Fabien and his Hutchinson United ride compatriots made a trip out to New Zealand to escape the French winter wonderland in preparation for their 2012 World Cup Downhill season. With the New Zealand Cup race taking place in Wellington, on what proved to be a challenging and fun track for the riders, Fabien and team mate Guillaume stamped their authority on the field with Fabien taking the top spot on the Elite mens podium and Guillaume rounding out in 4th spot on the U19 Mens category.