Day six saw the ninety-third edition of the FIM ISDE brought to a spectacular close with the traditional Motocross race. Staying close to the host city of Viña del Mar, all professional and amateur riders went head-to-head for the final day of racing on the sandy motocross track.
Daniel Sanders
With a comfortable lead in the classification, Australia entered day six with a virtual grasp on the FIM World Trophy. Putting in a calm, cool and safe ride, they knew winning the Motocross race was not necessary to secure the overall podium.
With Italy and the United States fastest on the final day, Australia played it safe and crossed the finish line third overall to claim the coveted prize of FIM World Trophy champions, backing up their earlier victory from Slovakia in 2015.’
ISDE 2018 – Team Australia
Adding to Australia’s success at the ninety-third edition of the FIM ISDE, Daniel Milner (KTM) secured victory in the overall individual category. Placing a safe eighth on day six, Milner did more than enough to seal the deal.
ISDE 2018
Daniel Milner
“This is a huge result for us. I had a sleepless night last night worrying about the final Motocross race, but it feels awesome that we won. We’ve been so strong as a team all week. Unfortunately, Lyndon Snodgrass dropped out on day two and we knew then how easily things could go wrong. But we never gave up fighting all week – the boys have ridden so, so good. To get this victory, along with the girls winning their class plus myself taking the individual win, is about as good as it gets for Australia and a result that is going to take a very long time to sink in.”
Daniel Milner
The battle for second and third outright in individual honours was a tight affair with Taylor Robert (USA – KTM) edging out Daniel Sanders (AUS – Husqvarna) by just eight seconds for the runner-up result following over four hours and thirty-one minutes of timed racing. The day six Motocross win went to Zachary Bell (USA – Husqvarna).
Taylor Robert
“It’s been an amazing week. I’m a little disappointed not to take the overall win but all-in-all I am happy with my riding. Days three and four were tough and I struggled a little there but I think everyone did. The tests were so technical, the dust was still a problem and the heat made everything a little worse. Day five went well, but I couldn’t catch Milner – hats off to him, he’s been riding really well out here in Chile. I’m really happy to take the win in my class and second for Team USA in the World Trophy competition is great too.”
Taylor Robert
Daniel Sanders
“It was a good week for me. I had a few small mistakes here and there during the week, but I am really happy with my speed. This was my first enduro race on the big FE 501 and I’m more than happy with the way it performed all week long. I really enjoyed racing the big bike in Chile. Conditions were tricky with the dust and the last lap of every day seemed like the most challenging one. With the heat coming through, your heart rate is also going up and you need to be strong physically to keep pushing.”
Daniel Milner and Daniel Sanders
Although knowing that beating Australia would be a tall ask, the United States still put in a determined performance in the hope their rivals would fall at the final hurdle. However, their dream of a second FIM ISDE victory was not to be and they would have to be content with the runner-up result for 2018.
Claiming the final day victory in Chile, Italy complete this year’s FIM World Trophy podium in third, while out-going champions France finish fourth, with Spain fifth. Portugal, the Czech Republic and Sweden were sixth, seventh and eighth respectively, while host nation Chile and Germany complete the top ten.
World Trophy Team Results ISDE 2018
Australia – 13:40:08:56 Josh Strang (Husqvarna) Daniel Milner (KTM) Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna) Lyndon Snodgrass (KTM)
USA – 13:47:18:54 Ryan Sipes (Husqvarna) Taylor Robert (KTM) Steward Baylor (KTM) Zach Bell (Husqvarna)
Italy – 13:50:57:85 Alex Salvini (Husqvarna) Davide Guarneri (Honda) Thomas Oldrati (Honda) Giacomo Redondi (Honda)
France – 13:57:31:53 Loïc Larrieu (Yamaha) Christophe Charlier (Beta) Christophe Nambotin (Gas Gas) Thomas Dubost (KTM)
Spain – 14:01:18:37 Victor Guerrero (Yamaha) Cristobal Guerrero (Yamaha) Jaume Betriu (KTM) Jonathan Barragan (Gas Gas)
Women’s World Trophy ISDE 2018
As the sun set on the 93rd edition of the FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE), the Australian Women’s World Trophy Team have won their sixth consecutive world title! Taking out a record breaking 2018 title, Australia lead the charge ahead of Team USA by just over nine minutes, followed afterward by Spain, France and Sweden in third, fourth and fifth place respectively.
