitor, Erlangsen is known for his aggressive riding style and ability to handle high-risk terrain. His top-10 finish cements his reputation as one of the world’s best downhill riders.
Erlangsen has consistently been a force in extreme downhill racing, and his performance in Tasmania adds another impressive result to his growing list of achievements. He continues to push the limits of South African mountain biking on the international stage, showcasing grit, skill, and precision.
Hemstreet Makes History in Women’s Category
After becoming the first woman to complete a top-to-bottom Hardline run in 2024, Canada’s Gracey Hemstreet delivered a historic performance to win the first-ever women’s category in a time of 4:06.465. The 20-year-old from British Columbia said:
“It was just what I wanted to do; be smooth and just have fun.”
With Hardline returning to Wales from July 26-27, the next showdown is already shaping up to be another unforgettable test of skill and bravery.
Final Standings – Red Bull Hardline Tasmania 2025
Top 10 Finishers
| Rank | Rider | Nation | Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jackson Goldstone | CAN | 3:17.096 | — |
| 2 | Asa Vermette | USA | 3:17.329 | +0.233 |
| 3 | Troy Brosnan | AUS | 3:19.479 | +2.383 |
| 4 | Bernard Kerr | GBR | 3:20.505 | +3.409 |
| 5 | Connor Fearon | AUS | 3:21.007 | +3.911 |
| 6 | Tuhoto-Ariki Pene | NZL | 3:22.367 | +5.271 |
| 7 | Sebastian Holguin | COL | 3:23.388 | +6.292 |
| 8 | Laurie Greenland | GBR | 3:26.667 | +9.571 |
| 9 | Charlie Hatton | GBR | 3:26.697 | +9.601 |
| 10 | Theo Erlangsen | RSA | 3:27.307 | +10.211 |
With Goldstone’s comeback victory, Vermette’s breakout performance, and Erlangsen’s strong showing, Red Bull Hardline Tasmania 2025 proved why it remains one of the most electrifying events in mountain biking.