A new era of freeride royalty has arrived. Darkfest 2025, South Africa’s premier big air mountain biking spectacle, saw Matt MacDuff (Canada) and Chelsea Kimball (USA) claim the coveted titles of King and Queen of Darkfest. Hosted at the legendary Hellsend Dirt Compound in the Vuurberg mountains near Stellenbosch, this year’s edition delivered six adrenaline-fueled days of high-flying tricks, insane style, and pure stoke.
Presented by freeride icon Sam Reynolds, the ninth installment of Darkfest defied the elements—despite heavy rain limiting some sessions, the energy remained sky-high as the world’s top freeriders took to the course to push the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels.
Rider-Voted Royalty
Darkfest’s core is progression and community, and it’s only fitting that its top honours are rider-voted. MacDuff, known for his fearless riding and creative lines, was handed the crown by outgoing King Elias Ruso, who despite being sidelined by injury, stayed to support the action. Kimball stood out with power and precision to earn her Queen title in an increasingly competitive women’s field.
Standout Moments and Awards
Alongside the royal crowning, riders were recognised across multiple categories:
- Muc-Off Filthiest Whip:
Vinny Armstrong (NZL) & Alessio Tonoli (SUI) - Dewalt Best Moment:
Lucy Vaneesteren (UK) & Finley Kirschenmann (USA) + Talus Turk (USA) - Kenda Mind Bender (Best Trick):
Robin Goomes (NZL) – Backflip Can-Can | Kaidan Ingersoll (USA) – 360° Downside Whip - Insta360 Best Run:
Vaea Verbeeck (CAN) & Bienve Aguado (ESP) - Insta360 Hotshot Award (Most Creative):
Jack Schliemann (RSA)
The Official Highlight Video: A Must-Watch
“Could heaven be a place on Earth? If you’re a freerider, then the answer is yes!”
Sam Reynolds teased it best:
Darkfest 2025’s official highlight edit is 27 minutes of pure freeride madness, showcasing world-class talent, gravity-defying jumps, and cinematic visuals that capture the soul of the sport.
Featuring riders: Sam Reynolds, Matt MacDuff, Chelsea Kimball, Vero Sandler, Vaea Verbeeck, Bienvenido Aguado, Clemens Kaudela, Ike Klaassen, Kaos Seagrave, Robin Goomes, Theo Erlangsen, Reed Boggs, Tomas Lemoine, Brendan Fairclough, Dylan Stark, and many more.
Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just discovering the freeride scene, this year’s edition is not to be missed.
Watch the Darkfest 2025 Highlights Video now and witness MTB history being made—big air, big tricks, and even bigger vibes.
All photo’s in the gallery are by Syo van Vliet & Eric Palmer:
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