The first full day of Simple Session went underway today, and it was an amazing day. Seeing this on hand for the first time it’s really been an amazing experience. This is truly an international competition of the highest caliber. People say it’s the X-Games of Europe, but atleast to me, it’s much different. As it started as a smaller contest, it has this amazing home grown feel to it, that absolutely cannot be replicated. With such an international cast and crew, I’m more inclined to say Simple Session is in a class of it’s own.

Since just about everyone will be inevitably blogging all the ACTION that went down today, I figured I’d take a different approach and show some of the people that are a part of the extended Quintin family. Don’t hate on me for taking iPhone photos… I love it.

Benny L is trully in a class of his own. He’s about as cool as it gets and well… you know… he’s really good at riding. Quintin UK!

Aaron Ross and Gabe Brooks. These guys are both Quintin USA, and I love this photo. No not because it’s such a good photo that you’d never believe it was shot with an iPhone, but because it really highlights their differences and I think it speaks to their riding style.

This was the first time I actually got to meet Willem Van Gansen. He’s a pretty amazing guy, and have you had a chance to check this out yet??? Look for more with Willem, as he’s an absolutely monster of a rider. Quintin Belgium!

Dillon Lloyd had a pretty great day today. It’s been really cool getting to know him better, as we’ve had limited conversations with each other in the past. Quintin Canada!

Shawn Macintosh is definitely one of my favorite Long Beach dudes.

Tony Neyer wrapped up a monster 2011 and it looks like 2012 will be more of the same. Plus, if they ever did a contemporary remake of Dazed and Confused, he could totally pull off Wooderson.

Simone Barraco, what a beast! Haha, remember when we did this? And then this happened? You’re still the man, Simone!!!

It’s always a pleasure chopping it up with Brian Kachinsky. Plus he’s from Chicago… which is the best city in the world during the summer. Tony Neyer sighting!

Dave Duncan! Yo thanks a ton for the shout outs today…it was MUCH appreciated!

Brecht is our Belgium distributor. That means he drinks good beer on the daily! He’s an amazing gatekeeper to have as part of the Quintin family.

Nickolay is our Russian distributor. He’s been with us for awhile, and it’s always good times with Nickolay. Can’t wait to see your hood, homie!

A quick shout out to Risto over at Simple Session – thanks for letting us do your hats!

Also, another shout out to Catfish and Darryl, you guys are players!!! Thanks for the announcer love today for us and Gabe!

And a big thanks to everyone that rocks Quintin, you guys make this type of stuff possible for us!!!

Tomorrow will be crazier than today, so make sure to check out the live feed right here.

After a few years in the background Willem exploded on the Belgian and European scene this year. Always motivated to ride any kind of spot, whether it’s a concrete park, a ditch or huge set of trails. He will cruise it like he’s local and with tons of flow and style. We are stoked to welcome Willem into the worldwide QNTN posse.