3 Minute Gaps in Photos

by Sven Martin
May 25, 2011 at 18:07


Clay Porter and John Lawlor before this project even started. Towards the end of 2008 they began to formulate plans on what would become 3 Minute Gaps. Too big a project for just one person, they joined forces and have been working on 3MG ever since.
  Clay Porter and John Lawlor before this project even started. Towards the end of 2008 they began to formulate plans on what would become 3 Minute Gaps. Too big a project for just one person, they joined forces and have been working on 3MG ever since.


3MG spans the 2009 and 2010 race seasons, from Greg Minnaar's winning run in Pietermaritzburg, to Gee Atherton's winning final run at the close of the 2010 season. 14 World Cups and two World Championships. The film is able to follow an ongoing story like Gee bitterly losing at Ft. Bill in 2009, then making amends with a win in 2010. This film is more than just race clips, you really get a feel of what these riders are going through over the years.
  3MG spans the 2009 and 2010 race seasons, from Greg Minnaar's winning run in Pietermaritzburg, to Gee Atherton's winning final run at the close of the 2010 season. 14 World Cups and two World Championships. The film is able to follow an ongoing story like Gee bitterly losing at Ft. Bill in 2009, then making amends with a win in 2010. This film is more than just race clips, you really get a feel of what these riders are going through over the years.


Greg Minnaar is featured battling heavily for the World Cup and World Championship title in both 2009 and 2010 and narrowly missing out each year for both titles. Champery 2010, rainy qualifiers.
  Greg Minnaar is featured battling heavily for the World Cup and World Championship title in both 2009 and 2010 and narrowly missing out each year for both titles. Champery 2010, rainy qualifiers.


Yes this is a race film, but if you are a true race fan you will appreciate being taken deeper behind the scenes in 3MG. You won't find all the detail, drama and stories that 3MG explores in the weekly World Cup web edits...
  Yes this is a race film, but if you are a true race fan you will appreciate being taken deeper behind the scenes in 3MG. You won't find all the detail, drama and stories that 3MG explores in the weekly World Cup web edits...


Sam has had plenty of highs and lows the last two years from his massive crash after this scrub in Andorra 2009, to his World Champs last year in Mt St Anne. He always rides on the throttle and for a filmer or photographer there is nothing better. One of my favorite shots of last year is this gondola shot of outgoing 2009 World Champ, Steve Peat, looking down on the future World Champ on the final practice day in Canada. What would you give to read both of their thoughts right then?
  Sam has had plenty of highs and lows the last two years from his massive crash after this scrub in Andorra 2009, to his World Champs last year in Mt St Anne. He always rides on the throttle and for a filmer or photographer there is nothing better. One of my favorite shots of last year is this gondola shot of outgoing 2009 World Champ, Steve Peat, looking down on the future World Champ on the final practice day in Canada. What would you give to read both of their thoughts right then?


To get a closer look at these riders in their environments, Clay and Lawlor traveled all around the world multiple times. They visited Sam Hill at his home in Perth, Australia earlier this year for some filming on his local tracks and a closer look at how he lives. I remember a young Sam Hill sleeping on my floor in 2003 living the dream. Needless to say he is not sleeping on floors anymore...
  To get a closer look at these riders in their environments, Clay and Lawlor traveled all around the world multiple times. They visited Sam Hill at his home in Perth, Australia earlier this year for some filming on his local tracks and a closer look at how he lives. I remember a young Sam Hill sleeping on my floor in 2003 living the dream. Needless to say he is not sleeping on floors anymore...


Ben Reid, Josh Bryceland, Danny Hart and Matti Lehikoinen all have parts in 3MG. You couldn't pick a better mix of diverse riders and characters. Ben Reid: Schladming 2009, Josh Bryceland: Leogang 2010, Danny Hart: Val Di Sole 2010 and Matti Lehikoinen: Leogang 2010.
  Ben Reid, Josh Bryceland, Danny Hart and Matti Lehikoinen all have parts in 3MG. You couldn't pick a better mix of diverse riders and characters. Ben Reid: Schladming 2009, Josh Bryceland: Leogang 2010, Danny Hart: Val Di Sole 2010 and Matti Lehikoinen: Leogang 2010.


Gee Atherton, nothing else to say really. You don't have to get him to do too many things twice, so don't believe him if he tells you I like to make him push off for
  Gee Atherton, nothing else to say really. You don't have to get him to do too many things twice, so don't believe him if he tells you I like to make him push off for "one more."


