This year, the first ever Nissan Qashqai Urban Challenge brought together 15 of the world’s top urban freeriders to take on five European cities over five weekends to win 50,000 euros - the biggest prize money ever in this sport.

Five different events in five cities: North Shore in Newcastle, Dirt in Milan, Street in Madrid, Park in Cologne, and Big Air in Paris. Judges awarded points to the riders based on how well they did in each different event.

One of the largest crowds of the event series gathered in Paris, France on June 24 for the series finale. Darren Berrecloth (aka “Bearclaw”) of B.C. Canada and Paul Basagoitia of Nevada, USA, had been locked in a tight battle for first place throughout the competition.

After five events of back-and-forth, Darren Berrecloth was able to edge out Paul Basagoitia by one point in the overall standings. Paul placed fourth in Paris, which gave Bearclaw the overall win. The first-ever mountain bike freeride world series title and a check for 50,000 euros were handed over to Darren Berrecloth, along with a three liter bottle of champagne.

It was an incredibly cool event. Check out the website with great video clips from each of the five events.

This event really has nothing to do with women in cycling, but it was hot and chicks dig it.