Australian Women’s Team dominate ISDE 2018 – Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) – Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) – Tricker Mackenzie (KTM) – Image John Pearson
After five days of Enduro racing in blinding dust and stifling heat, day six presented the ladies with a short and fast Motocross circuit, where the value of remain mistake free is utterly critical to your individual and the team’s overall success.
Women Day Six – ISDE 2018 – Image John Pearson
With the Pacific Ocean set as the backdrop to the action-packed final day of the 2018 ISDE, Vina del Mar put on a spectacular show for all attending fans, and Australia pulled out all stops to gain further ground on Team USA.
Scoring another consecutive win overall for the day, Tayla Jones clocked in the fastest time for Team Australia of 10:23.76, leaving not a shadow of a doubt as to her rightful place as first overall in the class.
Tayla Jones
“It was a good six days! We had a strong team, we got some good times at the start of the week which really helped overall, and towards the end we stayed consistent which helped reduce the overall stress from the event. I’m really happy to get a sixth consecutive title, which is a new record! I’m also really honoured to get the overall championship! I have won once it before but there is no doubt that the second time is 10 times better. I would like to give a big thank you to the whole Australian team, the supporters, helpers and volunteers – we couldn’t have done it without them. I would also like to thank the whole Women’s World Trophy Team, Mackenzie and Jess, they’re great teammates. I would also like to thank all my supporters and sponsors back home, and everyone who made this possible!”
Tayla Jones dominated the women’s competition
Jessica Gardiner clocked in the second fastest time for the team in day six of 11:21.54, which has secured her place as fourth overall, sitting behind Livia Lancelot from Team France by just over six minutes. 2018
Jessica Gardiner
“It’s day six and finally we’ve gone through a really solid, hard week. The whole Team Australia helped us get through and we’re really happy to become six-time World Champions! It’s not every day that Aussies are six-time World Champions, it takes a lot of consistency and hard work. I couldn’t be happier have ridden with Mackenzie and Tayla, they’re great teammates and they’ve made it a lot of fun all week!”
Jessica Gardiner – Image John Pearson
Splitting the Aussies to take second overall was Brandy Richards from Team USA.
With a first time ISDE Women’s World Trophy title under her belt, Mackenzie Tricker was elated with our part in Team Australia’s dominance of ISDE 2018.
Mackenzie Tricker
“It was my first ISDE, and it started off pretty good in day one and two, but as the week went on, I felt like I went downhill. As we moved closer to day six, I just tried to salvage what I could and finish, but I felt pretty rough. I am absolutely stoked to have finished the event and have learnt a lot in the process. I was part of a great team and in the end, we were able to get the win!”
Australian Women’s Team dominate ISDE 2018 – Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) – Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) – Tricker Mackenzie (KTM) – Image John Pearson
Women’s World Trophy ISDE Results
Australia – 10:26:54:17 Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) Tricker Mackenzie (KTM)
Ryan Sipes (Husqvarna) 4:40:00.41… 9. Fraser Higlett (Husqvarna) 4:48:36.03
Enduro 2
Taylor Robert (KTM) 4:31:47.96
Steward Baylor (KTM) 4:37:01.50
Thomas Oldrati (Honda) 4:37:58.89
Josh Strang (Husqvarna) 4:38:18.86
Enduro 3
Daniel Milner (KTM) 4:29:53.48
Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna) 4:31:56.22
Giacomo Redondi (Honda) 4:37:17.18
Enduro Women
Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) 5:08:48.18
Brandy Richards (Husqvarna) 5:11:43.87
Livia Lancelot (Honda) 5:13:24.78
FIM Junior World Trophy
Ending a ten-year winless streak, Italy raced into the FIM record books as the 2018 FIM Junior World Trophy champions. Previously winning the category in Greece in 2008, Italy were overjoyed to return to the top step of the podium once more. In what’s been an outstanding week of racing for the Italian trio of Andrea Verona (TM), Matteo Cavallo (Beta) and Davide Soreca (TM) they also secured their fifth day win in this year’s race.
