Vinny Mannino: I think it was in 2008, my friend Scotty (Cranmer) went for the first time. I remember watching the webcast of the contest and telling myself, this is one contest that I would love to ride in.
Did you have to look on a map to find out where Estonia actually was? Vinny Mannino: Haha, I did! I had a general idea of where it was, but if you asked me to point it out on a map I would have been stumped.
Now you’re on the riders list, how does that make you feel?
Vinny Mannino: It is definitely awesome to see my name on the rider list, considering how many amazing riders will be there from all over the world.
What was your first impression when you saw the drawings of the 2014 course?
Vinny Mannino: I thought it looked so sick. It has a good mix of big stuff, as well as some street and a bunch of hips. I can’t wait to get out there and ride it.
When do you first get to ride the set up? Any obstacle in particular that you want to hit up first thing? Vinny Mannino: I haven’t seen the schedule for practice yet so I’m not sure when I get to ride it. The box jump caught my eye right off the bat, it looked real big and that is something I really enjoy riding, but honestly I can’t wait to ride the entire course.
Making finals will be tough in a strong field like this. How do you see your chances?
Vinny Mannino: There are so many talented riders these days, so it’s tough to say. I am actually out right now recovering from a broken foot and still can’t ride yet. I think I am going to have about just under two weeks to get ready before I fly out, so it is going to be tough for sure, but I am going to just go out and enjoy myself and ride like I know I can ride and hopefully things will work out. Either way it will be a good time and will be sick to see friends from all over and get to ride together with them.
With the live webcast thousands of people will be watching you ride, plus about 2000 pretty girls will be there in person. Are you getting nervous yet? Vinny Mannino: No I don’t think so, not yet at least haha.
Who is your pick for first place this year?
Vinny Mannino: It is so hard to pick one person! The progression these days is just insane, so it could be anyone honestly. A few names that stick out would be Drew Bezanson, Kevin Peraza, Logan Martin and Harry Main.
Do you have any people you want to thank for making it to Simple Session 2014?
Vinny Mannino: Just a big thank you to my family, friends and my sponsors DK Bicycles and
Gatorade for all of their continued support. I couldn’t have done it without them.
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.