After watching a few videos it yeah seems many riders hate the flat pedally' part, but in my own opinion I think there should be more tracks like it. It sort of splits the riders who can get by with no pedalling involved and the others that have certainly put in the hard yards and are in extremely good shape.
I am not saying the UCI DH guys, and women for that matter are unfit or strong by any means, but by throwing in a rather large pedally section, much like the one in South Africa, I think it will sort of toss up the racing, and certainly pick out racers weaknesses. Certainly will make this race interesting with what could be at the end of the season, valuable points up for grab this weekend.
That is just my opinion, many people will disagree I know, but yeah I think it makes for a more interesting race, as far as results go.
That said definitely will be backing Mick Hannah, has already proved he has the goods and hopefully come race day he will take the top step. Fingers crossed Sam has been doing a lot of XC in the off season and that he can pull something out and get on the podium. Hopefully Troy can take the top spot too.
Going to be a great season with everyone back, most certainly has been way to long-a-wait for the 2011 season.