Andrea Verona
“It’s just an unbelievable feeling. We knew coming into Chile that we could fight for the win, but we never imagined the entire week would go as well as it has. Last year we were just fifteen seconds behind France at the finish, so to win this year is great. Every day we pushed hard and never settled for position and I think that showed by only losing one day. It’s been ten years since Italy last won this class so that’s special too.”
Finishing just under four minutes behind, the United States capped off a memorable week in Chile to take the runner-up result. In the battle for third, France fended off the challenge from host nation Chile to take third. Despite ending their week fourth, Chile proved that they are becoming an Enduro nation to be reckoned with and will no doubt push to secure a debut FIM ISDE podium in the years to come. Australia and Sweden were fifth and sixth respectively.
The penultimate day of racing at this year’s FIM ISDE offered competitors a new course and new challenges. Taking competitors south and into demanding forestry in a route known as the Peñuelas Lake and Wood, both riders and machines were put through another three-hundred kilometres of challenging Enduro terrain. Those remaining in the competition now only have the traditional day six final Motocross race to finish off this year’s gruelling race.
Offering no weakness to their rivals, Australia continued to stamp their authority on the ninety-third edition of the FIM ISDE. Marching ever-closer to their second FIM World Trophy title, they left no one doubting who was in control of the proceedings by topping the standings on day five. With a commanding lead, only the final Motocross race now stands in their way of securing the top step of the podium in Viña del Mar.
Daniel Milner remains untouchable with yet another consecutive day win and heading into the final test tomorrow Milner has an iron fist hold on first place overall, ahead of Taylor Robert from Team USA, by almost one-and-a-half minutes.
Clocking the second fastest time for Team Australia on day five was Daniel Sanders, the Victorian comfortably in third podium position overall.
Daniel Sanders
Rounding out Australia’s World Trophy Team was Joshua Strang who now sits in 10th position overall.
Joshua Strang
Daniel Milner – Team Australia
“There were two new tests today and I had to try and memorise the first test whilst moving through it, which ended up being a struggle! Although I essentially guessed a lot of it, I ended up being 10 seconds ahead of everyone else, which was fantastic! Thankfully we had already walked through the second test last week, so I was much more comfortable walking into it knowing full well which sections were tricky and the points where I could quicken the pace. After completing the tests, I found myself changing into cruise mode and lost a bit of time, but overall I still won the day by 28 seconds! The team is killing it! We’ve put some more time on Team USA, so all in all its been a good day for me and the team.”
Daniel Milner
Despite putting in another determined performance, the United States were unable to force the Australians into a mistake and had to settle for second. Barring any final-day drama, they look set to claim the runner-up result this year, holding a healthy four-minute buffer over Italy in third.
After a disappointing week in Chile, defending champions France will be happy to see this year’s event come to an end. Fourth in the FIM World Trophy classification, the hot, dry and dusty conditions have not favoured them, as Loic Larrieu (Yamaha) explains.
Loic Larrieu – Team France
“Unfortunately, it’s just not been our year,” admitted Larrieu. “The dusty, hard pack terrain and unique special tests have been difficult to adapt to and we’ve not shown our best. Personally, it’s been a hard race for me, especially having won the overall in 2017. I was carrying some injuries starting and through a combination of too many crashes, I haven’t been able to race like I wanted to.”
Spain are currently fifth, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Sweden round out the top eighth.
In the Enduro 1 category Italy’s Davide Guarneri (Honda) claimed the day win over Spain’s Victor Guerrero (Yamaha) and Andrea Verona (ITA – TM). However, despite suffering some trouble on day five, Verona still tops the Enduro 1 standings from Guarneri and Guerrero.
Aiming for a clean sweep of class day wins, Taylor Robert was again fastest in Enduro 2, winning four of the six special tests. Over five minutes clear of Steward Baylor (USA – KTM) in second, Robert can enjoy his final day of racing in Viña del Mar.
Taylor Robert
Arguably the standout performer in this year’s FIM ISDE, Daniel Milner added the Enduro 3 class win to his overall victory on day five. Two minutes clear of fellow Australian Sanders in second, the KTM rider will aim for a trouble-free Motocross race to sign off his week in style.
