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Moto News Weekly | Freeman claims EnduroGP title | TdN | GNCC

Moto News Weekly for October 1, 2019

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What happened this week

  • Brad Freeman ties up EnduroGP title in France
  • Hamish MacDonald claims first Kiwi Endurance World Title
  • Australia goes one better at 2019 TdN in Ibiza
  • 2019 Australian Junior Dirt Track run at Somersby over weekend
  • Thad Duvall claims 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC Overall Win
  • Jared Mees tops AFT season finale
  • Netherlands claims MXoN win from Belgium and Great Britain
  • 2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale wraps up
  • Cross-Countries Rally head to Rallye du Maroc
  • Road Racer Jessopp tries WESS at Hawkstone Park XC
  • 2019 KTM AJMX Interstate Challenge Teams Announced
  • 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule
  • Rene Hofer join Red Bull KTM MX2 effort full-time in 2020
  • Mathys Boisrame joins F&H Kawasaki
  • KTM takes over Gas Gas

Brad Freeman ties up EnduroGP title in France
Saturday Report

Saturday of the last weekend of EnduroGP competition in 2019 saw the tests of the GP of France challenge many of the riders, however quadruple World Champion Steve Holcombe got the job done and won the E3 category and with this new success, now boasts an impressive five titles in his young career.

EnduroGP France Brad FreemanimgEGP
Brad Freeman – Image by EnduroGP

Brad Freeman continued his momentum, the 2019 E1 World Champion offered up a repeat performance of the incredible pace he had in the Czech Republic. Highly focused and dominating the day, the Beta Boano rider finished as the best performer of the day by winning five tests.

Danny McCanney once again makes it an all British podium by accompanying the Beta pair on the podium. The TM rider won four tests today, a impressive feat against the likes of Freeman and Holcombe, as well as a charged up French contingent.

The first non-Brit is France’s Loïc Larrieu who, in front of his supporters, had a great day during which he won two tests. Alex Salvini put in a lot of effort and finished in the Top 5. The Italian suffered in the extremely demanding transfers of the Livradois lap.

EnduroGP France Loic Larrieu
Loïc Larrieu

In E1, there was no change as McCanney signed off on a new success in the class. He was ahead of a surprising Andrea Verona and another Italian joins them on the podium, Thomas Oldrati.

The fight in the E2 category was superb all day. It was Loïc Larrieu who snatched the victory at the expense of Alex Salvini. The two men fought blow for blow. But Larrieu, probably boosted by the many French fans, found the strength to win and separate himself and Salvini by just one point.

EnduroGP France Alex Salvini
Alex Salvini

Steve Holcombe did it, taking a new world title in the E3 category! His fifth in four years of Senior competitions. The Brit knew he could ‘save’ his very tough season with this success and have a reason to smile. Very emotional when he arrived back into the paddock, Holcombe dedicated his latest title to his team and all his relatives. Joining Holcombe on the podium were his season long rival, Danny McCanney and France’s ever-improving David Abgrall.

Steve Holcombe

“It’s amazing to win another world title. This is certainly a memorable one. It’s been a challenging season for me, so to finally collect the Enduro 3 World Championship is a huge relief. From dominating the opening round to coming extremely close to having the Epstein Bar Virus put an end to my season mid-way through the series, honestly, it’s been such a strange year. My goal was to defend my EnduroGP title, which I still have a mathematical chance of doing, but winning another Enduro 3 title after everything that’s happened is something I’m incredibly proud of. I have to say a huge thanks to my team, all my sponsors, my family and everyone who’s worked with me this season, helping me battle through some difficult moments. World title number five certainly wasn’t an easy one to win but it’s a special one.”

Steve Holcombe FM France EnduroGP Rnd
Steve Holcombe – Image by Future7Media

In the Junior category, Wil Ruprecht won despite the Epstein Barr virus that continues to wreak havoc with his health. The Australian has drawn on all his resources to get this second win in 2019.

It’s a great reward for him and Joakim Johansson’s team. Theo Espinasse was just over a second and a half behind the Australian, having provided a spectacular race as usual. The young Brit Dan Mundell accompanied these two on the podium, bringing more silverware to Sherco Factory.

The Junior 1 podium was identical to that of Junior Overall, with Ruprecht leading Espinasse and Mundell. In J2, Ruy Barbosa won ahead of Till De Clerco and Emanuele Facchetti. But a nod goes to Enric Francisco who, despite a big crash which left him battered and bruised, won the World J2 title, triggering euphoric celebrations for his team and manager, Ivan Cervantes.

Hamish Macdonald made a whole nation proud by becoming the first World Enduro Champion from New Zealand. The Sherco rider won the title after a very complicated season after Macdonald broke his collarbone in Spain. He pushed hard to recover and return to the top of the category. This title augurs really well for the Kiwi, who hasn’t yet realised the full extent of his success.

Hamish Macdonald

“I can not find the words, this title is just incredible! The season was very tricky when I broke my collarbone, and my rivals have pushed. All I can say is thank you to my team and my family, but also to the Edmondson family for welcoming me and taking care of me away from home all year. I still haven’t taken in what’s happening, but I can promise you that we’re going to celebrate tonight!”

On the first day of action, home favourite Nathan Bererd won in front of Sergio Navarro by less than a second! Macdonald climbed onto the final step of the podium in the Youth category.

The Enduro Woman Cup is back! For the second consecutive year, the best girls on the planet come to battle to win the Women’s World Cup at the final round of the season. And defending champion Sanna Karkkainen has a lot of work to do if she wants to retain her crown.

Jane Daniels surged to success by winning on Saturday. The Brit is ahead of Karkkainen and the Spanish rider Mireia Badia. Daniels is extremely motivated after the big disappointment she suffered in 2018, when she had to give up her title hopes after breaking her collarbone early in the weekend. Jane left no chances to her rivals, winning five out of the six tests.

The riders in the Champion Lubricants Enduro Open World Cup also fought it out on the tough terrain, chasing the best riders in the world. In Open 2-Stroke, after his absence in the Czech Republic, Gonçalo Reis has come back with a win. He won in front of Benet Gomez and a quick Jack Cadwallader.

In Open 4-Stroke, Belgium’s Mathias Van Hoof had announced he was hoping to take the top step on French soil – and he managed it! He took victory over Robert Riedel and Dylan Levesque. In the absence of the giant from the Isle of Man, David Knight, it was Andrea Belotti turn to win. The Italian had this first win of the year in Open Senior ahead of Enrique Gonzalez Vega and Patrik Andersson.

EnduroGP France Podio E Day
2019 EnduroGP of France – E3 Podium Saturday

2019 EnduroGP of France – Saturday Overall

  1. Brad FREEMAN United Kingdom 1:08:22.13
  2. Steve HOLCOMBE United Kingdom +19.86
  3. Daniel MCCANNEY United Kingdom +23.01
  4. Loïc LARRIEU France +36.69
  5. Alex SALVINI Italy +1:06.89
  6. Thomas OLDRATI Italy +1:18.78
  7. Giacomo REDONDI Italy +1:34.81
  8. Matteo CAVALLO Italy +1:37.44
  9. Joseph WOOTTON United Kingdom +1:39.40
  10. Antoine BASSET France +1:48.12
  11. Benjamin HERRERA Chile +2:05.48
  12. David ABGRALL France +2:11.83
  13. Antoine MEO France +2:17.26
  14. Christophe CHARLIER France +2:24.00
  15. Kirian MIRABET Spain +2:49.10
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Sunday Report

In an incredible end to the 2019 EnduroGP season, Sunday saw the supreme title of EnduroGP – overall Champion – still to be decided, with Brad Freeman giving it his all. And at the tender age of 23 he has taken the first EnduroGP title of his career. This incredible day in the sport also saw the world E2 crown awarded, as well as the Women’s World Cup.

EnduroGP France Thomas Oldrati
Thomas Oldrati

Brad Freeman continued to fly the Union Jack high. He is also the first rider to end Steve Holcombe’s reign. The Beta Boano rider broke his collarbone at the GP of Greece and had to ride in searing in pain to conquer the title. In addition to his E1 crowns in 2018 and 2019, and his Junior crown in 2017, Freeman now adds a fourth star to his list. All this bodes well for the future of the incredibly talented young rider.

Brad Freeman

“That’s it! We did it! I do not have a lot of words to describe what I’m feeling. This season was so complicated and tough, I can tell you that it took a lot of will to fulfil this dream. I am EnduroGP World Champion and it feels great!”

EnduroGP France Brad Freeman imgEGP
Brad Freeman

And what a performance from Loïc Larrieu today! Encouraged and boosted by the French fans, he attacked all day on Sunday, winning no fewer than six tests. The TM rider intelligently built up his lead and kept an eye on his opponent’s pace, upping his pace only when needed. Larrieu took his first world title, in E2, on home soil – what better way to do it?

Larrieu also owes his performance to an exceptional Alex Salvini, who pushed him to his absolute limits. The Italian made very few mistakes, and finished second overall in a Grand Prix that could easily have turned in his favour.

Loic Larrieu

“To win this title in front of the French public is something really special. This title represents a lot for me. I want to thank the entire TM Racing team, my entourage and my partners. It’s a great reward after a year that was difficult with a new constructor and little preparation. It’s just perfect, it’s my year.”

EnduroGP France Loic Larrieu
Loïc Larrieu

Steve Holcombe also fought gallantly all day. Freshly crowned in the E3 class, Steve promised to throw everything into the ring to try and beat Freeman, but this year it simply wasn’t enough. He finished third in this last GP of a difficult season.

Brad Freeman was fourth overall, doing ‘just enough’. Meanwhile, 2018 Junior World Champion Matteo Cavallo impressed everyone in his first Senior season, taking another Top 5 spot overall.

EnduroGP France Loic Larrieu
Loïc Larrieu

The E2 class was extremely exciting on this second day of racing in France. Loïc Larrieu became World Champion for the first time in his career, and in impressive fashion. Mastering the French terrain, he admitted he had to push all day. Alex Salvini was a fantastic rival for Larrieu , he always gives his all and fights with aggression and finesse. But the Italian once again had to swallow the heartbreak of losing out on the last day of the year. Behind this pair on the E2 podium was an ever-improving Joe Wootton.

Alex Salvini

“I got beaten again at the last race of the year, but this time it was nothing like what happened in 2018. This year the fight was really beautiful with Loic, and even though I am very disappointed not to be champion, I realised what I am capable of. This year was tough but I am happy to have managed to run my own team – we will come back even stronger.”

EnduroGP France Alex Salvini
Alex Salvini

In E1, Freeman won at the expense of Cavallo and Davide Guarneri.
Meanwhile, Steve Holcombe won the last E3 race of the year in front of his super-consistent compatriot, Danny McCanney and the legendary champion Christophe Nambotin, who has just taken part in his last GP.

Steve Holcombe FM France EnduroGP RndTheo Espinasse ended his 2019 season like a cannonball. The Sherco rider pocketed another win following his success in Uhlirske Janovice two weeks ago. He took Sunday’s victory ahead of Ruy Barbosa and a quick Dan Mundell. Espinasse also won the J1 class in front of Mundell and Antoine Magain. While J2 went to Barbosa, in front of wildcard Jed Etchells and Léo Le Quere.

In Youth 125, Sergio Navarro won in the last round against Nathan Bererd by a second and a half. 2019 EY Champion Hamish Macdonald closed out the podium positions.

Shy and quiet off the bike, Britain’s Jane Daniels is absolutely ferocious on the tests. After a flawless weekend, she wins the Enduro Women’s World Cup. As modest as talented, Daniels was finally able to claim a title that has eluded her in the past due to misfortune or bad luck. In 2019, she proved she is the fastest woman in the world on an enduro machine. 2018 champion Sanna Karkkainen didn’t have an answer for Daniels this weekend. Third on this world podium was Spain’s Mireia Badia.

Jane Daniels

“At last I have won this title that I have been waiting for so long! I am really happy and I am very proud to bring this trophy home with me!”

In the Champion Lubricants Enduro Open World Cup, the 2019 season has been a great success. The category gave a chance for a large number of riders who dreamed of rubbing shoulders with the best in the world, on the same course! It is mission accomplished for the first year of the Open Cup!

For this last round of the season in Open 4-Stroke we saw the same winner as Saturday – Belgium’s Mathias Van Hoof on his Beta. He took victory ahead of Robert Riedel and Dylan Levesque. In the Open 2-Stroke Gonçalo Reis concluded a brilliant season with another win. He was accompanied on the final podium of the year by Gomez Benet and Jorge Paradelo Rodriguez. In the Senior category, Andrea Belotti doubled up and won for the second time this weekend. The same duo as Saturday; Enrique Gonzalez Vega and Patrik Andersson accompanied him on the podium.

