Brook MacDonald on the 2024 season with SRAM
With the first Crankworx World Tour event of the season, Crankworx Rotorua, just around the corner, we caught up with Brook MacDonald, aka ‘The Bulldog’ for his tenacity on the trails. As a multiple-time Crankworx Downhill winner and a proud Rotorua local, Brook’s connection to the event runs deep.
Set to compete in the Rockshox Taniwha Downhill, MacDonald shared his training routine, highlighting how the local environment has significantly contributed to his readiness for the event: “Lots of riding, to be honest, a lot more than I would normally do. So it’s been super good.” Brook also shared that his full RockShox SRAM setup is new, with a SRAM XO drive chain along with the new Maven Brakes, coupled with the RockShox BOXXER Ultimate and the Super Deluxe shock.
Speaking on Rotorua, we asked Brook what makes Crankworx Rotorua, which is gearing up to celebrate its 10-year anniversary, “the soul of Crankworx.” He shared: “I think with the local culture in, you are welcomed with some of the warmest welcomes, combined with the welcome from the Māori culture to make the experience of Rotorua that much better. I’m keen to see what they have in store for the 10-year anniversary but really looking forward to a good turnout, great weather, and great racing of course.”
Fresh off the heels of the first edition of Red Bull Hardline Tasmania, we were keen to hear MacDonald’s take on the event and his experience with the RockShox BOXXER Ultimate. Describing it as one of the best events “with just everything there,” he praised the event for its good vibes, ride sessions, and challenging races with high-stakes features.
Although new to Rockshox, the brand has already left a lasting impact on the rider: “I’m new to RockShox; the last time I ran them, I won junior world champs, but times have changed, and technology is a lot different now. The change has been really good, and they are super simple to set up. I feel they are super consistent and have that nice buttery feel, not just for a weekend but for countless days in the bike park.”
With 2024 already off to a strong start for Brook MacDonald, he is primed and ready to showcase his skills on the Crankworx stage once again. Be sure to tune in to Red Bull TV from March 16-24, 2024, to witness firsthand the excitement and thrills of Crankworx Rotorua.