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Moto News Weekly for July 30, 2019

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What happened this week

• Febvre & Prado win 2019 Czech MXGP
• Bidzans & Marek crowned EMX champions at Loket
• Courtney Duncan tops WMX in Loket
• Tomac & Cianciarulo dominate Washougal National
• Riders talk Moree Round 8 – Pirelli MX Nationals 2019
• Kyle Middleton takes fourth Australian X-Trial title
• Jacob Thorssell claims Scandinavian FIM Speedway GP wild card
• Charles Wright to wildcard British FIM Speedway GP
• Sherco’s Michael Metge wins 2019 Baja Spain Aragón
• 2019 Red Bull Romaniacs about to kick off
• AORC heads to Broken Hill for Round 7 – Aug 10-11
• Husqvarna sign 125cc Junior Champ Mattia Guadagnini
• 2019 Australian Junior Dirt entries open
• Kristie Mckinnon joins Australian 2019 Trial des Nations team

Febvre & Prado win 2019 Czech MXGP

The 2019 MXGP Championship landed in the Czech Republic over the weekend for the 13th round of the Championship in the idyllic circuit of Loket, with big crowds cheering riders on in perfect conditions.

For the full report see:
Romain Febvre claims Czech MXGP win | Prado tops MX2 (link)

MXGP

In MXGP Romain Febvre managed to break Tim Gajser’s winning streak. The Frenchman won the Qualification Heat and both races, taking his victory in the top class since 2016. After seven consecutive victories Gajser finished in second place but he remains firmly in the lead of the standings. There was an excellent performance by Jeremy Seewer who, thanks to the third place, continues to occupy second position in the championship.

Roman Febvre

“I’m really happy about it. The road was long but I really had a perfect weekend. This means everything. A victory you can’t describe, I stalled the bike in the second race and Tim closed the gap and I opened the gap. We had a good start in the first race, was second behind my team-mate and I passed him quickly, he was following me, but I was comfortable, and I didn’t take pressure from them. I am happy to win for my team.”

Tim Gajser

“I am happy overall. Yesterday I struggled because the bumps were hard. I finished second both times and Romain was quick on this track, so I am happy for him. Also, thanks to the fans and my team, I’m looking forward to Lommel now.”

Jeremy Seewer

“Romain was on another level all weekend and how relaxed he was. From my side I struggled in free practice and timed practice and we made some changes. Three in a row and I try and be better and better. It is a tough competition with Romain and Tim. Now I look forward to Lommel and some sand.”

MX2

First place belonged again to Jorge Prado who has claimed each Grand Prix (12) he has contested in 2019. There was two good outings for Henry Jacobi who was second overall just ahead of Thomas Kjer Olsen. Adam Sterry missed out on his first podium by just one point and had to settle for fourth position.

Jorge Prado

“It was unbelievable. Another two solid races and I enjoyed getting back to Europe and winning after the Asian rounds. I felt way better in the second race, got a good gap and pushed to get it home. Last year I got the red plate here, so it was nice to come back. Now I am looking forward to the Grand Prix in Lommel.

Henry Jacobi

“I got a third in the qualification race on Saturday, and I was lucky with the second in the first race and then third in the second race was enough for a podium finish. Adam (Sterry) was too quick in the second one, and the team did a great job today.”

Thomas Kjer Olsen

“Last weekend was tough after the crash in the second race and I am happy to be on the podium. I started the weekend slow but made some changes with the bike. I struggled with the start but made the most of it. I want to thank the team and my family and everyone who supports me.”

Bidzans & Marek crowned EMX champions at Loket

The hillside circuit of Loket witnessed the future of motocross in action as the Finals of the European Championships EMX65 and EMX85 were held together with the premiere classes. Racing was nothing less than impressive with Latvian Edvards Bidzans and Vitezslav Marek winning the EMX85 and EMX65 titles respectively.

EMX 85

The opening EMX85 race saw a great performance from Edvards Bidzans despite a poor start, working his way through the field to move into first place on lap three and controlling the race from there, winning ahead of Quentin Marc Prugnieres and Valerio Lata.

Prugnieres, who led the race on the first lap, had to settle for second after being passed by Bidzans early and rode a steady race for second. The 2019 85cc Junior World Champion Valerio Lata also rode an incredible race from his third position. After starting in around 15th position moved into 12th on lap one, then slowly passed a bunch of riders to move into third place on the final lap of the race.

When the gate dropped for race 2 it was the French Maxime Grau who took the early lead in the second EMX85 race from Prugnieres, and Alberts Karlis Reisulis. After a lap the lead by Grau was nearly three seconds, while Valerio Lata moved into third place when he passed Reisulis. Lata was then in second place as he also moved past Prugnieres.

Race 1 winner Bidzans moved into third place on lap five while Prugnieres dropped another place as he went back to fourth place. 85cc Junior World Champion Valerio Lata was on fire as he moved right up on Grau for the lead.