EnduroGP France Podio E Day
2019 EnduroGP of France – E3 Podium Sunday

The Grand Prix of France brilliantly concluded an EnduroGP season that was in every respect remarkable. Given the level of competition, excitement, and unpredictability shown this year, all eyes are already on 2020!

2019 EnduroGP of France – Sunday Overall

  1. Loïc LARRIEU France 1:05:47.21
  2. Alex SALVINI Italy +8.07
  3. Steve HOLCOMBE United Kingdom +22.33
  4. Brad FREEMAN United Kingdom +28.58
  5. Matteo CAVALLO Italy +42.42
  6. Daniel MCCANNEY United Kingdom +49.69
  7. Joseph WOOTTON United Kingdom +57.36
  8. Antoine BASSET France +1:48.98
  9. Davide GUARNERI Italy +1:57.15
  10. Benjamin HERRERA Chile +2:04.72
  11. Christophe NAMBOTIN France +2:13.23
  12. Christophe CHARLIER France +2:21.31
  13. Hugo BLANJOUE France +2:21.43
  14. Thomas OLDRATI Italy +2:23.34
  15. David ABGRALL France +2:30.89
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Hamish Macdonald claims first Kiwi Endurance World Title

Canterbury’s Hamish MacDonald has become the first New Zealand rider to win a World Enduro Championship. Originally from West Melton, MacDonald (20) was crowned the FIM 125cc Youth Enduro World Champion at the final round in Ambert, France over the weekend.

The victory was made even sweeter, after a tough season where the Sherco rider broke both the scapula bone in his shoulder and his clavicle, at May’s third round in Spain. He fought back hard to recover and return to the top of the category.

Hamish Macdonald

“I cannot find the words, this title is just incredible! The season was very tricky when I broke my collarbone, and my rivals have pushed. All I can say is thank you to my team and my family, but also to the Edmondson family for welcoming me and taking care of me away from home all year. I still haven’t taken in what’s happening, but I can promise you that we’re going to celebrate tonight!”

Hamish MacDonald World Enduro Champion
Hamish Macdonald – Image by Mastorgne Photography and Dario Agrati

He joined the Enduro GP last year after what had been a long time since a New Zealander took on the sport’s special tests. The last Kiwi to race in this series was Pahiatua’s Paul Whibley back in 2003. The tough enduro discipline is run on extended cross-country and off-road courses, featuring many different obstacles and challenges.

Already a multi-New Zealand Enduro Champion, MacDonald rides a Sherco with the support of Fabrizio Azzalin and his team Sherco CH Racing.

Motorcycling New Zealand’s General Manager Virginia Henderson says its been a golden few weeks for the country’s riders, with the sport producing two world champions within a month. Otago’s Courtney Duncan won the Women’s World Motocross Championship in September.


Australia goes one better at 2019 TdN in Ibiza

Team Australia arrived in Spain a week early this year ahead of the TdN assisting in their preparation for this year’s event. All riders (apart from Kristie McKinnon) riding in the final round of the FIM Trial GP before a week of training helping Australia to go into Ibiza strong with the added benefit of the terrain suiting our riders. The backdrop of this year’s TdN was spectacular, with sections right on the ocean across some concrete blocks along with a few other man-made sections.

FIM Trial Des Nations TdN Team Australia imgPepSegalesFIM
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM

2019 marks the 26th year that Team Australia have competed in the TdN men’s category and the 26th consecutive year, with Kyle Middleton having represented Australia 11-times, and joining Chris Bayles and Connor Hogan as a team for the fourth time.

Kristie McKinnon has also represented Australia 11-times, holding the record for Australian female trials riders, with Australia competing in the Women’s category for the 13th time in 2019, with McKinnon joined by Jenna Lupo and Lillie Yiatrou, who team up for the first time.

Kyle Middleton and Connor Hogan rode the qualification round for the men, finishing in an impressive fourth place, while Kristie McKinnon and Lillie Yiatrou rode for the Women qualifying in seventh.

FIM Trial Des Nations TdN Team Australia imgPepSegalesFIM
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM

After a hard day of riding, the men’s team of Kyle Middleton, Chris Bayles and Connor Hogan finished an impressive fifth place with a total of 18-points in the hotly-contested International Trophy after Germany took the win with a commanding victory over Sweden.

The women’s team of Kristie McKinnon, Lillie Yiatrou and Jenna Lupo scored 101-points to finish a place higher than 2018 in 7th with Spain taking the win ahead of Britain.

Kyle Middleton

“Our team was awesome, aside from probably two sections we were right there which leaves me wishing we could have had another shot at it. Also a special thanks for all the supporters and sponsors who helped get us here, including S3 Parts, GRO, Hebo and The Hell Team.”

With both teams happy with the improvements the focus is now on for the 2020 FIM Trial des Nation.

FIM Trial Des Nations TdN Team Australia imgPepSegalesFIM
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM

Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou once again led the Spanish team alongside compatriots Adam Raga and Jeroni Fajardo. Accruing a mere four penalty marks, the Spanish team dominated throughout the fifteen sections in Ibiza to clinch the 2019 Trial des Nations championship title. The victory represents a 26th national win, the 16th on the spin.

Toni Bou

“Today was an easy trial, where there was a lot of adherence in the sections, and we knew that we would have a tough job to make a difference. Finally, we rode a very intelligent trial – very good technically. We picked up two marks, both in section nine on each lap, where it was very easy to five. We cleaned the rest of the sections, so between the three of us we form a great team. Riding with them is always an honour. Congratulations to the organization for the trial.”

trialgp tdn men Spain
Toni Bou – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM

2019 International Trophy Results

  1. Germany – 1
  2. Sweden – 7
  3. United States – 8
  4. Austria – 11
  5. Australia – 18
  6. Czech Republic – 19
  7. Belgium – 30
  8. Switzerland – 48
  9. Ireland – 55
  10. Andorra – 119

2019 Trial des Nations Championship

  1. Spain – 4
  2. Japan – 19
  3. France – 24
  4. Great Britain – 27
  5. Italy – 45
  6. Norway – 95
trialgp tdn podiums ps
2019 Trial des Nations championship podium

2019 Women’s Trials Des Nations Result

  1. Spain – 3
  2. Great Britain – 10
  3. Norway – 18
  4. Germany – 22
  5. United States – 26
  6. France – 33
  7. Australia – 101
  8. Portugal – 147
  9. Switzerland – 287
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2019 Australian Junior Dirt Track run at Somersby over weekend

Only two riders were able to win more than one championship class over two days of exciting racing at the 2019 Honda Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships at the Allen Park track at Somersby on the weekend. Thirteen classes produced 11 different winners, and a string of other place-getters who all helped confirm that the future of the sport is in good hands.

Albury Wodonga rider Archie McDonald won both of the classes for the 11 to Under 13 years classes which is currently the most ‘red-hot’ of all the age brackets.

The always highly competitive 13 to Under 16 years classes produced the other dual winner in Forbes rider Tom Drane who was denied a third win in the last of the weekend’s final. After finishing runner-up in three other classes Gold Coast rider Seth Qualischefski finally got the better of Drane to add a win to his medal haul.

Qualischefski was a tireless performer on the weekend being one of a few riders to contest four classes, which in total meant he rode 84 laps of racing. There were also three other Gold Coast riders who claimed a championship class win.

Ashleigh Adamson took out the Girls class beating Ava Faulkhead from Mildura and Molly Fairey from Cobar to produce a very geographically diverse rostrum. Sympathy goes to Anika Loftus though from Brisbane won the first three rounds before she was injured.

The other Gold Coast successes went to Rory McQualter who added two third placings to his win, and Viv Muddle who placed third as he strived to make it a double.

Two other class winners also added to their medal haul with Cowra rider Noah Grabham adding two seconds to his win, while Kempsey’s Jayden Holder scored one third place.

Tom Drane will have to start making room for his brother Sam to build his trophy collection as Sam won his first ever Australian Championship.

The host club boasted one championship class winner in Lachlan Russell, a feat matched by the Kurri Kurri Junior Club thanks to a win by Thomas Bullen.

With such a classy line-up of talent assembled even qualifying for the finals in some classes was no easy feat, with some of the minor place-getters still left pleased with their efforts, including a number who gained their best ever results.

Special mention must be made of Kurri Kurri rider Cameron Dunker and Albury Wodonga rider Remmie Fyffe who were both dual place getters.

Riders travelled from as far afield as Townsville in the north, Cobar and Mildura in the west and Melbourne in the south with the much-travelled families praising the host club for its staging of the meeting.

Australian Junior Dirt Track Results
2019 Australian Junior Dirt Track
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Thad Duvall claims 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC Overall Win

The second Annual Mason-Dixon GNCC concluded round 11 of the 2019 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series on Sunday, where dry, dusty and higher temperatures greeted the afternoon race, making it a rough course for many of the competitors.

Thad Duvall would manage to make it through the gruelling three-hour race, crossing the finish line 39 seconds ahead of the competition. With track conditions proving difficult for many other riders, Duvall and his team put in their best effort to keep pushing until the checkered flag came out. Duvall earned his fourth overall win of the season, and his second straight win at the Mason-Dixon GNCC in Pennsylvania.

GNCC Rnd Mason Dixon Mount Morris Thad Duvall KH
Thad Duvall – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill

Coming through second for the second race in a row was Ricky Russell. Throughout the day Russell would find himself battling it out with several different XC1 Open Pro riders, but he would manage to hold onto the second place position as the white flag came out indicating one more lap to go. Russell currently sits sixth in the points standings with two rounds remaining in the season.

With Kelley moving out of the XC2 250 Pro class, it was Liam Draper coming away with his first-ever XC2 class win. Drapers’ consistency paid off after starting out second in the class and making the move to first once when the two-lap card came out and then again on the last lap. Craig Delong came through second after battling his way to the front of the class ahead of Evan Smith.

GNCC Rnd Mason Dixon Mount Morris Liam Draper XC Pro class win KH
Liam Draper – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill

The FMF XC3 125cc Pro-Am class had a lot of changes of lead throughout the duration of the race. However, it would be Jake Froman coming out to earn his first-ever win. Jesse Ansley, who currently leads the class points, held the lead after grabbing the holeshot. Ansley would fight back for a second place finish with Chase Colville also battling back to round out the podium. Colville would hold the lead at one point in the race, but would suffer bike issues causing a long pit stop, to still fight back to third in the class.

Simon Johnson took home the top amateur honors with his 250 A class win and a 14th overall. Brody Johnson came through 15th overall and earned second in the 250 A class along with the amateur podium. Tristan Landrum came through third in the 250 A class, and 17th overall claiming the final spot on the amateur podium.

When the 10 a.m. race kicked off Tayla Jones grabbied the early lead. However, Becca Sheets made her way to the front of the pack, to make the pass for the first place position. Sheets and Jones would battle back and forth and after trouble on an uphill during the last lap, Jones made the pass on Sheets and came through to take the win.

GNCC Rnd Mason Dixon Mount Morris Tayla Jones KH
Tayla Jones – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill

Sheets finished second and Korie Steede battled forward to earn her place on the WXC podium for the first-time ever. Jones and Sheets made up the first two in the overall positions, but it would be Blayke Coler of the 125 B/C class working his way on adjusted time to the third overall position.

Tayla Jones

“Pumped to pull the holeshot on the weekend and brought home another GNCC Racing win. It was a tight race all day and with track conditions on the extremely dry side it made it really tough. Only two rounds to go for the season, ready to fight for it! Thank you to the @bauer651, the whole @rockstarhusky team and the Barnes’ for their help over the weekend and of course a huge shoutout to all of my awesome sponsors.”

As the 8 a.m. youth race took off it was Joseph Cunningham came through in the first place position, working towards earning the youth overall national championship. Nolette and Kuneff tried to apply the pressure up front, but would ultimately fall just short as Cunningham came through to the checkered flag first. Cunningham earned the Youth Overall National Championship, as Nolette took home second in the YXC1 Super Mini Sr. class and overall with Kuneff behind him in third.

GNCC Rnd Mason Dixon Mount Morris Joseph Cunningham KH
Joseph Cunningham – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill

In the YXC2 Super Mini Jr. class it was Grant Davis coming through the pack to earn his ninth win of the season. Davis currently sits first in the points standings as the series heads into the last two rounds. Jack Joy came through to take second in the YXC2 class followed by Garyson Smith clinching third and the last spot on the class podium.

