Swatch Rocket Air – The Return of Sam Pilgrim
For the fifth time, the Flying Metal Crew is transforming the ice rink of Thun, Switzerland for the legendary Swatch Rocket Air. It’s all about flying bicycles this coming weekend. And Great Britain’s Sam Pilgrim, the 2013 champion, will be back. With a whole crew of British riders, the 23-year-old hopes to defend his title and take home the Team Battle trophy for the first time.
In 2013, Sam Pilgrim had the season of a lifetime. After winning last years Swatch Rocket Air, he went on to be crowned the FMB World Tour Champion. Landing on the podium at almost every event, it is no surprise that Pilgrim drew the attention of Swiss watch manufacturer, Swatch. This year, Pilgrim is proud to be part of the Swatch Pro Team. The fact that they choose him means a lot to Pilgrim: “It’s great, big outside sponsors like Swatch can really help boost the sport to new audiences and that’s what we all
want.” The first opportunity to prove himself will be at the 5th Swatch Rocket Air. Next weekend Pilgrim will be in Thun and he is already looking forward to the event: “It’s seriously one of my favourite events, there is a lot of time to practice, the course is always super fun and the after party is pretty legendary. I just have an amazing time when I’m there.” After the 2013 Swatch 
Rocket Air, the only thing missing for the Great Britain native was the Team Battle trophy. Last year, the Swedish and Canadians defeated the British team. With the support of Matt Jones, Daryl Brown, the Samson brothers, and Pilgrim of course, the British team is looking for redemption. The Team Battle will take place on Friday evening kicking off the adrenaline packed weekend. In the unofficial world championship, countries will compete in the semifinal to secure one of two spots chosen by the panel of judges. When it comes to the final, it’s all about who can make the most noise as the audience will decide who takes home this year’s Team Battle trophy.
Livestream on Red Bull Bike
The Swatch Rocket Air will be streamed live on redbull.com/bike as well as on our homepage. From 8pm CET, the contest final will be commentated by Ryan Meyer. Tuesday night 7pm, the Swatch Rocket Air will air on the swiss sports TV SSF. Side-Events: Like-a-Bike Race for the Young Guns “Moving” rather than “watching” is the theme of this year’s side events. Lots of excitement will be promised to the 2-5 year-olds and their families at their own Like-a-Bike Race event. In 2013, the kid’s race was an event highlight. “This year we had the idea of building a mini slopestyle course for the kids,” said organizer, Jérôme Hunziker. But with parents in mind, and the safety of the little ones, the Flying Metal Crew knew they couldn’t get that carried away. However, there will be a course built with some fun and safe obstacles to get kids moving. For the older spectators, the active zone will provide various activities such as Kids Parcours, Pump Track and Goldprint Race. There will also be a crew of Flatland BMX rider showcasing their talent outside the ice rink throughout the weekend. Those who want to improve their own BMX skills can attend a BMX Flatland Workshop, managed by the BMX Flatland Professionals.
About Swatch
Swatch, launched in 1983 by Nicolas G. Hayek, is a leading Swiss watch maker and one of the world’s most popular brands. The first Swatch watches surprised everyone with their revolutionary concept, creative design and provocative spirit. Today Swatch continues to innovate and surprise with new models, collections and special editions. The brand maintains a strong presence in the world of sports with its commitment to snowboarding, freeskiing, surfing, FMX, ice cross downhill and mountain biking. Right from the start, Swatch connected with art and artists, and Swatch watches remain a prominent canvas for artists from a broad range of disciplines.