Lata moved into the lead and Bidzans also moved past early leader Prugnieres to relegate the French youngster to third place. Lata won the race by three seconds to Bidzans, but it was second overall Bidzans who was crowned champion. Third was Prugnieres, Reisulis fourth and Grau fifth.

Young Latvian rider Edvards Bidzans won the 2019 EMX85 championship in Loket after going 1-2 and scoring 47 points. Bidzans was crowned 2016 EMX65 champion and is now a two-time European champion at the age of 14.

Second overall was the 2019 World Junior 85cc champion Valerio Lata with 3-1 scores and 45 points, while third placed was Quentin Marc Prugnieres 2-3 and 42 points

Edvards Bidzans

“I am really happy about the weekend. I can’t express what I am feeling. I won the first race and I didn’t have a good start in the second one, but I passed nearly everyone in the first corner, and then I passed for second and I knew that was enough to win it, because Lata was third in the first race. The weekend has been perfect. The starts were not great, but I was able to win it.”

EMX65

In the opening EMX65 race it was local hero Vitezslav Marek who held the early lead ahead of Marius Adomaitis, Anton Isaksson, and Joel Canadas. Nobody was going to stop Marek as he never gave up his lead, topping every single lap of the race. In second Adomaitis did pretty much the same thing, holding second all race long, but in third Semen Rybakov just had to pass Isaksson to get his third-place finish.

Marek led in the second EMX65 race, followed by Edoardo Martinelli, Felix Cardineau, Filippo Mantovani and the Dutch sensation Lotte Van Drunen in fifth. Van Drunen moved into fourth place after passing Mantovani, and after a lap the lead by Marek was already six seconds.

Marek was in a class of his own as he extended the lead to ten-seconds on lap two, while Van Drunen showed amazing speed in fourth place, and Adomaitis dropped into sixth place on lap two, then into fifth when he passed Gregor Kuusk.

Rybakov was also pushing through the field after an early crash, as he came from well back in the pack to move into seventh place on lap four. Van Drunen moved into third place as the Dutch girl proved more than a match for the boys.

Marek was cruising up front with a 16-second lead as the race got close to its completion. Adomaitis was all over Van Drunen for third place, he moved into third place and soon after Van Drunen was relegated to fifth as Rybakov also moved past the Netherlander. Marek went on to win from Martinelli and Adomaitis.

Vitezslav Marek put the Loket crowd into a frenzy as he added the EMX65 championship to his trophy cabinet with a very dominant 1-1 performance. Second overall was Marius Adomaitis with 2-3 scores and third place Semen Rybakov with 3-4 scores.

Vitezslav Marek

“I am very happy about my racing, it was a very good weekend, thanks to my sponsors, my family and my fans.”

Courtney Duncan tops WMX in Loket

Around the old school circuit of Loket, the third round of FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship took place where Bike It DRT Kawasaki’s Courtney Duncan has won the round, putting in a perfect 1-1 scorecard and claiming 50-points. The New Zealander also extended her lead in the championship to 14 points over Nancy Van de Ven, 139-points to 125.

Second overall at Loket was Larissa Papenmeier with a 4-2 results and 40 points, and third Van De Ven, who went 2-4, also for 40 points.

In the opening women’s race on Saturday, Duncan gave it all as she held the lead on lap one and remained there for the complete race. Behind her Van De Ven did the same job, second all race long, while third placed girl, Papenmeier made an impressive race after starting in around 10th and coming through the pack to finish in third position.

Under overcasts skies Papenmeier led the second Women’s race on Sunday morning from Van De Ven, Duncan, Line Dam and Francesca Nocera. Duncan though showed her class by taking the lead half-way through the first lap.

After two laps the lead by Duncan was more than five-seconds, with Papenmeier second and Van De Ven third. Four laps into the race and it was a 12-second lead between Duncan and Papenmeier. Verstappen had moved up to fourth place, and Shana Van der Vlist into fifth.

Duncan continued to control the race with nearly 20-seconds between herself and second placed Papenmeier, with Van De Ven a massive 40-seconds behind Duncan. Verstappen moved into third place to relegate Van De Ven to fourth position.

Duncan won from Papenmeier and Amandine Verstappen getting her second round win of the 2019 season.

Courtney Duncan

“I’m very happy for myself and the whole team. Dixon Racing and I have put a lot of work. We also have a small team back home, but it’s crucial. I just rode smooth and contained my lead and I am really happy. It was a good weekend, pretty close to perfect. I had two good starts in this technical track and it helped a lot.”

Tomac & Cianciarulo dominate Washougal National

Great weather and a huge crowd of die-hard Pacific Northwest MX fans provided the setting for an incredible day of action at the Washougal National, with the ninth round of the 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship proving a stomper.

With its unique setting and racing surface, the Washougal MX Park provides some of the best competition of the season and the 39th running of this legendary event was no different.