XC1 Pro Event Results

  1. Thad Duvall (HQV)
  2. Ricky Russell (YAM)
  3. Trevor Bollinger (HQV)
  4. Andrew Delong (HON)
  5. Layne Michael (HQV)
  6. Kailub Russell (KTM)
  7. Josh Toth (KTM)
  8. Benjamin Kelley (KTM)
  9. Chris Venditti (KAW)
  10. Takanori Nakajima (YAM)

Overall National Championship Standings

  1. Kailub Russell (295)
  2. Thad Duvall (258)
  3. Steward Baylor Jr. (198)
  4. Ben Kelley (166)
  5. Trevor Bollinger (162)
  6. Ricky Russell (123)
  7. Andrew Delong (121)
  8. Josh Strang (103)
  9. Jordan Ashburn (113)
  10. Josh Toth (107)

XC2 250 Pro Event Results

  1. Liam Draper (KTM)
  2. Craig Delong (HQV)
  3. Evan Smith (HQV)
  4. Austin Lee (HON)
  5. Zach Hayes (KTM)
  6. Ben Parsons (HQV)
  7. Jesse Groemm (KTM)
  8. Dylan Yearbury (YAM)
  9. Samuel Evans (KTM)

XC2 250 Pro Series Standings

  1. Benjamin Kelley (300)
  2. Michael Witkowski (189)
  3. Craig Delong (188)
  4. Evan Smith (183)
  5. Liam Draper (172)
  6. Austin Lee (164)
  7. Ryder Lafferty (145)
  8. Jonathan Johnson (137)
  9. Alex Teagarden (123)
  10. Ben Parsons (113)
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Jared Mees tops AFT season finale

Jared Mees has topped AFT season finale in the Twins Main Event at the Meadowlands Mile, with Briar Bauman having already closed out the title in advance.

AFT Meadowlands Mile Twins Podium FA
Jared Mees topped the AFT Twins podium – 2019 AFT – Meadowlands Mile – Image by Scott Hunter

In the AFT Singles Dalton Gauthier claimed the championship win with a very safe 14th place finish, while Mikey Rush topped proceedings, with Australian Max Whale in eighth and ninth in the overall standings.

The AFT Production Twins Corey Texter took the title, despite a mechanical issue regulating him to 14th, with chief rival Kolby Carlile a DNF.

See the full report here:
Mees wraps up AFT season with Meadowlands Mile win

2019 AFT Twins Standings

Pos Rider Points
1 Briar Bauman 326
2 Jared Mees 320
3 Bronson Bauman 251
4 Jeffrey Carver Jr. 223
5 Brandon Robinson 206
6 Jarod Vanderkooi 200
7 Henry Wiles 181
8 Robert Pearson 171
9 Davis Fisher 156
10 Sammy Halbert 156

2019 AFT Singles Standings

Pos Rider Points
1 Dalton Gauthier 286
2 Mikey Rush 280
3 Dan Bromley 277
4 Ryan Wells 197
5 Chad Cose 190
6 Jesse Janisch 183
7 Shayna Texter 172
8 Morgen Mischler 171
9 Max Whale 143
10 Kevin Stollings 121

2019 AFT Production Twins Standings

Pos Rider Points
1 Cory Texter 190
2 Ryan Varnes 182
3 Kolby Carlile 173
4 Dalton Gauthier 145
5 Chad Cose 139
6 James Rispoli 133
7 Cody Johncox 123
8 J.R. Addison 111
9 Ben Lowe 100
10 Kevin Stollings 90
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Netherlands claims MXoN win from Belgium and Great Britain

Team Netherands has taken the 2019 MXoN win, with Glenn Coldenhoff, Jeffrey Herlings and Calvin Vlaanderen proving unbeatable at Assen, with Team Belgium a distant second represented by Jeremy Van Horebeek, Kevin Strijbos and Jago Geerts, and Team Great Britain third with riders Shaun Simpson, Nathan Watson and Adam Sterry.

MXoN Herlings JK MXON
Jeffrey Herlings – Team Netherlands – 2019 MXoN – Image by Hoppenworld

See the full report here:
Dutch top sloppy home soil MXoN | Australia 15th due to mechanicals

2019 Motocross of Nations Classification

Pos Country Points
1 The Netherlands 18  
2 Belgium 47  
3 Great Britain 58  
4 Estonia 64  
5 France 68  
6 USA 68  
7 Germany 72  
8 Latvia 73  
9 Spain 73  
10 Denmark 77  
11 Switzerland 81  
12 Norway 87  
13 Slovenia 89  
14 Sweden 91  
15 Australia 93  
16 Italy 113  
17 Austria 122  
18 Ireland 150  
19 New Zealand 171  
20 Rep. of South Africa 151  

2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale wraps up

After two thrilling days riding on the international stage for the first time at the Motocross of Nations, the 2019 YZ bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup came to an end on Sunday with the YZ125 race. YZ125 riders faced heavy rain and difficult conditions on Sunday at the TT Circuit Assen, contesting the last 2019 SuperFinale race after the YZ65 and YZ85 riders competed on Saturday.

YZ bLU cRU SuperFinale
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale

As the gate dropped practice leader Mairis Pumpurs took the holeshot to establish a very strong lead. Behind him Bobby Bruce also built on his practice pace to take second, battling with Spanish rider #252 Raul Sanchez behind. As the track got more challenging every rider put their head down over the 20-minute race.

With Pumpurs sitting unchallenged in first place he took the victory nearly a minute clear, followed home by Sanchez, who battled past Bruce, in second and third respectively to complete the podium at the weekend’s most difficult and entertaining bLUcRU SuperFinale race.

For Pumpurs, Sanchez and Bruce, the bLU cRU Masterclass awaits in November in Spain, where they will be joined by two YZ125 wildcards as they further develop their riding skills under expert tutorials and guidance. From the Masterclass, one of the five YZ125 riders will then win a place with the MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 team for the 2020 EMX125 Championship.

YZ bLU cRU SuperFinale
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale podium

2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale Top 10

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Gap
1 Pumpurs, Mairis LAT Yamaha 00:00.0
2 Sanchez, Raul ESP Yamaha 00:57.9
3 Bruce, Bobby GBR Yamaha 01:10.3
4 Razzini, Pietro ITA Yamaha 01:22.1
5 de Beer, Ryan NED Yamaha 01:29.4
6 Modin, Arvid SWE Yamaha 01:41.9
7 de Lange, Sem NED Yamaha 01:48.6
8 Gimm, Daniel ITA Yamaha 02:12.3
9 Sagmalis, Antonis GRE Yamaha 02:33.6
10 Depoers, Simon FRA Yamaha 1 lap
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Cross-Countries Rally head to Rallye du Maroc

This Friday the 20th edition of the Rallye du Maroc is due to get underway, representing the fourth and final test of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and the final competition ahead of the Dakar Rally.

Fez, one of Morocco’s imperial cities and the country’s cultural and religious centre, will host the forthcoming Rallye du Maroc, the fourth points-paying round of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship.

Desafio Ruta Rally Toby Price
Toby Price won the Rallye du Maroc in 2018

Morocco has always been a land of rally raid. The story began in 1982 with the arrival of Paris-Agadir, the first rally raid to run in Morocco. The following year, the rally took the name of ‘Atlas Rally’ and became the flagship rally to the Rally Raids calendar. The Atlas
Rally saw the best drivers and teams in the discipline run.

The Atlas Rally, after having changed hands from the company Larivièr et to ASO, disappeared at the end of the 90’s. It was then reborn in 2000 as ‘Rallye du Maroc’, under the leadership of Cyril Neveu and Jean Christophe Pelletier. The rally immediately became the major Moroccan rally and welcomed again the elite of rally raid.

In 2007, the company NPO, organiser of the Rallye du Maroc, was sold to Emma and Stéphane Clair and became an event in the FIM World Championship and the FIA World Cup. After 10 years at the head of the event, NPO sold the Rallye du Maroc to the company ODC, led by David Castera.

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Road racer Jessopp tries WESS at Hawkstone Park XC

As well as bringing together many of the world’s best Enduro racers, all looking to be crowned Ultimate Enduro World Champion, the World Enduro Super Series also attracts athletes at the pinnacle of other two-wheeled sports – competitors looking to dip a toe in the WESS waters. Round six of the series, the Hawkstone Park Cross-Country, saw stars of mountain biking and road racing out in force all keen to wrestle the gruelling Shropshire sands.

Martin Jessopp Hawkstone Park Cross Country FM
Martin Jessopp – Image by Future7Media

During the two days of racing, mountain bike star Josh Bryceland, former mountain bike racer Rob Warner and Isle of Man TT racer Martin Jessopp lined up against some of the world’s best Enduro riders.

Better known for his accomplishments in road racing, Martin Jessopp is a two-time TT podium finisher having lapped the infamous circuit at over 131mph, along with winning the North West 200 three times.

At the Hawkstone Park Cross-Country he showed his talents carry across to dirt too, finishing Saturday’s Sprint Enduro third in Clubman 2T, before securing sixth in Sunday’s Original Fast Eddy Cross-Country.

Martin Jessopp

“I’ve been trying to spend more time riding Enduro, but I didn’t expect to do so well. I didn’t make too many mistakes and tried to save energy where I could. It’s been awesome to race alongside the Pro riders – in a way it’s kind of role reversal for me, which I enjoyed. It’s incredible to see how fast they can ride these conditions and hold their corner speed between the trees. A highlight was when Graham Jarvis came past and I tried to stick with him for a couple of corners before he disappeared!”

Martin Jessopp Hawkstone Park Cross Country FM
Martin Jessopp – Image by Future7Media

World Enduro Super Series – 2019 Calendar

  • Round 7: BR2 Enduro Solsona (Spain) October 4-6
  • Round 8: GetzenRodeo (Germany) November 2
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2019 KTM AJMX Interstate Challenge Teams announced

Motorcycling Australia have announced the riders who have been chosen to represent each of their states at the KTM AJMX Nationals in Gillman, South Australia this week.

These riders form part of the selection that is required for the Interstate Challenge Cup. That format is each state is to choose a team of eight riders from four different classes to compete for this cup. Eight out of the 13 team members must be named to the Race Secretary of the event by the end of practice.

AJMX Penguin Tas Atmos
AJMX 2018

Each of those competitors is then scored within their own class. At the end of the event, the team with the highest point scoring six team members from each state will have their final placings re-scored for an overall score. The state with the highest overall team score is the winner.

  • New South Wales
    • 2 Ky WOODS 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
    • 22 Connor TOWILL 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
    • 20 Ben NOVAK 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
    • 264 Hunter COLLINS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
    • 254 Jack DEVESON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 294 Koby HANTIS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 2 Taylor THOMPSON 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
    • 25 Blake FOX 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
  • Tasmania
    • 756 Brodie FAULKNER 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
    • 7 Jay JENNINGS 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 75 Cooper FORD 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 759 Brydie HINGSTON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
    • 751 Angus PEARCE 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
    • 757 Jett BURGESS-STEVENS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
    • 757 Jett BURGESS-STEVENS 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 76 Evan LOCKWOOD 100-125cc 2st 15 Years
  • Northern Territory
    • 198 Rhys Gwynne 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
    • 106 Mitchell Thorneycroft 85cc 9-U12 Years
    • 174 Clayton Bogucki 85cc 9-U12 Years
    • 100 Ryan Van Deventer 85cc 12-U14 Years
    • 100 Ryan Van Deventer 125cc 13-U15 Years
    • 141 Jayden O’Connor 125cc 13-U15 Years
    • 138 Thomas Bennett 125cc 15 Years
    • 521 Declan SMART 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
  • Western Australia
    • 68 Liam ATKINSON 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 658 Mason BROWN 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 60 Brock FLYNN 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 602 Deegan FORT 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
    • 66 Kayden MINEAR 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
    • 66 Kayden MINEAR 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 66 Jaylee RIMBAS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
    • 65 Seth SHACKLETON 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
  • South Australia
    • 5 Alex LARWOOD 100-125cc 2st 15 Years
    • 5 Wil CARPENTER 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 51 Dakota COLLINS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
    • 52 Taj GOW-SMITH 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 53 Jai HAY 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 5 Emma HAYLOCK 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
    • 5 Alex LARWOOD 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
    • 5 Levi ROSSI 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
  • Queensland
    • 46 Taylah MCCUTCHEON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
    • 47 Ryan ALEXANDERSON 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 42 Jet ALSOP 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 494 Charli CANNON 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
    • 4 Cooper DOWNING 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 46 Kobe DREW 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
    • 401 Levi ROGERS 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
    • 45 Brad WEST 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 15 Years
  • Victoria
    • 37 Kipp ADAMS 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
    • 32 Jobe DUNNE 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
    • 352 Oscar FOX 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
    • 370 Connor GUILLOT 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
    • 32 Madison HEALEY 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
    • 38 Thynan KEAN 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 15 Years
    • 34 Jake SANDERSON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
    • 39 Connar ADAMS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
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2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule

The 12-round schedule for the 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing has been announced. The 49th season will once again visit 11 different states over the course of the summer, beginning with the legendary Hangtown Motocross Classic on May 16, and concluding with the Ironman National on August 29.