Everybody's favorite bike handler both in and out of the race jersey. Brendan Fairclough's part is filmed in a few different locations over a period of time. You get to see him hitting his local downhills and trails with his friends as well some North American spots. Any guesses where this is?
  Everybody's favorite bike handler both in and out of the race jersey. Brendan Fairclough's part is filmed in a few different locations over a period of time. You get to see him hitting his local downhills and trails with his friends as well some North American spots. Any guesses where this is?


Brendan has that smooth lazy effortless style that no matter how hard you try, you just can't emulate. From California to A-Line, Brendan likes to fly.
  Brendan has that smooth lazy effortless style that no matter how hard you try, you just can't emulate. From California to A-Line, Brendan likes to fly.


You have already seen a glimpse of Aaron Gwin's part in his behind the scenes segment, here is another tease as he breaks loose near his house in Temecula California. If you love high speed, big fadeaways, scrubs, bonks and the odd massive huck, you won't be disappointed by America's newest golden boy.
  You have already seen a glimpse of Aaron Gwin's part in his behind the scenes segment, here is another tease as he breaks loose near his house in Temecula California. If you love high speed, big fadeaways, scrubs, bonks and the odd massive huck, you won't be disappointed by America's newest golden boy.


As winter set in the Northern Hemisphere, we made our way over to New Zealand to film with the loose and stylish young Kiwi, Samuel Blenkinsop. Filmed at some of the best DH spots on New Zealand's North Island, you are going to want to book your tickets after seeing 3MG. Riders don't hold back while filming, Sam had his two biggest crashes of the year (and that was after a whole World Cup season) while filming over the week.
  As winter set in the Northern Hemisphere, we made our way over to New Zealand to film with the loose and stylish young Kiwi, Samuel Blenkinsop. Filmed at some of the best DH spots on New Zealand's North Island, you are going to want to book your tickets after seeing 3MG. Riders don't hold back while filming, Sam had his two biggest crashes of the year (and that was after a whole World Cup season) while filming over the week.


The Southern Hemisphere was calling yet again for an extended summer of filming. This time it was with Andrew Neethling in Cape Town, South Africa. Andrew was one of the first riders Clay filmed with in his earlier movies. It's great to see how far they have both come with their respective crafts.
  The Southern Hemisphere was calling yet again for an extended summer of filming. This time it was with Andrew Neethling in Cape Town, South Africa. Andrew was one of the first riders Clay filmed with in his earlier movies. It's great to see how far they have both come with their respective crafts.


3 Minute Gaps is about stories. Some of them, like Dan Atherton's here, will have quite an impact on you. From injury to recovery, rehab, and the first few times back on the bike, Clay lets you get a glimpse into the side of professional sport that you rarely see. Dan is easily one of the most dedicated and focused individuals out there. Welcome back Affy.
  3 Minute Gaps is about stories. Some of them, like Dan Atherton's here, will have quite an impact on you. From injury to recovery, rehab, and the first few times back on the bike, Clay lets you get a glimpse into the side of professional sport that you rarely see. Dan is easily one of the most dedicated and focused individuals out there. Welcome back Affy.


One of the last trips for the filming of 3MG was a return trip to New Zealand in March, this time we headed to Queenstown on the South Island. Queenstown is rapidly becoming the go to spot while the Northern Hemisphere is caked in snow. So many spots to choose from, each one more scenic than the next. Dan up above Coronet and Snow Park trails.
  One of the last trips for the filming of 3MG was a return trip to New Zealand in March, this time we headed to Queenstown on the South Island. Queenstown is rapidly becoming the go to spot while the Northern Hemisphere is caked in snow. So many spots to choose from, each one more scenic than the next. Dan up above Coronet and Snow Park trails.


Clockwise: Wellington, NZ with Sam Blenkinsop. F-Stop gear is good for carrying more than just cameras. Filmer's Lawlor, John Reynolds and Clay after another successful sunset shoot with Gwin. Out in Africa.
  Clockwise: Wellington, NZ with Sam Blenkinsop. F-Stop gear is good for carrying more than just cameras. Filmer's Lawlor, John Reynolds and Clay after another successful sunset shoot with Gwin. Out in Africa.


The World Premiere is in less than two weeks, are you ready? Andrew Neethling closing it down on the Southern tip of Africa.
  The World Premiere is in less than two weeks, are you ready? Andrew Neethling closing it down on the Southern tip of Africa.