For the full report see:
Eli Tomac sweeps 2019 Washougal MX National (link)

In the 450 Class Eli Tomac was a man on a mission all afternoon. The reigning series champion and current point leader overcame less-than-stellar starts in both motos to charge to the front of the field in emphatic fashion and earn a 1-1 sweep for his fourth win of the season. He also added to his already comfortable point lead.

Ken Roczen meanwhile had to settle for runner up, with his 2-3 results across the motos, while Marvin Musquin completed the overall podium, with a 5-2 result.

Tomac (392) now holds a 50-point lead over Musquin (342), while Roczen sits in third on 335-points. Cooper Webb (324) and Jason Anderson (304) complete the top five in the 450 standings.

In the 250 Class, it came down to a showdown between the championship’s top two riders. Adam Cianciarulo, the point leader, and Dylan Ferrandis enjoyed an epic battle that showed they’re the front-runners in this title fight, but it was the Frenchman who prevailed on this day with his second 1-1 sweep of the season.

Adam Cianciarulo took the overall runner-up position with his 3-2 result, while Justin Cooper was third going 2-4.

The round saw Ferrandis (366) close down eight-points on championship leader Cianciarulo (394), while Justin Cooper now sits on 346-points. A distant fourth is Colt Nichols on 261-points, with RJ Hampshire (254) completing the top five in the standings.

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Riders talk Moree Round 8 – Pirelli MX Nationals

Round 8 of the Pirelli MX Nationals was cut short in Moree, after the local hospital informed organisers they were at capacity, putting an end to the weekend’s racing, with half the races complete.

See the full race reports here:
Moree MX Nationals curtailed early but some races run (link)

Thor MX1

In the Thor MX1 class it was Todd Waters who took the win from Kirk Gibbs and Brett Metcalfe, with Dylan Long and Richie Evans completing the top five. Luke Clout had to settle for ninth.

This result saw Todd Waters claim the MX1 standings lead, now two-points up on Luke Clout (420-points), with Hayden Mellross in third on 408. Kirk Gibbs is a more distant fourth, with 347 championship points, with Brett Metcalfe completing the top five in the standings on 323.

Todd Waters – P1

“I’ve got a two-point lead in the MX1 championship, with two rounds to go. It’s great to have it, but two points isn’t enough to start celebrating. I was really comfortable today with good speed in qualifying and in the race, I was able to ride the FC450 into the lead with three laps to go and crossed the line with a small lead. I wish we could’ve raced the second moto, as I know I would’ve only gotten stronger, but sometimes these things happen when you race.”

Kirk Gibbs, who finished second on the day in another strong performance. Gibbs lead the majority of the 15 lap race only to battle arm pump later in the race and fall into the clutches of Todd Waters, by made his move with just a few laps to go.

Kirk Gibbs – P2

“I’m a little disappointed not to get the race win as you never want to lead for that long and not actually get the W,” Gibbs begins. “By the mid-way point I could feel my arms getting tight and I tried to stay as loose and relaxed as possible but when the final last few laps came up and the sprint speed was back on, I just couldn’t be at my best. But on the podium is good and I feel like I’m riding well, so there are a lot of positives to take from the weekend. The bike and team did a great job and we are now focused on a huge weekend at Coolum this weekend where we have the double header final round that will be tough on everyone.”

Penrite Honda’s Brett Metcalfe rode well in the one and only race for the day to finish third following another fantastic start.

Brett Metcalfe – P3

“The track was extremely challenging, it was shinny and dry in some sections and wet and tacky in others. I got a great jump of the line and was in fourth for the early part of the race. I took too long to find a rhythm. In the middle of the moto I started matching the leaders pace but it was a case of too little too late for me and I had to settle for third.”

Long was in third-place at the end of timed qualifying and then posted the fourth-fastest lap in the single-lap Super Pole session, setting him up for a strong day of competition in rutty, technical track conditions.

The sole 30-minute MX1 moto of the round was an inspiring one for Long, moving forward from eighth position on the opening lap all the way through to fourth by race’s end – only two seconds from the podium.

Dylan Long – P4

“I definitely started to feel better today and it was disappointing that we didn’t get to do that second moto because I felt like I had a podium in me. I’ve been coming on strong later in the season, but it is what it is. The KX450 was awesome and Empire Kawasaki has been so good – I’m just stoked to be getting better at every round.”

The Moree round proved to be the best of the season so far for Richie Evans in the MX1 class. Evans gelled with the track early in the day and then after a good start in the opening race, he was able to move from seventh, up to fourth, before losing one spot later in the race.

Richie Evans – P5

“Fifth is a good result and one that I am happy with. I was able to get a good start and run with the lead group and found that they weren’t really getting away. I tried to stay calm and keep pace with Brett Metcalfe who was a couple of seconds ahead of me. Dylan Long closed in and past me just past half way and a made a mistake which cost me a few seconds, but I was able to keep my composure and finish fifth.”