The most talented collection of riders on the planet will battle it out over the course of 24 motos across the 450 Class and 250 Class, pushing both their physical and mental limits in the most grueling conditions found in any motorsports championship. Their quest to capture the most coveted titles in motocross, the Edison Dye Cup (450 Class) and the Gary Jones Cup (250 Class), will bring these exceptional athletes to the most storied racetracks in the world, many of which boast legacies that span more than four decades.

AMA MX Rnd Starts JK MX Ironman
2019 Ironman National – 2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Round 12 – Image by Hoppenworld

With three consecutive 450 Class titles to his credit, reigning champion Eli Tomac will look to make even more history next summer, seeking to become one of just two riders to hoist the Edison Dye Cup for four straight seasons.

AMA MX Rnd Tomac JK MX Ironman
Eli Tomac – 2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Ironman National – Image by Hoppenworld

He’ll welcome a new challenger to that title defense under the Monster Energy Kawasaki tent, where newly crowned 250 Class Champion Adam Cianciarulo will step up onto the big bikes as a teammate to Tomac, joining the likes of a deep list of fellow contenders that includes Ken Roczen, Marvin Musquin, Jason Anderson, Zach Osborne, Cooper Webb and more.

AMA MX Rnd Cianciarulo JK MX Unadilla
Adam Cianciarulo – Image by Hoppenworld

With Cianciarulo’s departure from the 250 Class, the title vacancy opens the door for a wide-open battle to claim the Gary Jones Cup, where Jeremy Martin, the lone former champion in the division, will battle it out alongside a promising group of up and coming talent, led by teammates Dylan Ferrandis and Justin Cooper.

2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule

  • May 16 – Hangtown Classic Prairie City SVRA Rancho Cordova, Calif.
  • May 23 – Fox Raceway National Fox Raceway Pala, Calif.
  • May 30 – Thunder Valley National Thunder Valley Motocross Park Lakewood, Colo.
  • Jun 06 – Florida National WW Ranch Motocross Park Jacksonville, Fla.
  • Jun 20 – High Point National High Point Raceway Mt. Morris, Pa.
  • Jun 27 – Southwick National The Wick 338 Southwick, Mass.
  • Jul 04 – RedBud National RedBud MX Buchanan, Mich.
  • Jul 18 – Spring Creek National Spring Creek MX Park Millville, Minn.
  • Jul 25 – Washougal National Washougal MX Park Washougal, Wash.
  • Aug 15 – Unadilla National Unadilla MX New Berlin, N.Y.
  • Aug 22 – Budds Creek National Budds Creek Motocross Park Mechanicsville, Md.
  • Aug 29 – Ironman National Ironman Raceway Crawfordsville, Ind.
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Rene Hofer join Red Bull KTM MX2 effort full-time in 2020

Rene Hofer will join Red Bull KTM as a full-time Grand Prix rider in 2020. The 17 year old impressed with three wild-card MX2 appearances in 2019 in what was his first full year of competition with the KTM 250 SX-F. The Austrian will give KTM factory presence in the MX2 class alongside Tom Vialle next season with double world champion Jorge Prado joining the MXGP category with Tony Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings.

Rene Hofer Red Bull KTM MX
Rene Hofer joins Red Bull KTM MX2 full time in 2020

The teenager (who will turn 18 in the first days of 2020) is a former FIM Junior and European Champion and has risen through the ranks. He won EMX125 European Championship races in 2018 and was a contender for the title until a mid-season injury. Hofer claimed a podium finish and classified fourth in the EMX250 standings at his first attempt in 2019.

The rider from Linz joined the Grand Prix team for three appearances this summer; taking his first FIM world championship points in the Czech Republic and then scoring seventh place overall at the Grand Prix of Italy at Imola. He also represented Team Austria as one of the three best racers from his country for the 73rd Motocross of Nations at the TT Circuit Assen.

Hofer will be the first Austrian to represent the modern incarnation of Red Bull KTM, the first in MX2 and the third native in the factory team after Heinz Kinigadner and current VP of Offroad Robert Jonas.

Rene Hofer

“I’m super-excited. We’ve really worked for this over the last couple of years and my dreams are coming true right now. We were not sure if it would happen for 2020 but I showed some good speed in the second half of the season and also that I could compete in good positions in MX2. I felt confident in the class from the very first time, even if the weekend routine is pretty different from EMX. I’m so grateful to be able to have the chance to ride for the most successful team in the GP paddock and to have the best racing people around me as well as being able to learn from Tom. I’ve trained with him a few times now and he’s a really nice guy. He had an unbelievable rookie season and I think we can put in some solid preparation work over the winter to be ready for 2020. I turn 18 next year and I know I am ready for this step. For sure the result in Imola was very good but I will be hungry for more and I will bring in the very best effort from my side. I cannot forget to thank all the people who have helped me reach this stage of my career and who have helped shape me as a rider and as a human. I cannot wait to start work for 2020 but first I need to focus on this weekend!”

Rene Hofer Red Bull KTM MX
Rene Hofer joins Red Bull KTM MX2 full time in 2020

Mathys Boisrame joins F&H Kawasaki

Team F&H Kawasaki will line up the last two European champions in the 2020 FIM World MX2 Motocross Championship as 2018 champion Mathys Boisrame joins Roan van de Moosdijk in the Dutch team.

One of the youngest teams in the GP paddock, Team F&H Kawasaki has a short but already successful story as they have clinched MX2 GP podium results during each of the past two seasons as well as the 2019 European title.

Just a few years after its creation by Harry Fase, F&H has been involved in both the EMX250 and MX2 championships this season and it was the logical progression for the team’s European champion Roan van de Moosdijk to transfer to the MX2 World Championship. He will be joined in 2020 by Mathys Boisrame, the French youngster who recorded a top ten world ranking during his rookie MX2 GP campaign this season; the 2018 European champion, who turned twenty-one this summer, has shown great potential with numerous top ten results throughout the season and an overall podium in Germany. The team will line up three riders in the MX2 World Championship next year; the identity of the third exciting signing will be revealed soon.

Mathys Boisrame

“I’m really happy to finally join the F&H Kawasaki team as we already talked together last year after my European title. This year was a learning curve for me in the World Championship; I did my best with the material I had but for sure there’s a big step between the European and World Championship and I was so impressed when I did a test with the KX250 Kawasaki. The bike handles so well, is really powerful and the team is so professional that it didn’t take me long to know I wanted to sign with them. It will be a huge change for me as I will move to the team base in the Netherlands on November 1st; for sure it’s not easy to leave home but I know what I want. Being close to the team, working with Marc de Reuver and riding in the sand will bring me all the tools for us to succeed together.”

Kawasaki MATHYS FH PH
Mathys Boisrame joins F&H Kawasaki
Nathalie Fase – F&H Kawasaki Team Manager

“We had a great season winning the Dutch and European titles, finishing fifth and sixth in the World Championship and we are very happy to add Mathys Boisrame, the 2018 European Champion, to our team for the upcoming years! We look forward to the new season and hope to be able to push again for great podiums! All ingredients are in the house, so bring it on!”

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KTM takes over Gas Gas

As part of the deal with Gas Gas, KTM also secures a controlling stake in the Torrot electric motorcycles and bicycles business as part of the deal struck ith Black Toro Capital, the owners of both Gas Gas and Torrot.

This move further expands the KTM portfolio (Husqvarna, WP etc), which will in future, presumably due to its now much broader stake in even more brands, will be renamed to Pierer Mobility AG.

Gas Gas GG XC act
2019 Gas Gas XC 300

In this instance though it seems KTM have agreed to keep the Spanish Gas Gas plant in Girona for at least the next three years. Gas Gas was originally formed from the ashes of Bultaco when that brand went tits-up in the mid 1980s. Gas Gas merged with Ossa in 2014.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | AMA MX | GNCC | AFT | WESS | SGP | Manjimup

Moto News Wrap for June 4, 2019 by Darren Smart

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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The LATEST News

  • Thunder Valley AMA MX falls to Roczen and Cianciarulo
  • Russell wins New York GNCC
  • Yamaha dominates Dutch Masters
  • Mees wins Lexington Red Mile
  • Jarvis wins Erzberg
  • Zmarzlik wins Slovenian FIM Speedway Grand Prix
  • Duffy wins Manjimup 15000
  • RecoveR8: Naming rights sponsor for 2019 Australian ISDE Team

Thunder Valley AMA MX falls to Roczen and Cianciarulo

Denver’s Thunder Valley National provided the setting for the third round of the 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship and it was Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen who went 1-2 to earn his second 450 Class win of the season while Adam Cianciarulo made it three in a row in the 250 class.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Starts JK MX Lakewood
450 Start – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

450 Report

Despite the hard charging Zach Osborne earning the holeshot Roczen won the opening moto by over 30 seconds over Osborne and Cooper Webb while Jason Anderson and Eli Tomac pushing Dean Ferris from fourth to sixth in the dying laps. But the ride of the moto came from Marvin Musquin who crashed after being pushed off the track in the second turn by Justin Barcia but Marv bounced back to earn a sensational eighth place finish from dead last.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Roczen JK MX Lakewood
Ken Roczen – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

It is also worth noting that Tomac had to stop for new goggles when his tear off system failed while Todd Waters came from way back to a credible 14th place finish.

The final moto of the day saw Webb get the holeshot over Roczen, Blake Baggett, Musquin and Tomac with Ferris sitting in ninth and Waters just inside the top 20 but it didn’t take long before Roczen was in the lead and stretching it out.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Tomac JK MX Lakewood
Eli Tomac – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Tomac had his work cut out for him but he eventually got around the three KTMs of Baggett, Musquin and Webb to cement second place. It then took another 15 minutes to catch and pass Roczen for the lead and the eventual win by 9.1 seconds. Tomac took the win ahead of Roczen while Musquin, Osborne, Anderson, Barcia, Baggett, Webb, Ferris and Justin Bogle rounded out the top ten. Waters finished 14th.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Waters Privateers JK MX Lakewood
Todd Waters – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Roczen’s 1-2 effort easily gave him his second overall victory of the season while Tomac’s second-moto win vaulted him to second overall ahead of Osborne who earned his first 450 Class podium result in third.

Ken Roczen

“I tried all the way through [to the second moto finish]. [Tomac] was just quicker in the end there. The good thing was I didn’t let him get away. I almost got together with a lapper there coming to the white flag. He crashed right in front of me. It definitely got rougher in the second moto, for sure, but we did exactly what we needed to do to get the overall [win].”

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Roczen JK MX Lakewood
Ken Roczen – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

With the win, Roczen holds a two-point lead over Tomac, while Osborne moved into third, 26 points out of the lead as the whole series takes a week off.

As for the Aussies, Ferris earned a lot of brownie points by holding down fourth place for the majority of the opening moto before backing that up with a solid ninth in the second moto for eighth overall, to also sit eighth in the points. Waters is suffering from poor starts but he continually puts his privateer Husqvarna inside the top 15 to now sit 14th in the points – hats off to both riders.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Ferris JK MX Lakewood
Dean Ferris – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Dean Ferris

“Big improvements for me today, I got two reasonably good starts and kind of got pulled along with the big group. We made improvements with the bike. I’m somewhat comfortable now and feel like we’re getting the train on the tracks now for the rest of the season. The conditions were demanding, the track was really rutted and rough as usual, but I liked it. I’m definitely really happy about the improvements we made and the result this weekend. It’s something to build on.”

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Podium JK MX Lakewood
450 Podium 1) Roczen, 2) Tomac, 3) Osborne – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

450 Overall

  1. Ken Roczen 1-2
  2. Eli Tomac 5-1
  3. Zachary Osborne 2-4
  4. Jason Anderson 4-5
  5. Marvin Musquin 8-3
  6. Cooper Webb 3-8
  7. Blake Baggett 7-7
  8. Dean Ferris 6-9
  9. Justin Barcia 11-6
  10. Justin Bogle 10-10
  11. Cole Seely 9-12
  12. Justin Hill 12-11
  13. Fredrik Noren 15-13
  14. Todd Waters 14-14
    …32. Cody Cooper 30-29

450 Points after Round 3 of 12

  1. Ken Roczen – 136
  2. Eli Tomac – 134
  3. Zach Osborne – 110
  4. Marvin Musquin – 107
  5. Jason Anderson – 106
  6. Cooper Webb – 98
  7. Justin Barcia – 77
  8. Dean Ferris – 69
  9. Justin Bogle – 63
  10. Blake Baggett – 61
  11. Cole Seely – 59
  12. Justin Hill – 51
  13. Fredrik Noren – 46
  14. Todd Waters – 46
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250 Class Report

The first 250 Class moto of the afternoon saw RJ Hampshire, Cianciarulo, Justin Cooper, Colt Nichols and Dylan Ferrandis all going toe-to-toe but there was no stopping Cooper. He blew by Cianciarulo and Hampshire to take the lead by the end of lap three but then the rain started to fall and Cianciarulo soon moved to second.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Starts JK MX Lakewood
250 Start – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Cianciarulo began chipping away at his deficit to Cooper as they battled both the rain and lapped traffic but it was obvious that Cianciarulo was the fastest rider on the track before race officials were forced to bring the moto to an end due to lightning. This handed Cooper the win ahead of Cianciarulo. Ferrandis, Michael Mosiman and Hampshire while the Aussie duo of Hunter Lawrence and Wilson Todd finished 10th and 14th respectively.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Cianciarulo JK MX Lakewood
Adam Cianciarulo – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Cooper earned the holeshot in moto two over Cianciarulo, Jordan Smith and Nichols but the top two soon gapped the field with Cianciarulo continually using wide lines to try and get around Cooper, which saw the championship leader briefly jump through track markers before re-joining the circuit to continue the pursuit again.

