16/08/2025
WGSF Launches Rider Development with Wind Tunnel Testing Day at Silverstone
The World Gravity Sports Federation (WGSF) has announced its first ever Rider Development Day, taking place on Sunday 12th October 2025 at the prestigious Silverstone Sports Hub. This groundbreaking event will give downhill and gravity sports athletes the opportunity to test and optimise their aerodynamics in a professional wind tunnel environment — the same kind of facility used by elite motorsport and cycling teams.
The WGSF Development Day: Wind Tunnel Testing at Silverstone will run from 9am–3pm, with riders arriving from 8am for briefing. Places are strictly limited to 15 riders and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Participants will have at least two full sessions in the wind tunnel, starting with a baseline test before comparing variations in tuck position, equipment, helmet choice, leathers, and fairings. Each run will be precisely measured for drag, surface area, and downforce over a 10-second period, with side-by-side photo and video comparisons for each setup.
“Having tested the tunnel myself earlier this year, I was blown away by the data and how much difference even small changes can make,” said Will Stephenson, WGSF Director and event coordinator. “This is the start of what we want WGSF to be doing — supporting research and development that benefits riders directly, and ultimately pushes the sport forward.”
The cost for the day is £299 for WGSF members and £350 for non-members, which includes:
- At least two wind tunnel sessions
- Electronic copies of all test data and results
- Photos and videos from each run
- Expert support from Silverstone staff and on-site coordination by Will Stephenson
Registration opens on Wednesday 20th August 2025 via the WGSF website, and will close as soon as the 15 spots are filled. Once registered, riders will be sent a Google Form to detail what equipment and positions they want to test.
For further inquiries:
Will Stephenson – Event Coordinator
[email protected]