Juniors
In the FIM Junior World Trophy class, the United States finally got the better of rivals Italy, claiming the day five win. Feeling good on the new special tests, the United States pushed hard to reduce the gap to Italy ahead of day six. But with the Italians fighting back during the latter half of the day, they limited their loss and are three minutes and thirty-five seconds clear with the final Motocross remaining.
Putting the brakes on Chile’s challenge for the final step of the podium, France answered back having lost out to them during the last two days. Third fastest on the penultimate day, France keep Chile one-minute and thirty seconds behind them entering day six. Knowing all is still not lost, expect Chile to lay everything on the line in the hope of a possible debut FIM ISDE podium result, on home soil.
Andrew Wilksch
Australia continues to sit comfortably in fifth position, behind Chile in fourth place, who gained ground ahead of Australia by just under 12 minutes. Clocking the fastest time for Australia in day five was Fraser Higlett ahead of Andrew Wilksch and Thomas Mason who fought through the punishing conditions to make a staggering jump from yesterday’s 70th position to a new 52nd position overall!
Women
Easing back as they race towards a recording-breaking sixth consecutive FIM Women’s World Trophy victory, Australia still claimed victory on day five. Beating closet rivals the United States by less than one-minute, the trio of Tayla Jones (Husqvarna), Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) and Mackenzie Tricker (KTM) have a commanding nine-minute lead. Now eleven minutes behind the United States, Spain are third, with Sweden fourth.
Day two of the FIM Vintage Trophy saw Germany’s Jens Oestreich (SWM) top the ’76 class. Germany’s Jens Bossdorf (SWM) leads the ‘79 class over Rolf Nickolai (DEU -Kramer), while Sven Roth (DEU – Kramer) is the overall leader of the ’82 category. Germany’s Swen Schiller (Kram-It) is best of the Evo 86 riders.
The fourth day of competition at the ninety-third edition of the FIM ISDE was another punishing one for competitors. With over three-hundred kilometres of riding in hot and dusty conditions on the same course used for day three, many weary bodies were relieved to reach the end of day four in the knowledge that a new loop would await them for day five.
Once again setting the benchmark in this year’s FIM ISDE, Australia secured yet another comfortable day win. Fastest from the outset, they continued to confidently build their advantage throughout the long and physically demanding day of racing and will start the penultimate day with an almost six-minute advantage over the United States.
Daniel Milner
Although unable to answer the pace of their rivals, moral remains high within the United States squad and as Steward Baylor (USA – KTM) explains there is still a lot more racing to come.
“We’re not giving up just yet,” asserted Baylor. “Australia had us today, but we’re still giving it our all – there’s a long way to go. The conditions are unique and I feel Chile has certainly stamped its character on this year’s FIM ISDE. Every special test is different and requires a lot of focus and race craft to get right. It’s difficult out there, but we’re keeping it fun.”
Steward Baylor
Ending day three one-minute and thirty seconds behind the United States, Italy maintain third overall – albeit three minutes and twenty seconds down. However, with France less than three minutes adrift in fourth, they can not afford to relax.
“With how difficult the riding is, positions are still quite tight in the overall standings,” told Giacomo Redondi (ITA – Honda). “Yesterday Alex Salvini (Husqvarna) had some problems and lost a lot of time. Tomorrow it could be one of us, so we can’t afford to relax. France are always within striking distance – we don’t want to lose the podium at this point in the race.”
Spain complete the top five and enjoy an eight-minute lead over Portugal with two days remaining.
Steadfast at the top of the FIM Junior World Trophy classification, Italy are beginning to look like clear favourites for this year’s title. Claiming their fourth day win, Andrea Verona (TM) and Matteo Cavallo (Beta) impressed on Chilean soil, finishing the day in sixth and seventh overall respectively.
The United States sit second overall, less than four minutes and thirty seconds behind the Italians, with hope that day five will deliver some surprises. The battle for the final step of the podium continues to heat up as Chile beat France for the second day running. Third on day four, Chile have closed to within one-minute of their rivals, setting up an exciting end to the proceedings. Australia and Sweden round out the top six.