Cooper then gave up the lead after a major bobble which caused him to veer off track and onto the ground handing Cianciarulo the lead and the eventual win, well ahead of Cooper, Mossiman, Nichols and Ferrandis with Lawrence managing a credible seventh while Todd came home in 17th after a small crash mid moto.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley CooperJ JK MX Lakewood
Justin Cooper – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

With identical moto scores between them, Cianciarulo (2-1) and Cooper (1-2) ended up tied for the overall win, but by virtue of his second-moto triumph, his third straight, Cianciarulo earned the tiebreaker to capture his third consecutive overall victory. Cooper settled for his third runner-up finish in a row, while Mosiman (4-3) earned the first overall podium result of his career on a breakthrough afternoon.

Six points still separate Cianciarulo and Cooper in the 250 Class standings, while Ferrandis, who finished fourth (3-5), remains third, 33 points out of the lead.

Adam Cianciarulo

“That was a great [final] moto. Justin [Cooper] has been riding so good lately and we’re really pushing each other so much, I’m really enjoying [the battles]. It feels incredible to get three wins in a row. We’ve been putting in so much work, so to get the season start the way we have is amazing.”

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Cianciarulo JK MX Lakewood
Adam Cianciarulo – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX
Michael Mosiman

“It feels so good to have the monkey off my back, to hit the podium and carry the confidence that brings is super awesome. We are absolutely shredding out there so to be able to run the pace is super cool, to finally get the podium is super exciting, just stoked for all of my friends, family and everyone who have been backing me all this while, this is cool.”

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Mosiman JK MX Lakewood
Michael Mosiman – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

Todd had his work cut out for him in the second race after starting deep in the field. A hard working ride lifted him to 17th by race end, leaving him 15th for the round the same position he now sits in the 250 series standings.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Wilson Todd Privateers JK MX Lakewood
Wilson Todd – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

The 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship will observe its first off weekend of the summer next weekend, before returning to action on Saturday, June 15, with the Circle K High Point National in Mt. Morris, Pennsylvania.

AMA MX Rnd Thunder Valley Podium JK MX Lakewood
250 Podium – 2019 Thunder Valley National MX

250 Overall

  1. Adam Cianciarulo 2-1
  2. Justin Cooper 1-2
  3. Michael Mosiman 4-3
  4. Dylan Ferrandis 3-5
  5. Chase Sexton 7-6
  6. Colt Nichols 13-4
  7. RJ Hampshire 5-11
  8. Hunter Lawrence 10-7
  9. Shane McElrath 8-10
  10. 10, Jordon Smith 11-8
  11. Garrett Marchbanks 12-9
  12. Alex Martin 9-12
  13. Ty Masterpool 6-16
  14. Brandon Hartranft 16-14
  15. Wilson Todd 14-17
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Russell Wins New York GNCC

New York hosted Round 7 of the GNCC series and it was the defending champion in Kailub Russell who secured his fourth win for 2019 once again ahead of arch rival Thad Duvall and fellow KTM rider Steward Baylor while Aussie Josh Strang struggled to ninth place.

GNCC Tomahawk XC Open Pro Kailub Russell
Kaileb Russell topped the Tomahawk GNCC XC1 Open Pro Podium – Image by Ken Hill

Russell continues to lead the points by 18 over Duvall with Strang maintaining his fifth position which is unfortunately over 100 points behind Russell.

In the other classes Ben Kelly earned his seventh straight XC2 class win before Nick Davis earned his first XC3 win. Thankfully Tayla Jones got her championship back on track with a win in the WMX class to reduce her points deficit to championship leader Becca Sheet to just two – fellow Aussie Mackenzie tricker finished back in eighth.

XC1 Open Pro – Bike – Class Points

  1. Kailub K Russell – 195
  2. Thaddeus Duvall – 177
  3. Steward Baylor Jr – 141
  4. Trevor Bollinger – 127
  5. Josh V Strang – 92

Yamaha Dominated Dutch Masters

Rhenen hosted the latest round of the Dutch Masters and it was Yamaha pilots Romain Febvre and Jago Geerts who earned the MXGP and MX2 overall wins respectively but the big news was the return to racing by defending MXGP World Champion Jeffrey Herlings who finished third overall in the MXGP class with 1-4 moto results.

Febvre went 3-1 for the overall with Arminas Jasikonis going 2–2 for second overall ahead of Herlings, Pauls Jonass and Glen Coldenhoff while Geerts continued his red-hot form to go 1-1 to earn the MX2 overall ahead of teammate Ben Watson while Roan Van De Moosdijk rounded out the podium.

MXGP Overall

  1. Romain Febvre
  2. Arminas Jasikonis
  3. Jeffrey Herlings
  4. Pauls Jonass
  5. Glenn Coldenhoff
  6. Petar Petrov
  7. Lars Van Berkel
  8. Sven Van De Mierden
  9. Jeffrey Dewulf
  10. Luca Nijenhuis

MX2 Overall

  1. Jago Geerts
  2. Ben Watson
  3. Roan Van De Moosdijk
  4. Henry Jacobi
  5. Bas Vaessen
  6. Brent Van Donick
  7. Raivo Dankers
  8. Adam Steery
  9. Tom Vialle
  10. Freek Van Der Vlist

Mees Wins Lexington Red Mile

AFT Twins Red Mile AFT Twins Main Event AXI
Lexington Red Mile – American Flat Track 2019

Lexington hosted the Lexington Red Mile last weekend and it was the defending AFT champion Jared Mees who finally got his first main event win for 2019 despite being badgered by current points leader and Indian teammate Briar Bauman all of the way to the flag. Mees has now won eight of the last 12 Miles dating back to 2017’s Red Mile.

Jared Mees

“I started to get a little worried about tires. When we had that red flag, it looked like we were buzzing the tires down pretty good, so I wanted to slow the pace down a little bit and try to ease it off in the corners and keep it inline. I knew if I did that (Briar) was going to catch me. But the Indian Motorcycle has worked so good all day… it’s been so good here the last three years.”

AFT Twins Red Mile Twins Main Event Podium FA
Jared Mees – Lexington Red Mile – American Flat Track 2019

Bauman extended his perfect run of podium results in 2019.

Briar Bauman

“I can’t even put this into words. We’re leading the championship, but at the same time, I’m probably more excited than Jared is right now. This is actually my first Mile podium, and I was able to reel him in and make a race of it for the fans who stuck out the weather. I’m really excited.”

Bryan Smith managed to score the final step on the podium just ahead of Stephen Vanderkuur while Henry Wiles completed the top five.

AFT Twins Red Mile Twins Main Event Podium FA
AFT Twins Main Event Podium 1) Jared Mees, 2) Briar Bauman, 3) Bryan Smith – Red Mile 2019

Bauman continues to dominate the AFT Twins points standings at 122, but Mees now trails by only 19 points, while Brandon Robinson retains the third position with a total of 95.

AFT Twins Main Event – The Red Mile 2019

  1. Jared Mees 25 Laps
  2. Briar Bauman +0.056
  3. Bryan Smith +1.143
  4. Stephen Vanderkuur +1.329
  5. Henry Wiles +4.086
  6. Davis Fisher +7.250
  7. Bronson Bauman +10.124
  8. Robert Pearson +10.233
  9. Jake Johnson +10.541
  10. Jeffrey Carver Jr. +13.031

AFT Twins Standings

  1. Briar Bauman 122
  2. Jared Mees 103
  3. Brandon Robinson 95
  4. Jarod Vanderkooi 70
  5. Henry Wiles 67
  6. Sammy Halbert 63
  7. Bronson Bauman 62
  8. Jeffrey Carver Jr. 60
  9. Robert Pearson 56
  10. Jake Johnson 53
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AFT Singles Report

Mikey Rush scored his first victory since joining the AFT Singles after a race long duel with Shayna Texter while Kevin Stollings earned the final podium position ahead of Dalton Gauthier, Ryan Wells, Tristen Avery and Aussie Max Whale.

AFT Twins Red Mile Michael Rush FA
Michael Rush celebrating the AFT Singles win – Red Mile 2019

The big news was championship leader Jesse Janisch who finished back in 11th which tightened up the points race considerably with Janisch still leading on 119 points, three ahead of Rush while Gautier sits on 111 points – Whale sits on 49 points and is in tenth position outright.

Mikey Rush

“I feel great, I was really, really hungry for this win; I was getting tired of second. My team worked their tails off for me. It’s a great group of people and we’re having a great time doing this. And when you’re having a great time, you’re going to win races.”

Shayna Texter

“I’m bummed. Honestly, I felt I had Mikey set up really good on that last lap, but I got a little spun up and Mikey got a killer drive. Congrats to him and his team.”

AFT Twins Red Mile AFT Singles Podium FA
AFT Singles Main Event Podium – Red Mile 2019

AFT Singles Main Event – The Red Mile 2019

  1. Mikey Rush 15 Laps
  2. Shayna Texter +0.102
  3. Kevin Stollings +2.318
  4. Dalton Gauthier +2.331
  5. Ryan Wells +2.349
  6. Tristan Avery +2.400
  7. Max Whale +3.367
  8. Tanner Dean +3.428
  9. Dan Bromley +3.473
  10. Morgen Mischler +3.612

AFT Singles Standings

  1. Jesse Janisch 119
  2. Mikey Rush 116
  3. Dalton Gauthier 111
  4. Dan Bromley 100
  5. Ryan Wells 78
  6. Shayna Texter 66
  7. Morgen Mischler 61
  8. Chad Cose 61
  9. Michael Inderbitzin
  10. Max Whale 49

Jarvis Wins Erzberg

In what has been described as one of the toughest races in years, veteran Graham Jarvis has won the Erzberg Rodeo for the fifth time this time ahead of Manuel Lettenbichler and Mario Roman while Alfredo Gomez and Wade Young rounded out the top five. Jarvis finished with a time of 2:26:45 and Lettenbichler was just 2:09 behind.

WESS Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble Rnd Start
2019 Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble
Graham Jarvis

“This feels amazing. I think this could be the most important Erzberg victory of my career. A lot of people were talking about my age, and at 44 I did have some doubts about my fitness for the full race. But I just kept my focus and kept pushing. I knew I would have work to do from the start, but the faster sections of the race, early on, never really suit me. Once I got to Carl’s Diner I started to make up time. It was different to when I walked it, and I was feeling it physically, but it went really well. I managed to lead going into Green Hell, but it was close there with Manni. I just had to keep pushing after that. It’s amazing to be a five-time Erzberg rodeo winner.”

WESS Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble Rnd Graham Jarvis
Graham Jarvis claims victory at the 2019 Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble
Manuel Lettenbichler

“That was a tough race, but I’m super happy to finish second. I got a great start and was third behind Garcia and Walker and followed those guys into the forest. I made a small mistake, but I arrived first at Carl’s Dinner. I knew Graham was close, so I just ride as hard as I could. It was really tough in there. When Graham passed me, I did all I could to stay with him and got right onto his rear wheel in Green Hell. If I’d have got ahead of him there, well, who knows what might have happened. From there to the finish I gave everything, but I couldn’t catch Graham. I had a great race and to finish second to someone like Graham is amazing. The 25th Erzberg has been incredible, I’m so pleased to be on the podium.”

WESS Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble Rnd Manuel Lettenbichler
Manuel Littenbichler – 2019 Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble
Mario Roman

“So many riders crashed in front of me on the first climb after the start, so I just tried to be calm and not make any crazy mistakes. After that I started to find my rhythm, passing riders one-by-one. To finish third is a great result, I’m very happy. In Carl’s Dinner I tried to push hard there and passed Billy, Alfredo, Jonny and Wade. I knew there was still a long way to go so I rode as smart as I could. It’s amazing to be on the podium.”

WESS Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble Rnd Mario Roman
Mario Roman – 2019 Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble

Taddy Blazusiak crashed early but bounced back to finish sixth ahead of Billy Bolt, Jonny Walker, Pol Tarres Roca and Travis Teasdale to round out the top ten.

Interestingly, there were three riders from Great Britain in the top ten which matched Spain while South African had two riders with Poland and Germany one each.

