Chris Kovarik (born 1 March 1978 in Dandenong, Victoria, Australia) is an Australian professional racing cyclist specialising in downhill mountain biking and four cross mountain bike racing.
Kovarik was joined by fellow Intense rider Finland's Matti Lehikoinen for the 2010 race season.
[citation needed] In 2004, Kovarik shattered his ankle, broke the tibia on the same leg and spent 4½ months with a metal cage around his leg, leading to 7 months off the bike and missing the 2004 World Cup/Championship season.
At the time, doctors had said that he may never ride again, however, he went on to place 5th in the World Championships in New Zealand in 2005.
[citation needed] In 2008 Kovarik married teammate and fellow downhill mountain Bike rider, Canadian Claire Buchar.