Clout left Moree frustrated as he fell in the opening moto as the field left the first turn and by the time he regathered himself and his bike, he was a distant last and desperate for points. He toiled away during the 15 lap event and managed to climb his way back to ninth place but surrendered valuable to his championship rivals.

Luke Clout – P9

“The weekend didn’t go the way I wanted it to, and I was just too impatient on the opening lap. I had a reasonable start and tried to get to the front in the first couple of turns but I ended up locking bars with other riders and going down. I was a silly thing to do and the team had spoken to me over the last few rounds about minimising the mistakes and keeping myself in contention in every race. I felt I let them down a little on the weekend. My motivation is high, and I am determined to make up for it at Coolum. I have won championships there in the past, the bike and team are awesome, and I am fitter than I have ever been. Its not over and I plan on coming out swinging from lap one and won’t stop until it’s over.”

Lawson Bopping rode well, qualifying in eighth and then riding consistently on his way to P10 at the conclusion of moto one, while overcoming lingering fatigue issues.

Lawson Bopping – P10

“I was happy to get through the moto today and 10th-place is alright. It was sort of the same as Maitland where I struggled with my health and faded for sure, but I kept it on two wheels and got a reasonable result – it was a pretty uneventful race for me.”

Pirelli MX2

MX2 saw Nathan Crawford top the shortened round, taking the win ahead of Dylan Wills and Wilson Todd, while Aaron Tanti and Jay Wilson completed the top five, with the MX2 class running dual motos for a combined result.

The result sees Wilson Todd holding the championship lead on 427-points, with Kyle Webster (409) second, and Jay Wilson completing the top three on 403-points. Nathan Crawford and Aaron Tanti conclude the top five, heading into the season final.

Crawford finished the shortened race day with 2-1 results in the back to back sprint moto and there was no denying him. He was elated to break his winning drought and take a round victory for the first time since April 2018.

Nathan Crawford – P1

“Since the half way break, things have been going really well and my riding has progressed back to where I believe it should be. I have been on or around the podium since then and been in contention for every moto and that’s what it takes to race for championships at a professional level. Today I had to work for it as there were bikes going everywhere at the start of moto one, then in moto two, all the top riders were inside the top five and I was able to get through for the win. The championship is still a long shot with two rounds to go but I will keep charging to the very end and try and win every race I go in and see where it puts me.”

Wilson Todd – P3

“I think I was lucky today. I’ve extended my lead in the championship after coming down in the first of the back-to-back moto’s! I set the fastest lap in race two (2:01.864) on my way to finishing second, and I made a lot of passes in the first race to finish seventh. There’s positives to come out of the day, but now I’m focused on the back-to-back rounds in Coolum next week to finish the season.”

Aaron Tanti has had a frustrating run of fourth place round finishes, which continued at Moree. Tanti has a streak of fourth places finishes which for many riders would be a great result, but Tanti has had enough and wants to be on the podium.  He finished in fourth place in both motos and was tied for third for the day with Wilson Todd, but Todd had the stronger finish in the second moto and therefore was awarded third.

Aaron Tanti – P4

“I am sick of fourth place and not getting on the podium. The last three rounds I have been in fourth and missed out on the podium which also means I’m missing out on money. I feel like I have been riding well and been really consistent the while championship, but I just haven’t been able to break through and get a race win which really kicks in the big points. We have two rounds remaining and that’s two opportunities to get on the podium. The championship is out of reach for me so there’s nothing to lose and I’m all in for Coolum,”

Jay Wilson made a bold attempt at the race lead but as he surged to the front, he front wheel knifed in a soft section of the track and was spectacularly ejected from his bike. Then as he scrambled to his feet, he was then hit again and put on his back-side for the second time. He continued to fight and clawed his way back to 12th place by moto end and salvaged some valuable points. Then within minutes he was back behind the starting gate and ready for race two of the back to back sprint races. This time with no major incidents, Wilson slotted into third place and despite his best efforts, wasn’t able to pass the riders ahead of him.

Jay Wilson – P5

“The day didn’t go as I would have liked and that crash in the opening race was a result of me just wanting to get to the front as fast as I could. Looking back, I probably could have been a little more patient but I felt I had opportunity to make it happen, I just didn’t execute it as well as I should have. Race two was better and I was applying plenty of pressure to Wilson Todd but couldn’t find a way past. The championship is still tight and with five riders still a mathematical change of winning it, no one can take it easy. It’s an exciting end to the championship and I can’t wait to hook in at Coolum and give it my best.”

Motul MXD

The Motul MXD saw Regan Duffy claim victory from Brodie Ellis and Maximus Purvis, with Tye Jones and Jai Walker completing the top five for the round. This sees Duffy lead into the season final on 461-points to second in the standing’s Purvis’s 427-points. A distant third is Rhys Budd on 370-points, while Brodie Ellis (331) and Noah Ferguson (330) complete the top five.