WESS Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble Rnd riders finished this years race
16 riders completed this year’s race – 2019 Erzbergrodeo Hare Scramble

Red Bull Erzberg Rodeo Results 2019

  1. Graham Jarvis, Husqvarna, Great Britain.
  2. Manuel Lettenbichler, KTM, Germany.
  3. Mario Roman, Sherco, Spain.
  4. Alfredo Gomez, Husqvarna, Spain.
  5. Wade Young, Sherco, South Africa.
  6. Taddy Blazusiak, KTM, Poland.
  7. Billy Bolt, Husqvarna, Great Britain.
  8. Jonny Walker, KTM, Great Britain.
  9. Pol Tarres Roca, Husqvarna, Spain.
  10. Travis Teasdale, KTM, South Africa.
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Zmarzlik Wins Slovenian FIM Speedway Grand Prix

Bartosz Zmarzlik has not only won the Slovenian FIM Speedway Grand Prix in Krsko last weekend he has also earned the lead in the championship, albeit tied on points with Patrick Dudack.

Zmarzlik dropped just two points on his way to a 13-point haul from his five heats before earning second in his semi final then dominating the final to earn 18 points.

Bartosz Zmarzlik

“I’m very happy, this place has been a little unlucky for me before. But I can leave here and head home very happy. Today was a different day for me. I’m starting with a different setup, and my starts are not bad. But this result is now history, and I’m looking forward to the next round in Prague. All the time I was looking at Martin Vaculik and thinking where he is likely to go. I wanted to make sure the bike was that little bit faster on the straight. Everything worked, and I’m very happy to pick up the win.”

SGP Bartosz Zmarzlik victory Slovenian SGP
Bartosz Zmarzlik

Zmarzlik’s win has promoted him to the top of the World Championship standings, while Slovenian FIM Speedway Grand Prix runner up Martin Vaculik moved up to fourth after registering 17 points in Krsko.

Martin Vaculik

“Congratulations to Bartosz Zmarzlik, he was unbelievably fast tonight. I’m happy with how many points I registered, and I’m happy with second place too. I’m now looking forward to the next round and making sure that I deliver my best. Keeping focused is important to me.”

Tai Woffinden scored nine points to move up to eighth in the standings with 15 points – level with British compatriot Robert Lambert while Aussie Jason Doyle once again struggled to earn 6 points after five rides.

The series now moves onto its third round in two weeks’ time as Prague’s Marketa Stadium hosts the ANLAS Czech Republic FIM Speedway Grand Prix.

FIM Slovenian Speedway Grand Prix Result

  1. Bartosz Zmarzlik 18
  2. Martin Vaculik 17
  3. Leon Madsen 13
  4. Patryk Dudek 12
  5. Emil Sayfutdinov 13
  6. Tai Woffinden 9
  7. Artem Laguta 9
  8. Robert Lambert 7
  9. Niels-Kristian Iversen 7
  10. Janusz Kolodziej 7
  11. Jason Doyle 6
  12. Matej Zagar 6
  13. Fredrik Lindgren 5
  14. Maciej Janowski 4
  15. Antonio Lindback 3
  16. Matic Ivacic 2
  17. Nick Skorja 0

SGP World Championship Standings

  1. Bartosz Zmarzlik 28
  2. Patryk Dudek 28
  3. Leon Madsen 26
  4. Martin Vaculik 24
  5. Niels-Kristian Iversen 21
  6. Fredrik Lindgren 20
  7. Emil Sayfutdinov 19
  8. Tai Woffinden 15
  9. Robert Lambert 15
  10. Artem Laguta 13
  11. Matej Zagar 13
  12. Antonio Lindback 13
  13. Jason Doyle 11
  14. Janusz Kolodziej 11
  15. Bartosz Smektala 10
  16. Maciej Janowski 4
  17. Max Fricke 3
  18. Matic Ivacic 2
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Duffy Wins Manjimup 15000

Local gun Regan Duffy has won the 2019 Manjimup 15000 which was held at the iconic circuit last weekend and in doing so has put his name among some of the legends of the sport.

Manjimup Kirk B
Kirk Gibbs – 2019 Manjimup 15000

Duffy spectacularly won the opening moto from Kyle Webster, Hayden Mellross, Luke Clout and Kirk Gibbs but then back it up with a second place behind Gibbs in moto two then a third in moto three behind Gibbs and Webster.

Manjimup Luke A
Luke Clout – 2019 Manjimup 15000

Duffy’s 1-2-3 moto score put him one point ahead of Gibbs’ 5-1-1 score while Webster earned the final podium spot with 2-6-2 moto finishes – American Kyle Cunningham was fourth ahead of Mellross.

Kirk Gibbs

“It was another good day here at Manjimup and I always love coming here as it’s a great place to race. The first race fifth was the down fall for me as over coming that point gap in a three race format is tough when the other riders were pretty consistent. Still, it was pleasing to be able to race at a good level so quickly after my shoulder injury and it still feels good at the end of the day on a demanding track. A huge thanks to the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team for making this happen as its never easy to race on the other side of the country and also to the Manjimup club and event organisers as this event is always a highlight for me and I love racing here in front of such an enthusiastic crowd.”

Manjimup Kirk A
Kirk Gibbs – 2019 Manjimup 15000

2019 Manjimup 15000 Results

  1. Regan Duffy
  2. Kirk Gibbs
  3. Kyle Webster
  4. Kyle Cunningham
  5. Hayden Mellross
  6. Luke Davis
  7. Charlie Creech
  8. Michael Mahon
  9. Josh Adams
  10. John Darroch
  11. Adam Enticknap
  12. Luke Clout
Manjimup podium
2019 Manjimup 15000 podium – 1) Duffy, 2) Gibbs, 3) Webster

RecoveR8 Backs 2019 Australian ISDE Team

RecoveR8 has earned the naming rights to the 2019 Australian ISDE Team and the new Australian owned sport supplement is set to make its mark on the Australian motorsport scene.

With RecoveR8 officially making its global launch at the Tatts Finke Desert Race Pit Party this Friday the 7th June, Motorcycling Australia (MA) is thrilled to confirm the all new RecoveR8 partnership.

ISDE Australian Team Preview
RecoveR8 announced as 2019 Australian ISDE team naming sponsor

The RecoveR8 Australian ISDE Team will jet off to Portimao, Portugal for the 42nd edition of the ISDE later this year, with Day One of racing commencing on 11th November. Over six days, our 10 Australian competitors will go head to head with riders from over 30 nations, traversing 1,500 kilometres in pursuit of yet another impressive result.

Kevin Williams – RecoveR8 General Manager

“We’ve seen the success of the Australian ISDE team over a number of years. When the opportunity came up to be the naming sponsor for the team, we jumped at it. Team Australia have to back it up six days in a row, and this product is designed for recovering and rejuvenating, so the match was certainly made in heaven.”

2019 Australian World Trophy team member, Daniel Milner, who is also a Recover8 international brand ambassador, says “RecoveR8 is a part of my everyday program. It’s helped eliminate 95% of my arm pump and I’m always feeling good, and able to back it up the second day.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Daniel Milner
Daniel Milner

MA’s Operations Director, Martin Port, is thrilled with the partnership with RecoveR8. “This new partnership between MA and RecoveR8 demonstrates our commitment to developing and supporting Australia’s Off-Road motorcycling community. The addition of RecoveR8 to the Australian ISDE family will help raise the profile of our talented riders, whilst also encouraging emerging competitors, male and female, to participate in events such as the Australian Off-Road Championship.”

RecoveR8’s website will be launched this Friday 7th June, during their official launch at the Tatts Finke Desert Race.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto Wrap | MX | Two-Strokes | Flat Track | SX | Dakar

Moto News Wrap for April 23, 2019 by Darren Smart

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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The LATEST News

  • Kulas and Barr rip Hawkstone MX Nationals
  • Wageman wins World Two-Stroke Championships
  • Mees rebounds to win Texas Half Mile
  • Aussies abroad – weekly update
  • Ferris to Raceline KTM
  • Clement Desalle injury update
  • Dean Wilson joins the injured list
  • Supercross returns to Wollongong
  • Australian Motorcycle Festival also set for Wollongong
  • Smektala Scores Warsaw Wildcard
  • Paulo Goncalves joins Hero Motorsports
  • Dakar Rally moves to Saudi Arabia
  • Treloar crowned 11-time Australian Speedway Sidecar Champion

Kulas and Barr Rip Hawkstone MX Nationals

Hawkstone Park hosted the second round of the British MX Nationals and it was Harri Kulas who earned maximum points in the MX1 class while Martin Barr put in an identical performance in the MX2 class.

MX Nationals Rnd Hawkstone imgFB
Hawkstone MX Nationals Podium – Image from MX Nationals UK FB page

Kulas won the opening MX1 moto from Gert Krestinov and Mel Pocock then Pocock and Lewis Tombs finished behind Kulas in the second moto so Kulas has opened up an 18-point lead over Pocock in the championship points.

MX1 – Hawkstone Round Top 10

  1. Harri Kulas
  2. Mel Pocock
  3. Lewis Tombs
  4. Gert Krestinov
  5. Nathan Watson
  6. Jake Shipton
  7. Robbie Dowson
  8. Ryan Houghton
  9. Nathan Dixon
  10. Stuart Edmonds

MX1 Points after Round 2

  1. Harri Kulas – 100
  2. Mel Pocock – 72
  3. Gert Krestinov – 70
  4. Ryan Houghton – 64
  5. Lewis Tombs – 59

Barr comfortably won the opening MX2 moto from Josh Gilbert and Ashton Dickinson then backed that up with another win over Gilbert and Todd Kellet so after two rounds Barr has a six-point lead over Gilbert while the rest of the field are almost two motos in points behind.

MX12– Hawkestone Round Top 10

  1. Martin Barr
  2. Josh Gilbert
  3. Todd Kellet
  4. Ashton Dickinson
  5. Glenn McCormick
  6. Brad Anderson
  7. Taylor Hammal
  8. Liam Knight
  9. Ben Franklin
  10. Lewis Hall

MX2 Points after Round 2

  1. Martin Barr – 97
  2. Josh Gilbert – 91
  3. Ben Franklin – 55
  4. Glenn McCormick – 52
  5. Carlton Husband – 49

Wageman Wins World Two-Stroke Championships

It is one of the most sought after ‘sub culture’ championships in the American motocross scene and this year is was second generation motocross rider and Glen Helen regular in Robbie Wageman who has taken out the premier Open Class at the annual World Two-Stroke Championships at Glen Helen Raceway.

Wageman overcame pre-race favourites and former champions in Mike Alessi, Zach Bell, Ryan Surrat, Carlen Gardner, Mike Brown and Tyler Bowers to take both moto wins

Open 2-Stroke Championship

  1. Robbie Wageman 1-1
  2. Carlen Gardner 3-1
  3. Coty Schock 4-3
  4. Mike Brown 5-5
  5. Deegan Vonlossberg 7-8
  6. Ryan Surratt 12-4
  7. Josh Mosiman 6-12
  8. Justin Hoeft 9-11
  9. Dominic Desimone 11-10
  10. Blayne Thompsom 16-6
  11. RJ Wageman 10-14
  12. Ricky Dietrich 20-7
  13. Dennis Stapleton 17-13
  14. Kai Aiello 15-15
  15. Carson Carr 14-16
  16. Tallon Lafountaine 22-9
  17. Willy Simons 13-18
  18. Keaton Ward 21-17
  19. Tyler Bowers 2-DNF
  20. Jakob Alvarez 23-DNF

125cc Pro Top 10

  1. Justin Hoeft 1-1
  2. Chis Plouffe 4-3
  3. Colton Aeck 6-2
  4. Alex Ray 7-4
  5. Tyler Nicholson 8-5
  6. Tim Weigand 9-6
  7. Matt Cerami 10-8
  8. Brian Begin 12-7
  9. Ryan Wilson 13-10
  10. Michael Blose 11-12
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Mees Rebounds to Win Texas Half Mile

Defending AFT Twins champion Jared Mees has bounced back from a difficult start to the 2019 season to deliver a vintage performance at the Texas Half-Mile at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, to score his first victory of the season.

American Flat Track Rnd Texas Jared Mees AXI
Jared Mees

AFT Twins Report

Right from the start Mees found himself embroiled in a one-on-one shootout with his fellow Indian rider and championship leader Briar Bauman and the two immediately broke free from the pack and traded the lead back and forth multiple times with a series of slick overtaking moves.

American Flat Track Rnd Texas Bauman Wiles AXI
#14 Briar Bauman leads the standings – #17 Henry Wiles is fourth

On lap 22 of 25 Mees pushed out just enough of a gap to breathe a bit easier over the race’s final circulations, claiming his 27th Half-Mile victory by 1.316-seconds over Bauman and Brandon Robinson to complete an all Indian podium while Sammy Halbert (HD) and Larry Pegram (Indian) rounded out the top five.