Jessica Gardiner
There was no change at the top of the FIM Women’s World Trophy category as defending champions Australia stretched their lead to eight minutes over the United States. Spain continue to hold onto third, while France and Sweden are fixed in fourth and fifth respectively.
Tayla Jones
In the individual category, Australia’s Daniel Milner (KTM) was once again impressively fast in the dusty and rocky conditions, securing a comfortable forty-second margin of victory over teammate Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna), with Taylor Robert (USA – KTM) six seconds back in third. Milner’s day four victory pulls him almost one-minute clear of Robert in the overall standings, with Sanders third.
Daniel Milner
Claiming his second Enduro 1 class day win, Junior rider Verona extends his overall lead over Davide Guarneri (ITA – Honda), with Spain’s Victor Guerrero (Yamaha) overtaking Ryan Sipes (USA – Husqvarna) for third.
Collecting his fourth Enduro 2 victory, Robert remains the rider to beat and comfortably leads with two days remaining. A strong ride from Baylor builds him a thirty-six second cushion over France’s Loic Larrieu (Yamaha) in third.
Keeping things under control in the Enduro 3 class, Milner’s day four win sees him now lead Sanders by one-minute and seventeen seconds. Finding his feet in the Enduro 3 category, Redondi moves past home favourite Ruy Barbosa (CHL – Husqvarna) to take third.
Day four of the FIM ISDE also marked the start the FIM Vintage Trophy. Battling against both the Chilean heat, a rough and demanding course and two special tests, Germany’s Swen Schiller (Kram-It) recorded the overall fastest time of the ten class finishers, also topping the Evo 86 class. Jens Oestreich (GER – SWM) finished fastest in the ’76 class, Germany’s Jens Bossdorf (SWM) topped the ’79 class with Chilean rider Rodrigo Jara (Honda) winning the ’82 category.
With four tough days of racing now complete, competitors in the ninety-third FIM ISDE are beginning to see the home stretch come into sight with just two days remaining. The penultimate day marks the final day of traditional timecard Enduro racing, before concluding with the Motocross race on Saturday 17 November in Viña del Mar.
Marking the midway point in this year’s FIM ISDE in Chile, the third day of racing saw competitors face a new course and a fresh set of special tests. Moving inland to the Limache region, a one-hundred and fifty kilometre loop of rocky terrain awaited all riders. With the lap ridden twice, it would prove yet another long and demanding day in the saddle for all, as high temperatures and increasing dust took their toll on riders.
ISDE 2018
There was no change at the head of the FIM World Trophy team competition with Australia once again leading the way. Proving extremely comfortable in the loose and rocky terrain, they were comfortably fastest on day three.
Josh Strang
Claiming his second consecutive overall day win, team captain Daniel Milner (KTM) is pleased with how things are going.
ISDE 2018 – Team Australia
Daniel Milner
“It’s been another good day for Australia,” told Milner. “To reach the midway point in the race with more than a three-minute lead is a big confidence booster – despite losing Lyndon Snodgrass (KTM) as a retirement yesterday. I’m enjoying it out there, myself and teammate Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna) are pushing the pace and along with Taylor Robert (USA – KTM) it’s proving a close battle for the individual result.”
Daniel Milner
Although losing more ground to Australia, the United States hold station in second, while Italy remain third.
Defending champions France, in fourth place, picked up their pace on day three to move to within one-minute and twenty seconds of Italy. Highlighted by Christophe Nambotin (FRA – Gas Gas) in fifth, three of the nation’s riders ended day three inside the top twelve.
With Spain, Portugal and the Czech Republic fifth, sixth and seventh respectively, it was a difficult day for Chile who slipped to eighth after losing team captain Benjamin Herrera (Beta).
ISDE 2018 – Charlier
The FIM Junior World Trophy class was once again the Italian show as the trio of Andrea Verona (TM), Matteo Cavallo (Beta) and Davide Soreca (TM) secured their third consecutive day win. Italy now lead by one-minute and twenty-seven seconds over the United States.
In the battle for the final step of the podium, France are third, but face a new challenge from host nation Chile. Finishing third fastest on day three, Chile jump to fourth overall and are now within striking distance of the French.
