California’s Sea Otter Classic (or “Sea Otter Classic Powered By SRAM” to give it its full sponsor-friendly name) has, over the years, become the de facto world race season opener. It’s not part of the World Cup or anything, but being the first sizable event on the calendar makes it an attractive debut for new teams, bikes and other shiny things.

And if Sea Otter performance is any indicator of World Cup performance, Tracy Moseley’s in for a good year. Riding for Team Kona Clarks, she won the SoBe Adrenaline Pro Downhill on a damp and tricky course, with Tai-Lee Muxlow (Tioga/Orange) second and Marla Streb (Luna Chix) third.

In the mens’ race, old hand Mike King (Haro/Lee Dungarees) showed the young ‘uns how it’s done. Cedric Gracia (Siemens Mobile-Cannondale) and Mick Hannah (Haro/Lee Dungarees) were second and third.