Get ready for an exhilarating journey with Sam Soriano's latest adventure! The raw truth about freeriding is about to be unveiled, and it's not for the faint-hearted.
In her newest edit, 'Groundwork', Sam takes us on a ride through the intense world of freeriding, offering a unique glimpse into the mind and the hard work that goes into creating and conquering these extreme lines.
But here's where it gets controversial... Sam, a renowned figure in the freeride scene, dares to challenge the status quo. With a background in BMX and downhill racing, she found her true calling in freeride, and her honesty about the mental game sets her apart.
'Groundwork' showcases Sam's biggest project yet: building and riding a full freeride line inspired by the legendary Red Bull Rampage. This event is the ultimate test for big mountain riders, and Sam is determined to prove her mettle.
"2024 was a groundbreaking year for women's freeride," Sam shares. "The inclusion of a women's category in Red Bull Rampage finally gave female riders the global recognition they deserved. I witnessed firsthand the intricate process of constructing and riding a Rampage line, and I knew I had to step up my game if I wanted to be taken seriously as a contender."
And this is the part most people miss... Building these features is not just a physical challenge; it's an emotional rollercoaster. Sam reveals that "guinea pigging" - testing your own creations - is one of the most overlooked yet emotionally demanding aspects of the sport.
"I wanted to build features that would push my riding skills while being mindful of safety. With the help of my incredible team of mentors, we designed a double drop followed by a flat drop at the end of my favorite ridgeline, now known as 'Powerline'."
Despite not making it into Rampage this year, Sam's project was an incredible learning experience. "It taught me so much about what it takes to be a true freerider, and I'm incredibly proud of what we achieved," she says.
Watch the full 8-minute video on Sam's YouTube channel to witness her journey. You can also access the full press kit and video assets via the provided links.
Sam rides a custom Canyon Torque AL (size S), equipped with top-of-the-line components. For more insights into her world, follow her on Instagram @samathasorian0, and stay tuned for more adventures from Canyon's freeride athletes by following @canyonMTB.