“I think we are beginning to find our pace now,” said Chile’s Ruy Barbosa (Husqvarna). “We’ve pushed really hard today and it showed in the results. With lots of support from our home fans we will try to close the gap to France tomorrow.”
Claiming their third day win in Chile, Australia continue their relentless pace in this year’s FIM Women’s World Trophy. Comfortably faster than their rivals, they enter the second half of the race looking favourite to collect their sixth consecutive victory.
Unable to answer the pace of the leaders, the United States are six minutes behind the Australians, but enjoy a six-minute cushion over Spain in third. France are fourth, with Sweden completing the top five.
Day four will see competitors complete the same course and special tests as day three, along with the start of competition for the Vintage Trophy.
The second day of competition in the 2018 FIM ISDE saw competitors repeat the same dusty course as day one. However, with the dry conditions deteriorating it was a physically tough and demanding day for all competitors.
ISDE 2018
At the head of the field, the leading riders were able to avoid the majority of the heavy dust kicked up by the four-hundred and forty-six competitors from the twenty-five competing nations. Those competing towards the rear of the entry certainly had a tough time during day two of the ninety-third edition of the FIM ISDE.
Daniel Sanders
Finishing a close second to the United States on day one, Australia upped their pace considerably on day two. Fastest in the majority of the tests, they turned their four-second deficit into a ninety-one second advantage by the end of the day’s sixth and final special test.
However, there was little reason to celebrate as the team also saw Lyndon Snodgrass (KTM) drop out of the competition. With all remaining rider’s scores counting, Australia can no longer afford another mistake as overall day two winner Daniel Milner (KTM) explains.
Daniel Milner
“It’s been a great day for Australia by taking the overall lead in the FIM ISDE, but we weren’t without trouble either as Lyndon dropped out. With all our scores now to count, we can’t afford another mistake for the next four days.”
Daniel Milner
“Personally, today was my day and I’m happy to take the win,” continued Milner. “I was one of the first riders to start, so that made the tests a little bit easier with no dust and or slower guys to overtake. Tomorrow the plan is to remain smooth and consistent, but most importantly trouble free.”
Daniel Milner
Unable to find an answer to Australia’s relentless pace, the United States were forced to play second fiddle to their close rivals on day two. With day three offering a new course and a fresh set of special tests, they aim to regroup and continue pushing hard.
Josh Strang
Putting in a consistently strong day, Italy moved up one position in the overall standings to third, but are almost two minutes behind the Unites States, with defending champions France yet to find their form in fourth. It was not a good day for Spain as they slipped from third to fifth, while host nation Chile maintain their position of sixth in the overall classification.
In the FIM Junior World Trophy class there was no stopping Italy as they powered their way to another day win. Setting the pace in this year’s race, both Andrea Verona (TM) and Matteo Cavallo (Beta) placed inside the top ten overall, with Verona an impressive fifth.
“Fifth today is a really big result for me,” confirmed Verona. “I pushed hard from the first special test and was able to improve my speed over the previous day. Now, with the team we’ve also increased our lead in the standings and we look forward to what day three will bring.”
The United States hold onto the runner-up result, but are almost three minutes behind the Italians. Nearly a further three minutes back, France end day two in third, while Australia and Chile complete the top five.
Feeling at home in the dry and dusty conditions, Australia were able to build on their lead in the FIM Women’s World Trophy competition. The trio of Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) – fastest overall – Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) and Mackenzie Tricker (KTM) now enjoy a three-minute and fourteen-second advantage over the United States as they approach the midway point in this year’s race. Spain maintain third overall but slip six minutes behind the United States, while France and Sweden round out the top five.
Tayla Jones
In the individual classification, Taylor Robert (KTM) from the USA maintains his overall lead in the FIM ISDE by three seconds from Milner. Claiming his second consecutive Enduro 2 day win, Taylor is one-minute and fifty-two seconds ahead of Italy’s Alex Salvini (Husqvarna), with Grant Baylor (USA-KTM) thirteen seconds behind Salvini in third.
With his winning ride on day two, Milner also moves to the top of the Enduro 3 category. He holds a seventeen-second advantage over teammate Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna), while Cavallo is third.
