Beauty in motion

MAGALIESBERG, SOUTH AFRICA

In the build-up to the 2014 Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour final at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Spain’s Maikel Melero went game-watching at the Glen Afric Country Lodge wildlife sanctuary. The lions and elephants stayed clear of the big-air jumps, but one of the giraffes expressed an interest in his one-handed seat grab indy. Melero went on to finish the Tour in 10th place, as top spot was taken by Australia’s Josh Sheehan ahead of Levi Sherwood of New Zealand.

MAUI, USA

The double loop is the most spectacular trick in windsurfing: a double forward somersault, complete with board and sail, which requires a steep wave and forceful forearms. Philip Köster was just 13 when he pulled off his first double loop and he became the youngest-ever PWA Wave world champ four years later. Now 20, this season the German is going for his third world title, which will include conquering the epic Ho’okipa Beach Park waves he’s practising his tricks on here. His recipe for success? “Never look at the scoreboard. Just get in the water and give it your all.”

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

B-Boy Spolo takes to the floor at the Red Bull BC One Austria Cypher earlier this year, but all eyes will turn to Paris on November 29 when the Red Bull BC One World Final returns to the City of Light. With France producing two previous world champions – Lilou in 2005 and 2009, and Mounir in 2012 – the French capital boasts one of the most dynamic and accomplished B-Boy scenes in the world. Six regional finals, held in the USA, Brazil, Algeria, Finland, Croatia and Taiwan, will determine who gets the right to throw down on the biggest stage in breaking.