In their own words: “This is it. 2011. The year that counts for SCOTT11.”

That’s because all eyes will turn on the Swiss-based downhill team when the World Championships kick-off in Champéry, Switzerland, in August.

First there’s a full World Cup season to contest, and SCOTT11’s athletes are continuing their winter preparations ahead of the opening event in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, on April 23-24. 

Nick Beer has prioritised his fitness by logging miles on his road bike instead of spending the winter skiing. Fabien Pedemanaud spent hours at the gym weightlifting and strengthening his shoulder after a surgery in October. Emilie Siegenthaler left Switzerland during the winter months to concentrate on riding her downhill bike in New Zealand.

And Floriane Pugin, Freddy Hunziker, Adrian Weiss and Mirco Weiss all spent the winter at home, but enjoyed the benefits of being able to train through this year’s relatively mild, dry Swiss winter.

To follow the team, head to www.scott11racing.com