Maximus Purvis has been a like furniture on the MXD podium this year and Moree marks the fifth consecutive occasion the talented Kiwi has landed on the podium and a total of six times in the eight rounds contested so far. Purvis claimed third on the weekend and was again extremely fast on track but the chink in his armour was starts and his opening lap position. He crossed the finish line in 10th place on the opening lap and had his work cut out to charge forward in the nine lap event.

Maximus Purvis – P3

“The first lap was chaotic as there were a lot of crashes and riders going down. I had to dodge plenty of downed bikes and as a result lost a lot of time and positions. The track was tough to pass on, but I managed to get through and when I got to third I had a few laps of clear track, so I was able to get close to the guys in the lead. I tried to make a few moves to go into second, but I made a mistake in the final few turns and couldn’t get by. Third is ok and it’s another podium but I need race wins to chase down Regan. He is 34 points ahead with two rounds to go so my plan is to try and win the last four motos and not worry about whatever happens behind me.”

Jack Kukas was part of a huge pile up on the opening lap. Jack and another rider came together on a fast section of the track, with bikes and bodies going in all directions. Kukas was left dazed and sore and as a result was unable to finish the race.

Jack Kukas – DNF

“I was in third on the first lap and made a little mistake in the rolling whoops down the back. As I corrected it and moved to the centre of the track, I collided with another rider and we both went down, then our bikes took down another rider as well, so it was pretty crazy out there. I was in no state to finish the race and was taken to Hospital to get checked out. Thankfully, other than being banged up and bruised, there is nothing broken and I will just rest up over the next few days and prepare for Coolum.”

Kyle Middleton takes fourth Australian X-Trial title

The final round of the 2019 Australian X-Trial Championship headed to Wollongong, New South Wales on July 27, marking the first time that the series has ventured across to the East side of the country.

Tasmanian’s Chris Bayles took the win in a stunning victory with Reigning Champion Kyle Middleton, narrowly tying up the Australian Championship in a night of twists and turns that could not have been scripted.

In the Qualifying Round, Middleton was in fine form dropping only five-points. Meanwhile Bayles was tied on 12 with Western Australia’s Neil Price for third and NSW’s Kevin Zarczynski was only three-points behind on nine. Zarczynski’s younger brother, Colin, had a few unlucky mistakes that cost him a place in the final along with Craig Austin who had a number of great rides but unfortunately could not finish them off.

The Wollongong audience was roaring when the riders returned to the arena for the Final and they certainly got a show. The first section saw Zarczynski, Price and Bayles all fail to complete the tallest Waco Kwikform Scaffold Step, before state hero, Middleton made it up in a stunning ride. With a five-point lead Middleton had some room to relax into Section 2. Zarczynski and Bayles both had a couple of safe rides on the very slippery concrete, before Price failed to complete the section, and Kyle made an uncharacteristic mistake and slipped off one of the lower pipes and touched the ground.

This reduced Middleton’s lead to only one point going into the notorious Barrier section. Zarczynski, slipped off for five points, failing to complete and then both Price and Bayles rode beautifully to clean the Barriers consecutively. Middleton then failed to complete the first major turn dropping to 12 points and back to fourth place. This moved Bayles into the lead on only seven-points. Section four all riders failed to complete and with Middleton and Zarczynski both having big crashes, in the Pipes.

After the tyres and races, the final results were Bayles first on 14-points, Price second (16), Middleton third on count back (17) and Kevin Zarczynski (17) fourth.

Chris Bayles

“I was super stoked with the result and my riding. The sections were all or nothing. The crowd’s vibe was unreal, really got the riders motivated.”

The third place for Middleton meant the Championship standings literally had Bayles and Middleton tied on 45 points apiece, and meant they had to be separated by the combined observed scores over the two events, giving Middleton his fourth Australian X-Trial Championship with Bayles in second and Price rounding out the podium in third.

Kyle Middleton

“Round two was a tough one! I am sore, I was challenged but the crowd really helps me get to the end. Not everything went to plan for me but I am absolutely stoked with my fight and managed to just sneak in the championship result.”

Jacob Thorssell claims Scandinavian FIM SGP wild card

Swedish star Jacob Thorssell raced to his first Swedish Championship in Hallstavik to clinch the Scandinavian FIM Speedway Grand Prix wild card for Malilla on August 17. Thorssell did it the hard way after reaching the semi-final with 10 points, while Andreas Jonsson, Linus Sundstrom (both 13) and Kim Nilsson (12) all progressed automatically through to the final as top scorers in the heats.

The semi shoot-out for the last final spot saw Thorssell beat Ludvig Lindgren – younger brother of SGP star Freddie – Victor Palovaara and Pontus Aspgren. Thorssell then carried his momentum into the medal race, beating Rospiggarna legend Andreas Jonsson on his home track, denying him a record-equalling eighth Swedish title in the process. Nilsson was third with Sundstrom fourth.

