Look Mom No Hands
Long Way Down
Puerto Vallarta’s streets transformed into a playground of pure chaos and speed this past weekend for the Downhill Mountain Bike event. Riders from all over Mexico and beyond ripped down the urban jungle—dodging cobblestones, vaulting stairs, and bombing through tight alleys like human missiles on two wheels. The energy was electric, with crowds roaring from every rooftop and corner. As a Puerto Vallarta local who’s no stranger to capturing action in sports photography, I grabbed my camera for my first-ever MTB shoot. Spoiler: it was a blistering, unforgettable baptism under a yellow hot sun.
Who Brought The Cervesa!!!
The day may have only been a few hours but in the 30 degree sun and limited shade, it felt like eternity. The streets were crowded and filled with excitement as the race began. Although it started up at the top by the cross and Mirador del la Cruz, the main action for the public was down on the closed off streets of Centro Puerto Vallarta and the Malecon.
I roamed all over weaving between the crowds of people, and closed off crossings. Thankfully I brought my long lens so I could hang back and capture the high flying bikers.
Tech I used: Nikon Z7 II with a Tamron 35-135mm f2.2 I love the versatility of this lens, however its not always the fastest at focusing for sports and action.
I hope these images give you a sense of that action and the fun that was had on the streets of Puerto Vallarta.