© 3MG / Sven Martin

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3 Minute Gaps - Official Trailer on pinkbike.com

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69 Comments

  • + 35
flag brule  (May 25, 2011 at 21:54)
 Amazing imagery Sven, looks like Clay and Lawlor have put in the time for a great movie that I can't wait to see. Blenky has a pretty sweet shuttle set up too!
  • + 17
flag Tader16 (May 26, 2011 at 8:14)
 so many PODS!!!!!!!!!!
  • + 6
flag stinker (May 26, 2011 at 10:57)
 podadadadad (pic of the day after day after day after day) Smile
  • + 1
flag dave6797 (May 26, 2011 at 12:37)
 WHEN IS THIS OUT ON DVD?!?!!?
  • + 2
flag lewspeight (May 26, 2011 at 13:46)
 Anybody know what gloves BrenDog has on? The plain white ones...
  • + 2
flag aoneal (May 26, 2011 at 14:12)
 I do believe I forgot to blink looking through this eye candy. 100% SICK
  • + 3
flag IrishTom (May 26, 2011 at 14:24)
 @ Lew, I think they are Marigolds.
  • + 1
flag lewspeight (May 26, 2011 at 16:30)
 Thanks Tom, any idea where i can get some?
  • + 1
flag McDonnell (May 26, 2011 at 18:32)
 i think they might be POC
  • + 1
flag g1701gst  (May 26, 2011 at 19:14)
 to bad aaron gwin dosnt ride for yeti anymore, such s shame
  • + 1
flag PlumStick13-Magnus (May 27, 2011 at 5:11)
 far too excited for this!!!
[Reply]
  • + 32
flag Ollie-J (May 26, 2011 at 0:37)
 Well POD is sorted for atleast two weeks
[Reply]
  • + 15
flag WAKIdesigns (May 26, 2011 at 1:48)
 There is just one word coming well with this picture with the girl pushing the bike for Blenkinsop... WINNING !
[Reply]
  • + 9
flag j-peters  (May 26, 2011 at 0:41)
 Holy shit, that might of been the single best story I've seen published here on PB. Killin' it Sven.
[Reply]
  • + 10
flag FindlayReade (May 26, 2011 at 0:30)
 Affy is a machine.
  • + 3
flag nv2468 (May 26, 2011 at 4:26)
 Agreed.
[Reply]
  • + 5
flag Gav0909 (May 26, 2011 at 3:19)
 I am in one of those photos. The photo of Gee at Fort William last year, the guy in the UCI chaperone bib with the white sunnies, that's me! Got my ticket for the premiere all sorted, so stoked, just a week to go!
  • + 1
flag jackmackenzie95 (May 26, 2011 at 10:11)
 do you need a specific ticket to watch the premiere?
  • + 1
flag Gav0909 (May 27, 2011 at 5:34)
 Yeah you have to buy tickets for it. You can get them from www.thebooth.co.uk, there are two showings on the 2nd June.
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag cikudh (May 26, 2011 at 0:30)
 i like! "I remember a young Sam Hill sleeping on my floor in 2003 living the dream. Needless to say he is not sleeping on floors anymore..."