The Scandinavian SGP will be Thorssell’s third World Championship appearance after he made his debut as a wild card at the 2016 Stockholm SGP, scoring one point. He then scored four points as a track reserve in the Swedish capital a year later, winning heat 12 ahead of SGP icon Tai Woffinden, Freddie Lindgren and Martin Smolinski.

Charles Wright to wildcard British FIM Speedway GP

New British champion Charles Wright hailed his first national title “an unbelievable achievement” as he booked his place at the British FIM Speedway Grand Prix in Cardiff on September 21.

Wright started the British Championship Final in Manchester as one of the meeting’s dark horses to triumph. He ended it wearing the famous No.16 SGP wild-card race jacket he’ll don when he takes on the world’s top riders at the Principality Stadium.

The Stockport-based racer produced a lightening start to see off Danny King, Craig Cook and Chris Harris and win the Grand Final at the National Speedway Stadium – just 10 minutes from his home. The rider admits joining the British Championship roll of honour and earning his ticket to Cardiff will take some time to get his head around.

Charles Wright

“I have come on in leaps and bounds in the last couple of years and every year I seem to be going better and better. But I just can’t believe what I have done today. I beat some fantastic riders that I looked up to, and I have done it. I was just gating. I felt fast on the track and I knew if I got to that turn first in the last one, I was away. It’s an unbelievable achievement and I am so proud of myself. There’s nothing on it for me – I can just go out and enjoy it and see what I can do. I’ll see if I can beat a few GP boys and get the crowd going. There’s no pressure on me. I am there and that’s the main thing.”

Wright did it the hard way after reaching the semi-final on 11 points, while King and Cook qualified for the Grand Final automatically on 14 and 12 respectively. He won the semi ahead of Harris, Steve Worrall and Lewis Kerr, before pulling off the start and race win of his career in the decider to earn his SGP debut.

Sherco’s Michael Metge wins 2019 Baja Spain Aragón

The 36th edition of Baja Spain Aragón was fiercely contested again and the outcome was never certain until the finish of the fourth stage. Ultimately, Michael Metge managed to impose his pace and confirm victory for the second successive year, the Frenchman finishing ahead of Junior rider Tosha Schareina and Joan Pedrero.

Cautious at the start, because he was taking part in Baja Spain Aragón with his rally motorcycle that was much heavier and less manoeuvrable on the winding tracks around Teruel, Metge took the lead in the opening stage and held on, despite the challenge from his rivals. 

Benjamin Melot finished eighth and maintains his lead in the FIM Cross-Country Bajas World Cup standings.

Michael Metge

“I did not think I would make such a good result. But riding with our Sherco Rally allowed us to test new settings. I quickly had a good feeling with the bike and I was able to keep up a good rhythm throughout the race. These settings are very interesting because David Castera, who was present on the second day on the Baja, told us that the first week of Dakar 2020 would be on beautiful tracks. Santolino obviously shared the same settings and we were able to fight on the tracks. I know his track record in Enduro and I was happy to beat him. It gives me confidence. Unfortunately, he took 14 minutes of speeding penalties. On the second day, young Tosha (Schareina) was very determined but, in the first special, I lost three to four minutes to the refueling because I had to repair the Stella bracket. On the first day, I fell and the bracket weakened and I arrived at the refueling with the Stella in hand.”

In the Women’s category, Rosa Romero won Baja Aragón and finished in front of Rita Vieira and Sara García. 
In Juniors, victory fell to Tosha Schareina, ahead of Maciej Giemza and Adam Tomicek.

The final round of the FIM Cross-Country Bajas World Cup is the Hungarian Baja on August 9-11.

Overall Results – Bike

1. Michael Metge (Sherco) 6h30’21
2. Tosha Schareina (Husqvarna) +3’39
3. Joan Pedrero (KTM) +7’18
4. Lorenzo Santolino (Sherco) +14’36
5. Martin Micek (KTM) +21’10

FIM Cross-Country Bajas World Cup standings

1. Benjamin MELOT (FRA) 45
2. Jakub PIĄTEK (POL) 26
3. Aaron MARE (ZAF) 25
4. De Gavardo TOMAS (CHL) 19
5. Sultan AL BALOOSHI (ARE) 18

2019 Red Bull Romaniacs about to kick off

Excitement builds at round five of the World Enduro Super Series as Red Bull Romaniacs approaches race day in Sibiu, Romania. Long regarded as the world’s toughest Hard Enduro Rallye, round five of WESS marks the 16th edition of Red Bull Romaniacs.

On the eve of race day, riders from the 50 competing nations enjoyed a City Ride parade through the narrow, cobbled streets, supported by hordes of spectators who enthusiastically cheered them on.