When asked if he expects Saturday’s win to reopen the floodgates Mees said:

“That would be the goal — that is the goal — and we’d love to do that, but this year is tougher. The guys are better, and they’ve got their machines figured out better. I’ve got to dig down deeper. Last year, I basically got a good start, went by Briar when he was on the Kawasaki, and took off. This time, I had to wear the boy out. He rode so good. He was better than me in Turns 3 and 4 early in the race. I saw what he was doing and moved down to his line, and that allowed me to maintain a little bit of a gap.”

American Flat Track Rnd Texas AFT Twins Podium ERV
AFT Twins Round 3 Podium

AFT Twins Points after 3 of 18 Rounds

  1. Briar Bauman – 62
  2. Brandon Robinson – 53
  3. Jared Mees – 47
  4. Henry Wiles – 46.
  5. Jarod Vanderkooi – 43
  6. Sammy Halbert – 34
  7. Larry Pegram – 33
  8. Robert Pearson – 32
  9. Jake Johnson – 29
  10. Jeffrey Carver Jr. – 29

AFT Singles Report

KTM’s Shayna Texter has the most wins in the history of the AFT Singles and she added to the tally in Texas with a hard fought ride to victory over Mikey Rush and 16-year-old phenom James Ott who was making his professional debut.

The battle at the front went right to the final lap where Ott made one final lunge to overtake Rush as Rush did the same to Texter on the race’s final corner but in the end, their positions remained unchanged with Texter winning by a scant 0.129 seconds over Rush with Ott another 0.125 seconds back in third.

Shayna Texter

“It’s awesome to get the first win behind us. To give Red Bull KTM its first win in American Flat Track is awesome. Hats off to my partners… To be able to win in Roof Systems’ backyard is incredible.”

Last year’s Texas Half-Mile winner, Morgen Mischler finished fourth, followed by championship leader Dalton Gauthier in fifth while Aussie Max Whale went down hard in the first corner but is fit and ready for next weekend’s Super TT in Arizona.

AFT Singles Points after 3 of 18 Rounds

  1. Dalton Gauthier – 59
  2. Mikey Rush – 48
  3. Jesse Janisch – 47
  4. Dan Bromley – 44
  5. Morgen Mischler – 40
  6. Shayna Texter – 35
  7. Oliver Brindley – 30
  8. Max Whale – 22
  9. Tristan Avery – 22
  10. Michael Inderbitzin – 21
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Weekly Up-Date on Our Aussies Abroad

Jed Beaton – Rockstar Husqvarna

Championship: World MX2 Motocross Championship
Current Standing: 13th after Round 4 of 17
Notes: Thanks to some niggling injuries Jed sat out the opening round but has scored solid points in the next three rounds while still nursing a few aches and pains – the four week break from rounds 4 to 5 will do him no harm. The next round will be the MXGP of Lombardi in Italy on the 12th of May.

Mitch Evans – 114 Honda

Championship: World MX2 Motocross Championship
Current Standing: 8th after Round 4 of 17
Notes: Mitch sensationally started the season with a podium finish but since then it has been a bit of a roller coaster with great speed let down by two mechanical DNFs. The next round will be the MXGP of Lombardi in Italy on the 12th of May.

R Broadford MX Nationals PQ Richie Evans
Mitch Evans

Tayla Jones – Rockstar/Husqvarna/Moose Racing/Shaw Wines

Championship: GNCC
Current Standing: 1st after Round 4 of 13
Notes: Tayla has only lost one round so far this year and is looking as good as ever. Next round will be the ‘X Factor Whitetails’ at Peru near Indianapolis on May 4 and 5

Caleb Grothues – SDM Corse Yamaha

Championship: EMX250
Current Standings: 16th after Round 2 of 8
Notes: The former Australian and World Junior Motocross Champion rode well at the opening round but was forced to sit out the second round due to injury but the West Aussie should be back for the next round in France on the 26th of May.

Hunter Lawrence – Geico Honda

Championship: AMA Motocross Championship
Current Standings: TBA
Notes: Hunter was looking sharp heading into the supercross championship before he crashed right before the opening round so he is now healed and by all accounts 100 per cent ready for the outdoors which kicks off at Hangtown on May 18.

Hunter Lawrence will be racing the SX East Coast Series
Hunter Lawrence

Jett Lawrence – Geico Honda

Championship: TBA
Current Standings: TBA
Notes: Jett joined the Geico Honda amateur program for 2019 and to date he has raced a handful of events like the Mini-Os etc – as soon as he races and there are results it will be right here.

Tahlia ‘TJ’ O’Hare – KTM DIGA Racing Team

Championship: MXW World Motocross Championship
Current Standings: 13th after Round 1 of 5
Notes: Tahlia’s initiation into the world motocross scene was at the toughest track on the circuit in Valkenswaard but she managed to get through with a solid 13th but look for TJ to move up the points standings at the second round in Portugal on May 19.

Chad Reed – JGR Suzuki

Championship: AMA Supercross
Current Standing: 11th after Round 15 of 17
Notes: Chad was part of a multi bike crash at Seattle when he was sitting seventh in the championship and if a few things go his way Chad will be on the line at the final round of the championship at Vegas in two weekend’s time.

AMA SX Rnd Reed JK SX Seattle
Chad Reed – Image by Hoppenworld

Wil Ruprecht – Johansson MPE Yamaha

Championship: EnduroGP – Junior Class
Current Standing: 2nd after Round 1 of 7
Notes: Wil proved his worth at the opening round in Germany with a solid weekend on the only Yamaha in the field. The next round will be at Valpaços in Portugal on May 3-4.

Meghan Rutledge – Bud Racing Kawasaki

Championship: MXW World Motocross Championship
Current Standings: 8th after Round 1 of 5
Notes: Meghan sat out the World Championships for four years and her first round was marred with some minor mistakes but there was no mistaking her speed so look for Meghan to have a much better round in Portugal on the 19th of May.

MXGP Rnd Netherlands Rutledge
Meghan Rutledge

Josh Strang – Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki

Championship: GNCC / AMA Enduro
Current Standing: 6th after Round 4 of 13
Notes: New team for Josh and he is gaining confidence at every round – Josh sat in second place for the early part of round 4 before dropping to fifth overall. Next round will be the ‘X Factor Whitetails’ at Peru near Indianapolis on May 4 and 5

Mackenzie Tricker – KTM/MEPMX/Fly Racing

Championship: GNCC
Current Standing: 3rd after Round 4 of 13
Notes: Mackenzie is not far off cracking a win at the GNCC level but the pace is red hot out front between Jones and Becca Sheets. Next round will be the ‘X Factor Whitetails’ at Peru near Indianapolis on May 4 and 5

Max Whale – Weirbach Racing Kawasaki

Championship: AFT Singles
Current Standings: 8th after Round 3 of 18
Notes: Max scored 5th at the opening round before struggling to an 11th at round two but it got worse at the 3rd round with a crash in the first corner that could have ended with a season ending injury but the plucky Queenslander has already stated on Facebook that he made a mistake but will be back next weekend’s Super TT in Arizona.

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Ferris to Raceline KTM

Dean Ferris has signed to ride for Raceline KTM and will potentially line-up for the Murray Bridge double-header in two weekend’s time – this is what Dean wrote on his Facebook page:

‘Stoked to announce my partnership with RaceLine Performance and Recover8. Massive thanks to everyone involved in getting me hooked up, all Raceline partners included. If you are wondering what Recover8 is, it’s a sport supplement about to hit the Market. TOP STUFF! Looking forward to ripping on this KTM 450.’

Dean Ferris has signed with Raceline KTM Dean Ferris Facebook photo
Dean Ferris to Raceline KTM

As far as Dean’s aspirations to race in America go it appears that the Raceline KTM/Recovery8 relationship may play a part in achieving that goal – more news to come.


Clement Desalle Injury Up-Date

Just a few weeks after celebrating his first podium of the season at the Dutch GP, Kawasaki’s Clément Desalle is recovering well at home from a minor surgery on his right knee after barely surviving a tough GP of Trentino.

During his charge to second place in the opening moto at Valkenswaard the Belgian felt pain in his leg and after several examinations between the GPs of Valkenswaard and Pietramurata, Clément knew that the Italian race would be difficult as he was unable to train during the week and had some pain in his knee.

Clément Desalle

“The examinations revealed that the meniscus was affected, and that some little pieces of bones were broken so we scheduled surgery for Monday after the race. This round was really difficult due to the pain and the crash in the second race; immediately after I retired I left with my father for Dr Claes’ clinic where I had surgery early last Monday (April 9). As soon as my knee had deflated after surgery I could start this week to work on a daily basis with my physiotherapist, mainly in the swimming pool at the moment but I have also started some bicycle exercises. We expect to do even more later this week, and for sure I’m pretty lucky that there is a break in the championship at the moment. The plan is to spend a few hours on the bike before Mantova, and so far everything has gone as we could expect.”

MXGP Rnd Netherlands Desalle GP SL
Clement Desalle

One week after surgery, Clément has already started the recuperation process and has a further three weeks to recover before Mantova on May 11th and 12th.

Currently sixth in the MXGP standing after his DNF in the second race in Trentino, Clément will be back racing in Italy, while teammate Julien Lieber will enter a French championship round during this spring break of the FIM Motocross World Championship.

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Dean Wilson joins the injured list

Like many before him, Dean Wilson’s 2019 AMA Supercross Champion has ended prematurely after crashing out of the main event at Denver last weekend – here is what Dean wrote on Instagram:

Dean Wilson

“Such a massive gut punch on Saturday. Just as I was gaining good momentum riding well, feeling good and chasing my first win things turned in the blink of an eye. Started off Denver topping free practice then went on to qualify P1 in qualifier 1. Qualifier 2 didn’t get the cleanest laps but ended with a 4th. On to the main event I was running around 7th on lap 7 moving forward and as I came around for the rhythm section I tripled in and something freak happened causing the bike to nose dive after I tripled in and pile driving me into the ground. The tough part of this is I have been trying so hard this year to be back where I need to be trying to get a job for next year. It’s tough just hoping to have a ride each year. 2nd part is people saying, ‘Wilson’s hurt again, big surprise there’ when it was something that wasn’t my fault. It’s a tough pill to swallow. I injured my shoulder and got a contusion on my kidneys. Got MRI and good news is I dodged a bullet on my shoulder and I am just going to give it a few weeks of rest and therapy and see where we are at. Huge disappointment to end my SX season like this. Thanks to my whole team for everything and everybody checking in on me. I really appreciate it. I will be back.”

Rockstar Husqvarna Dean Wilson
Dean Wilson

In just the 450-class alone Chad Reed, Justin Brayton, Malcolm Stewart, Justin Barcia, Aaron Plessinger, Vince Friese, Benny Bloss, AJ Catanzaro, Tyler Enticknap, Cole Martinez and Ronnie Stewart all missed rounds or were forced out of the series with crashes at the races while Justin Hill and Joey Savatgy are riding injured and hanging in there.


Supercross returns to Wollongong in 2019

Troy Bayliss Events have confirmed that the third round of the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship will be held at Wollongong’s WIN Stadium on Saturday the 9th of November giving fans the opportunity to see Australia’s best racers take on some international riders on a full-size track while racing the exciting Triple Crown Format in both SX1 and SX2 premiere classes.

Three-time Superbike World Champion and Event Organiser Troy Bayliss said the stadium layout will be unique with a section of the track heading up onto the iconic hill.

Troy Bayliss

“In 2018, Troy Bayliss Events took the big step to put Supercross back into a stadium in Australia with Geelong’s GMHBA Stadium round, now Troy Bayliss Events is thrilled to be taking the NSW event back to an outdoor stadium. WIN Stadium is the perfect size with the crowd so close to the action and the location is second to none. I am really excited about the track layout. This event will be like no other with the track winding up onto the iconic hill. We would like to thank Destination Wollongong, Wollongong City Council, WIN Stadium and Yamaha for the support to allow Supercross to take place In Wollongong and within WIN Stadium. The Illawarra is rich with motorcycle champions and fans and we can’t wait until the gates drop on November 9.”

Ducati Panigale VR Troy Bayliss
Troy Bayliss

Yamaha Motor Australia will be a major sponsor to Round 3 of the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship. Wollongong’s WIN Stadium is the perfect venue to showcase our race teams as they battle for supremacy in the VictorYZone.

In addition, this round will host another YZ65 Cup event – the grassroots race series designed to give young guns their first taste of the big time by racing in front of their Supercross heroes and up to 20,000 fans.

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Australian Motorcycle Festival Also set for Wollongong

Troy Bayliss Events have also confirmed that the Australian Motorcycle Festival will take place right next door to WIN Stadium at Lang Park on the same weekend as the Australian Supercross Championship over the weekend of November 9 and 10.