Clay Porter & Lawlor & 3MG Crew..... amazing
[Reply]
  • + 5
flag davidstuartkelly (May 26, 2011 at 0:39)
 Those pics are in my opinion the best PINK BIKE has done, for once i am lost for words.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag moufmylawn (May 26, 2011 at 20:16)
 If you want to read a review of 3 Minute Gaps in French, visit ipedro.ca , they give insight about the film.
Si vous aimeriez lire une critique du film 3 Minute Gaps en français, visitez ipedro.ca, ils donnent une bonne description du film.
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag mikelevy  (May 26, 2011 at 9:36)
 Absolutely amazing photos, Sven. Loving the bits on insight in the captions, it really brings so much to this article. Thanks for the inside look at 3MG!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag HellslayeR (May 26, 2011 at 2:06)
 Well, i just felt these kind of feeling when i first saw the Life Cycles trailer, but this feeling comes again now. It means if this will be in the Cinema / or HD movie here in Hungary i will go and watch it no matter what is going on!
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag jackmackenzie95 (May 26, 2011 at 10:12)
 anyone know what those white and orange gloves are that brendan fairclough has on?
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag DownhillDomination (May 26, 2011 at 0:23)
 If the movie is of as high quality as these pictures, I'm f*ckin' keen!
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag Downhill340 (May 26, 2011 at 0:22)
 90% of those shots could have been PODS.
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag patmills (May 26, 2011 at 1:35)
 YYYEEEEAAAAAHHH!!!!! it makes me want to get out n ride everything and anything
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag fullbug (May 26, 2011 at 11:34)
 i am convinced that DH is the bad-ass of all cycling disciplines.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag akosituper (May 26, 2011 at 2:21)
 i like the photo...of the girl pushes blinky's bike...i wonder is that his girlfriend or crew????
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag rbka (May 27, 2011 at 7:16)
 i hope this movie is over 4 hours long.... seriously. the more footage the better. these pics are gorgeous.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag caste1200 (May 26, 2011 at 3:02)
 is it gonna be available for download?. i wanted HD but i dont have a bluray!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag downhillryan (May 26, 2011 at 18:02)
 anyone know if it will be showing in cinemas in nz like some of the other big mtb films???
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Rhomzzz  (May 26, 2011 at 10:00)
 Awesome photos! what kind of Video camera is the guy using in the first photo?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mrmars  (May 26, 2011 at 6:07)
 such amazing photos, cant wait for the movie. i wanna see a coffee table photo book with these films id buy it in a second.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag bh3x  (May 26, 2011 at 0:47)
 Amazing pics... and really great project... we want more!!! Wink ... which is the next one ?
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag boulder174 (May 26, 2011 at 0:43)
 love the pic with Peaty looking back at Hill.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag vinny4130 (May 26, 2011 at 10:04)
 i would guess tld, but what are Brendan's gloves?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag dennisbarrera (May 26, 2011 at 1:00)
 amazing photos! so glad i pre ordered this!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag TAridingMTB (May 26, 2011 at 1:57)
 looking forward to this, some sweet images too, great article pb Smile
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag LifeCycles  (May 26, 2011 at 11:37)
 Ya boyz can't wait, those stills are beauty. -Gibb
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag BBen30 (May 30, 2011 at 1:19)
 they should have a competition for most PODs in a article Wink
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag commencal4x (May 27, 2011 at 3:01)
 does anybody know which camera they used?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Flitschbirne (May 27, 2011 at 2:01)
 Just wow! Some pictures go on my desktop for sure...
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag shijinkamisai (May 26, 2011 at 9:17)
 looks sweet

i want that camera in the first pick though
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag nightfox (May 27, 2011 at 20:24)
 This is the best post in a while... wow ! so many epic pictures!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag ctmtbgirl (May 26, 2011 at 9:56)
 amazing photography !! The colors and shots are fantastic
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag christopher-berry (May 26, 2011 at 0:35)
 Stunning shots!!!! just like always..love it!!!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag andywild (May 26, 2011 at 6:11)
 POD's for the rest of May and most of June...! Greatness!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag bannana0 (May 26, 2011 at 8:44)
 3 minute gaps in photos = time lapse. Razz

this looks rad!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag chazdog (May 26, 2011 at 4:07)
 Three minute Gaps in PODs more like.

sweet!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag way2fast4u (May 26, 2011 at 7:02)
 3MG looks amazing! Can't wait! It's going to be good!
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag orvorvorv (May 26, 2011 at 0:20)
 wow
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag hugslyh (May 26, 2011 at 8:15)
 even my mum said omg that looks soo good!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag teamdoa (May 26, 2011 at 7:33)
 Amazing pictures, can't wait for this.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag andytheaussie (May 27, 2011 at 4:41)
 Where's Peaty?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag romich (May 26, 2011 at 1:45)
 want the full video
  • + 1
flag livewire711 (May 26, 2011 at 4:03)
 same ...thats F****** EPIC !
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Internetbiker (May 26, 2011 at 2:33)
 I really can't wait!!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag hoolydooly (May 26, 2011 at 0:42)
 when does this come out?
  • + 1
flag LiamRenaut (May 26, 2011 at 1:10)
 June, says it in the video...
  • + 1
flag hoolydooly (May 26, 2011 at 2:53)
 ok thanks, i thought i might have been july and wasn't sure if it would be out for summer gravity camp.
  • + 1
flag brule  (May 26, 2011 at 9:19)
 Premiere is next week at Pt.William, but the DVDs should be in July.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag jcook1989 (May 26, 2011 at 12:06)
 When are DVDs shipping?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Forrest66 (May 26, 2011 at 1:05)
 10/10 on order now
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag MiYeii (May 26, 2011 at 0:51)
 exciting movie!!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag dtrainmiller (May 26, 2011 at 0:51)
 MANY pods here Smile
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Maverickdh00 (May 26, 2011 at 17:14)
 WOW
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag lamin666 (May 26, 2011 at 4:32)
 Amazing photography!!
[Reply]

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