Featuring five days of racing, with a Prologue on the streets on Sibiu followed by four days in the surrounding mountains the Romaniacs Hard Enduro Rallye looks set to be one of the toughest and most demanding events on the WESS calendar. The race will test the riders’ skill, stamina and mental strength.

Offering a teaser to when the action kicks off, the Gold class riders assembled on the prologue course to sample what’s on offer for 2019. For most it was an opportunity to test both body and machines ahead of the start of the racing, while others used it as a chance to size up their racing lines.

Graham Jarvis

“For me Red Bull Romaniacs is all about the mountains. I enjoy the prologue, but I’m a bit too steady – it must be my age! I’m aiming for a strong Off Road Day 1 and then see where things are at. It’s a long week and the competition is tougher than ever, but I didn’t come here to finish second.”

Josep Garcia

“Last year’s Romaniacs was the hardest race for me, but I got through it and I plan to do the same this year. It looks like the weather might play a part again but I think I am better prepared and have been working a lot on my training. My plan is to get to the finish and earn good WESS points before the next two rounds at Hawkstone and Solsona, where I think I have a good chance of taking the win.”

Jonny Walker

“I’m feeling good coming into this year’s Romaniacs, I’m lucky in that so far this year I haven’t had any major problems with my fitness, it’s just the strength in my arm that’s lacking a little. I have been spending a lot of hours on the bike on the run up to the event and I’m confident that my pace and skill is definitely good enough for the podium. I’ve won before and finished second last year so I know what to expect and what to do to succeed. It’s definitely going to be a challenge as always but I’m hoping the extreme sections this year will fit in nicely with the faster flowing tracks and we can get a really good race out of it. Obviously, nobody can control the weather and if conditions are bad it could make for a very tough race.”

Taddy Blazusiak

“I’ve been looking forward to Romaniacs, partly due to what happened last year. I’m feeling good and more comfortable on the bike now and I think I have a really good package for the race. Everyone knows the event will be tough and the organisers always try to throw in a few surprises along the way. I know my pace is good, so if everything goes well, I’ll definitely be aiming for a position on the podium.”

Wade Young

“It’s nice to be back here in Romania and carry the #1 plate into this race. I’m excited to get going. We’ve worked a lot behind the scenes to be ready. I’ve got a new frame and switched to KYB suspension. Overall, I feel good and I’m happy on the new setup. I feel well prepared despite a slight shoulder injury. The goal is just to stay humble and level headed this week – take each day as it comes and be strong when it counts.”

2019 WESS Championship Standings after Round 4

1. Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna – GB) 2690 points
2. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) 2570
3. Mario Roman (Sherco – ESP) 2540
4. Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna – ESP) 2314
5. Billy Bolt (Husqvarna – GB) 2155
6. Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 2125
7. Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) 2090
8. Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 1900
9. Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 1631
10. Travis Teasdale (KTM – RSA) 1610

2019 World Enduro Super Series Calendar

• Round 5: Red Bull Romaniacs (Romania) July 30-August 3
• Round 6: Hawkstone Park Cross Country (United Kingdom) September 21-22
• Round 7: BR2 Enduro Solsona (Spain) October 5-6
• Round 8: GetzenRodeo (Germany) November 2

AORC heads to Broken Hill for Round 7 – Aug 10-11

The 2019 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) returns in two weeks to Broken Hill for Round 7, following a successful round at Kyogle in NSW. Now the championship heads to the Outback desert stage, with Dirt2Ride Events’ Lyndon Heffernan giving some insight into what’s to come. Entries can be done here (link) with a full race schedule to be found here (link).

Lyndon Heffernan – Dirt2Ride Events

“It has long been a dream of mine to create my own ‘bucket list’ event. And after riding the iconic Finke and Hattah Desert Races, I knew it had to be a desert race. After meeting the awesome crew from Silver City MCC, who had similar aspirations, the hunt for a great location was on. The Langwell Station become an option – a 110,00-acre sheep station situated 60km south of the iconic NSW Outback township of Broken Hill. After a quick trip and a day of riding around the place, I knew it offered the access, variety of conditions and the perfect venue to create a two-day event in picturesque, rugged terrain that every dirt bike rider will want to have a crack at. The crew from the AORC’s organising committee then approached me about incorporating the event into the prestigious national series last season, which is what we did.

“Logistically, it is way closer than Finke and/or Hattah for most NSW and Queensland riders. It is actually pretty central for those who live in a lot of east coast riding regions. We are trying to keep it affordable by camping at the track, and good value by offering up a good, long, hard ride. As it is a loop-style track like Hattah with varied distances for each class (see supp regs for full details), and not a point-to-point like Finke, the logistics are easy. Crews stay in one spot all weekend and no special equipment is needed. We want it to be a fun and easy-to-be-at, and still dish up an awesome desert riding experience – without the cost and logistical challenges usually associated with desert races.