The Australian Motorcycle Festival is set for Woolongong

Formally known as the Sydney Motorcycle Show, Australia’s largest Motorcycle Show is also set to expand with massive trade displays featuring motorcycles, scooters, ATV’s, SxS’s, trikes and jet skis as well as related products and services while visitors to the event will have the opportunity to test a huge range of motorcycles and jet-skis.

Mark Sleigh, General Manager, Destination Wollongong said the city is excited to host the Australian Supercross Championship and Motorcycle Festival in November.

Mark Sleigh – Destination Wollongong

“Wollongong makes for the perfect road trip with stunning coastline taking in Sea Cliff Bridge as well as the winding escarpment which will put all your motorcycle skills to the test. The combination of the Championship and the Motorcycle Festival make for the perfect weekend away so we encourage everyone to stay a little longer and enjoy the attractions, natural assets and cafes and bars on offer in Wollongong.”

Tickets will go on sale Monday 29th April via Ticketmaster with tickets starting from $30.00. A full line up of support classes and live entertainment will be released in the coming weeks.


Smektala Scores Warsaw Wildcard

FIM Speedway Under-21 world champion Bartosz Smektala is set to done the famous #16 race jacket for his full FIM Speedway Grand Prix debut after earning a wildcard for the opening round of the FIM Speedway World Championship at PGE Narodowy on May 18.

The 20-year-old was crowned World Under-21 champion last season after seeing off a huge challenge from 2017 champion Maksym Drabik before winning a second straight PGE Ekstraliga title with Leszno.

Bartosz Smektala
Bartosz Smektala

Smektala rode in his first SGP heat as a track reserve at the 2017 Nice Torun SGP of Poland, before serving as a stand-in rider again in Warsaw last year where he raced in heat 14 that night, finishing second to Chris Holder and beating eventual World Championship bronze medallist Fredrik Lindgren and Craig Cook.

The Srem-born racer represents Leszno once again in this year’s PGE Ekstraliga as well as Swedish Elitserien club Vastervik.

He’s joined in Warsaw by track reserves Dominik Kubera and Rafal Karczmarz, who line up at No.17 and No.18 respectively. Kubera races alongside Smektala with Leszno, while Karczmarz rides for Gorzow.

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Paulo Goncalves Joins Hero Motorsports

The Indian off-road team Hero Motorsports have confirmed that former Dakar runner up and 2015 FIM Cross-Country Champion Paulo Gonçalves will be joining the team as they continue their quest for Dakar glory.

Paulo Goncalves Joins Hero Motorsports
Paulo Goncalves joins Hero Motorsports

Created in 2016, Hero Motorsport Rally Team has been gaining experience competing in some of the most demanding off-road races, especially the Dakar Rally where Hero Motorsports have finished inside the top-10 twice, and the best result came at the Merzouga Rally where they won.

Paulo Gonçalves has been racing for the factory Honda Dakar team but decided it was time to change and try new challenges.

Paulo Gonçalves

“From my side, I promise to give my everything to be ready and fit to be able to fight for the top positions for my team. Hero MotoSports has been doing a really good job in the last couple of seasons and this young team has shown, that it has the potential to win big. I would like to play my part in bringing these wins to the team. With lots of passion and emotions, my thanks again to the team and I am excited to begin.”

Paulo Goncalves
Paulo Goncalves
Wolfgang Fischer  – Head of Hero MotoSports Team Rally

“We are very motivated by the entry of Paulo Gonçalves into our young set-up. To attract one of the most decorated and respected top rally athletes is a big boost for our team and an endorsement that we are being looked upon as one of the top teams in rally sport. His experience of numerous race victories and Dakar participation into our line-up will enable us to achieve the next level of competitiveness. We extend Paulo a very warm welcome and wish him a successful stint with Hero MotoSports Team Rally.”

The new Hero Motorsports Rally Team is now completed with Paulo Gonçalves joins his Portuguese compatriot Joaquim Rodrigues as well as CS Santosh and Oriol Mena.

The Hero Motorsports Rally Team is getting ready for the next race, the Silkway Rally, that will happen in July, covering some spectacular trails in Russia, Mongolia and China.

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Dakar Rally Moves to Saudi Arabia

After 11 years of being based in South America, Dakar Rally organizers ASO have confirmed that the event will take place in Saudi Arabia beginning in 2020 and beyond.

The event was held solely in Peru earlier this year after the ASO was forced to hastily assemble a route in 2019 after the late withdrawal of Bolivia and Chile.

Dakar Rally Director – David Castera

“Looking back at my first memories of the Dakar and my first experiences as a competitor, I’ve always considered that this rally like no other carried a concept of discovery, a voyage into the unknown. By going to Saudi Arabia, it is, of course, that aspect that fascinates me. I’m convinced that such a feeling will be shared by all the riders, drivers and co-pilots. As the director of the event, it’s a massive challenge to be faced with a blank page with limitless possibilities. I’m already inspired and delighted to have to design a course in such a monumental geography, made for the most audacious itineraries. We are spoilt for choice. Sports, navigation, a will to surpass oneself: all these aspects will naturally be glorified on this territory made for rally-raids.”

More details regarding the event will be announced at a press conference on April 25 in Al-Qiddiya, near the Saudi capital of Riyadh.

As a point of interest, the Arabian desert is an area of 2,330,000 square kilometres, the fifth largest desert in the world, and the largest in Asia. At its centre is Ar-Rub’al-Khali (The Empty Quarter), one of the largest continuous bodies of sand in the world – GULP!

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Treloar crowned 11-time Australian Speedway Sidecar Champion

Treloar Pioneer Park Speedway, Queensland played host to a momentous occasion in Australian Speedway Sidecar history, with spectators and riders alike witnessing Darrin Treloar’s 11th claim to the Australian Senior Speedway Sidecar Championship and the retirement of Andrew Buchanan.

Treloar crowned time Australian Speedway Sidecar Champion
Australian Speedway Sidecar

Featuring in the Final was Monson/Summerhayes, Plaisted/Pitt, Harrison/McGrath and Treloar/Cox. With consecutive wins in the FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship and FIM 1000cc Speedway Sidecar World Cup under their belt, the dynamic duo that is Monson and Summerhayes were locked and loaded to blaze a trail into first place. After four exhilarating laps though, it was Treloar and Cox who stole the win, marking Treloar’s 11th Australian Speedway Sidecar title!

Darrin Treloar

“2019 marks my 11th Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship and honestly it hasn’t sunk in yet. Nothing beats my first Championship win back in 1993 up in Darwin of course, but this win is definitely something else. Coming into this weekend I try and keep fit with 3-4 days spent in the gym, plus heaps of work in the garage developing the bike. As the Championship marks the end of the season, we as competitors were well into the swing of things [keeping fit and staying motivated] with most of us having already competed in 10-15 events prior. Andrew is a great bloke who is a fantastic addition to the sport. This weekend was emotional of course as he announced he was hanging up the boots, but as always Andrew was extremely competitive and didn’t give an inch. So you had to fight hard to push ahead of him.”

Treloar crowned time Australian Speedway Sidecar Champion
2019 Australian Speedway Sidecar Championship Podium

Running in conjunction with the Seniors at Pioneer Park across the Easter long weekend was the 2019 Australian Junior Speedway Sidecar Championship.

Arriving at the Final, fans had the privilege of witnessing the clear emergence of superb Australian Speedway Sidecar talent, as all three squads became demons behind the handlebars. Coming out on top to claim the 2019 Australian Junior Speedway Sidecar Championship was the Fewster team, ahead of Curran/Kerss and Milner/Niesche in second and third place, respectively.

Australian Junior Speedway Sidecar Championship Podium
Australian Junior Speedway Sidecar Championship Podium

Western Australia (WA) locals, Jack and Adam Fewster have taken out their second Australian Junior Speedway Sidecar Championship title. As they land back on WA soil, Jack explained that “The weekend’s racing was really great! The racing was super tough which really pushed us to try as hard as we could to win. The practice day prior to racing really helped us keep cool and collected.”

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Jared Mees to lead 2019 AFT Indian Wrecking Crew

Indian announce 2019 American Flat Track team

2019 American Flat Track calendar announced


Indian had a stellar 2018 American Flat Track season (AFT), winning 17 of the 18 races in dominant form, and will return in 2019 with defending champion Jared Mees, alongside Briar Bauman and Bronson Bauman.

AFT Williams Grove Half Mile Jared Mees ERV
Jared Mees dominated the 2018 AFT season and returns in 2019 alongside Briar and Bronson Bauman

Brad Baker also joins the team as technical advisor and riding coach, while Mees will race with Crew Chief Kenny Tolbert, Mechanic Bubba Bently and Jimmy Wood on suspension.

Dick Tibbits will also be handling the team’s nutrition, fitness, and mental preparation, while team operations for Briar and Bronson will be conducted by Paul Langley and S&S, , with Dave Zanotti as crew chief. Michelle DiSalvo has signed on as Briar’s mechanic, while Bronson’s mechanic will be named at a later date

Indian AFT Team Jared Mees
Jared Mees

Indian Motorcycle Racing also welcomed the return of Dean Young as Wrecking Crew team manager.

Gary Gray – Vice President

“We’re excited to bring back Jared, and his championship pedigree, as we embark on the next chapter for Indian Motorcycle Racing. We welcome Briar and Bronson and are proud to have them represent our brand on and off the track. When it comes to racing, we’ve assembled some of the most talented professionals in the sport, and we’re looking forward to the upcoming season.”

Brad Baker - American Flat Track
Brad Baker returns in 2019 as the Indian team’s technical advisor

One of the key team members who will assume a leading role as a technical advisor and rider coach is Brad “The Bullet” Baker, with the team proud to continue its relationship with the former AFT Champion and Wrecking Crew rider.

Baker will closely support and mentor Briar and Bronson throughout the 2019 season by analysing their on-track performance, helping with race-day strategy and bike setup. Baker brings a championship-winning perspective and a wealth of knowledge and experience on the FTR750.

Indian AFT Team Bronson Bauman
Bronson Bauman

The 2019 AFT season will be challenging for the Indian Wrecking Crew due to a new rule designed to increase competition. This new rule will allow competitors using ‘production bikes’ to run 40mm throttle bodies while all FTR750 riders will be restricted to 38mm throttle bodies.

AFT Williams Grove Half Mile Bronson Bauman ERV
Bronson Bauman

Over the last two seasons aboard the Indian FTR750, Mees has recorded back-to-back AFT championships and has tallied 20 total wins. Through nine races aboard the FTR750 as a privateer, Briar secured six top-five finishes, including a second-place finish at the Peoria TT and a win at the Williams Grove Half-Mile.

AFT Minnesota Mile Rnd Briar Bauman ERV
Briar Bauman

Following Baker’s injury at X Games, Bronson filled in and ran his factory FTR750 in the final seven races. During that time, Bronson garnered his first top-five finish of the season and his first career Twins podium with a second-place finish at the Williams Grove Half-Mile.

Indian AFT Team Briar Bauman
Briar Bauman

The 2017 Wrecking Crew swept the season standings, finishing first, second and third. The team earned Indian Motorcycle Racing’s first Manufacturer’s Championship. In 2018, Wrecking Crew riders and FTR750 privateers swept the top nine positions in the final standings, securing another Manufacturer’s Championship for Indian Motorcycle Racing.


2019 American Flat Track Schedule

  • March 14: DAYTONA TT – Daytona Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL
  • March 23: Atlanta Short Track – Dixie Speedway, Woodstock, GA
  • April 20: Texas Half-Mile – Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth, TX
  • April 27: Wild Horse TT – Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, Chandler, AZ
  • May 11: Perris Half-Mile – Perris Auto Speedway, Perris, CA
  • May 18: Sacramento Mile – Cal Expo, Sacramento, CA
  • May 26: Springfield Mile I – Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
    • (AFT Singles Springfield TT same weekend)
  • June 1: Red Mile – Red Mile, Lexington, KY
  • June 15: Laconia Short Track – New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon
  • June 29: Lima Half-Mile – Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima, OH
  • July 13: New York Short Track – Weedsport Speedway, Weedsport, NY
  • August 4: Buffalo Chip TT – Buffalo Chip, Sturgis, SD
  • August 6: Black Hills Half-Mile – Black Hills Speedway, Rapid City, SD
  • August 17: Peoria TT – Peoria Motorcycle Club, Peoria, IL
  • September 1: Springfield Mile II – Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
    • (AFT Singles Springfield Short Track same weekend)
  • September 7: Williams Grove Half-Mile – Williams Grove Speedway, Mechanicsburg
  • September 21: Minnesota Mile – Canterbury Park, Shakopee, MN
  • September 28: Meadowlands Mile – Meadowlands R & E, East Rutherford, NJ

Source: MCNews.com.au