“The event caters to a range of Junior classes, to a Pony Express teams race on Sunday Morning, and Senior capacity and veteran classes, so we’ve made sure there’s something for everyone. This will include a 4 Hour Cross Country for E1, E2, E3, EJ, Pony Express and Veterans Class. The Womens and Masters will feature a 3 Hour Cross Country and also the Juniors will have a 3 Hour Cross Country, its plenty of action for all.”

Entry for adults to watch all the action are $5, with kids under 16 free, while there’s a gold coin donation for parking, going to a local charity.

Husqvarna sign 125cc Junior Champ Mattia Guadagnini

Husqvarna have announced that they have signed 125cc Junior Motocross World Champion Mattia Guadagnini for the 2020 EMX250 Championship with team Husqvarna Junior Racing Maddii.

The 17-year-old Italian, who leads the FIM European Motocross Championship EMX125 class with two rounds remaining, will step into the EMX250 class having enjoyed a highly impressive 2019 season to date. Holding a 13-point lead in the EMX125 series with only events in Belgium and Sweden remaining, Mattia has so far enjoyed six race wins including two double victories in Italy and moto wins in The Netherlands and Germany.

Winning both motos at the recent FIM 125cc Junior Motocross World Championship held at Arco di Trento, Italy, Mattia secured the coveted title in front of his home fans and joins the likes of Pauls Jonass, Tim Gajser and Jago Geerts in becoming a 125cc Junior World Champion.

Mattia Guadagnini

“I’m really happy to continue with Husqvarna Junior Racing Maddii for 2020. We are working really well together, and I think I can keep growing as a racer with them. I will race in EMX250 next year, which is another step for my career – a step that I am looking forward to and I’m confident about.”

Marco Maddii – Husqvarna Junior Racing Maddii

“This is our third year together with Mattia and I’m very happy to continue our work in the next level of the EMX250 championship. Mattia has grown a lot this year and I’m proud of him as rider and person. Now he has finished his study and he will be totally focused on motocross. I believe he still has a lot to show with more training, testing and racing.”

2019 Australian Junior Dirt entries open

Motorcycling Australia have announced that entries are now open and Supplementary Regulations (link) are available for the 2019 Honda Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships.

Hosted by the Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club on the 28th and 29th September, this event will highlight the talent that continues to emerge from Australian riders all across the nation. The 2019 Honda Australian Dirt Track Championships will be held at Allen Park MVRG on Debenham Road North, Somersby in New South Wales.

2019 Honda Australian Dirt Track Championships schedule

Racing Classes

• 50cc Division 2 7 – 9yrs
• 65cc – 7 – U9
• 65cc – 9 – U13
• 85cc 2 stk & 150cc 4 stk – 9 – u11yrs STD WHEEL
• 85cc 2 stk & 150cc 4 stk – 11 – u13 yrs STD WHEEL
• 85cc 2 stk & 150cc 4 stk – 13 – u16 yrs STD WHEEL
• 85cc 2 stk & 150cc 4 stk – 11 – u13 yrs BIG WHEEL **
• 85cc 2 stk & 150cc 4 stk – 13 – u16 yrs BIG WHEEL **
• 85cc 2-STK & 150cc 4-STK, STD & Big Wheel, Junior Girls – 11 to u16 yrs
• 85cc 2-STK & 150cc 4-STK, Slider only – 13 to u16 yrs **
• 85cc 4 stroke modified 7 – U10 yrs
• 85cc 4 stroke modified 10 – U14 yrs
• 100cc 2 -stroke to 150cc 2-stroke – 13 to under 16 yrs **
• 100cc to 150cc 2-Stk & 200cc to 250cc 4-stk- Girls -13 to u16 Yrs
• 100cc to 150cc 2-stroke & 200cc to 250cc 4-stroke -13 to u16 Yrs **
• 100ccto150cc 2-stk & 200ccto250cc 4-stk, Slider only13 to u16 yrs **
• 200cc to 250cc 4-stk – 13 to u16 yrs
• Support Class
• Div 1 4 to u9yrs DEMO
• 80cc 4 Stroke Standard 7 to U11yrs – NO MODIFICATIONS

Kristie Mckinnon joins Australian 2019 Trial des Nations team

Due to prior commitments Kristie Mckinnon originally had to dismiss her duties from the 2019 Trial des Nations (TdN), which this year takes place in Ibiza, Spain, however with those commitments now pushed aside, the nine-times Australian Trials Champion is back on deck and ready to help her teammates, Jenna Lupo and Lillie Yiatrou at the twentieth running of the Women’s Trial des Nations event.

Mckinnon brings a lot of experience and a lot of stability to the Australian team. The 34-year-old, who hails from Penrith, New South Wales, has been the Australian Trial Champion for the past nine years and represented Australia on at least ten occasions in the TdN. The 2019 Trials des Nations runs from the 28-29 September.