Daniel Sanders
The Enduro 1 class is hotly contested with Italy’s Davide Guarneri (Honda) taking a seven-tenth of a second win over compatriot Verona. Guarneri now leads the category by fourteen seconds from American Ryan Sipes (Husqvarna), with Verona third.
Day three of the FIM ISDE will take competitors inland on a new course offering a mixture of hard packed and rocky, mountainous terrain. The proposed two laps and six special tests will total three-hundred kilometres of riding.
The 2018 edition of the FIM International Six Day Enduro has gotten underway in Viña del Mar, with an early start to the day, as the four-hundred and forty-six competitors from twenty-five nations tentatively rolled off the start line to begin six days of world-class Enduro racing.
2018 ISDE Day 1 – Chile – Image by G2F Media
The opening day’s course took riders north of the city, offering breathtaking views along the Pacific Ocean. On a route known as the Pacific Challenge, competitors completed two demanding laps and a total of six sandy and technical special tests, traveling a total of 284km.
2018 ISDE Day 1 – Chile – Image by Dario Agrati
Day one saw Team Australia remain a strong and dominant force in all classes, with the Aussie World Trophy Team finishing the day in second overall, behind the USA. In the Women’s class, the trio of Gardiner, Jones and Tricker taking a clear lead. The Australian Juniors also finished Day 1 in fifth position overall.
World Trophy Team
At the conclusion of day one the Australian World Trophy Team has finished an undeniable high, sitting in second position overall in the World Trophy Class underneath Team USA who have taken out top position, with less than five seconds separating the two teams.
Joshua Strang – 2018 ISDE Day 1 – Chile – Image by John Pearson Media
Day one also saw Team Australia score three positions in the top 15 with Daniel Sanders finishing the day with a fastest time of 54:42.00, winning the first test of the event which earned him second place overall. Sanders sits just under 22 seconds behind the current leader, Robert Taylor from Team USA.
Teammate Daniel Milner took out the third and last podium position, with a fastest time of 54:49.82 and winning the second and fourth test of the day. Milner sits just over seven seconds behind Sanders and will no doubt use tomorrow to put the heat on Team USA and close in on the current time different.
Team Australia at 2018 ISDE Day 1 in Chile – Image by John Pearson Media
Rounding the top 15 was Joshua Strang, who locked in a fastest time of 55:42.62. Lyndon Snodgrass came up against challenges throughout day one, earning 26th position overall with a fastest time of 56:03.17.
Daniel Sanders
“I started off day one really well, getting the first overall test win. Personally, I did some good test times but struggled in the dust especially with it being the first day and there being a lot of traffic. Milner and I fought through that though, and the two of us rode really well individually as well, leading the team to second position. We have a clean run tomorrow so hopefully we can make up some time on the Americans!”
Unofficial Day 1 – World Trophy Classification
Team USA – 2:45:10.30
Team Australia – 2:45:14.44
Team Spain – 2:46:17.90
Team Italy – 2:46:42.93
Team France – 2:47:07.06
Women’s World Trophy Team
Making a resounding mark on the competition was the Australian Women’s World Trophy Team, who dominated throughout the day to maintain a stronghold on first place overall.
Australia is followed by Team USA, but thanks to the three riders Australia has produced a substantial 90 second lead. Fastest time for the team and the class was Tayla Jones, who clocked in the fastest time of 1:01:11.25 winning five out of the six tests.
Mackenzie Tricker – 2018 ISDE Day 1 – Chile – Image by John Pearson Media
Coming in hot on Jones’ heels was debutant Mackenzie Tricker, who scored third place overall, clocking in a fastest time of 1:02:17.17 and coming in second in four of the six tests. Jessica Gardiner scored 8th position overall in the class, with a fastest time of 1:04:08.46.
Tayla Jones
“I had a pretty good day overall! The tracks are very dry and dusty and they dug out really quick – a lot quicker than I thought – so it made it really challenging. Today I crashed and lost a fair bit of time but all in all it went pretty well! Overall I’m pretty happy to hold the lead and hopefully we can stay upright tomorrow!”
Unofficial Day 1 – Women’s World Trophy Classification
Team Australia – 2:03:28.42
Team USA – 2:04:39.38
Team Spain – 2:06:54.93
Team France – 2:08:45.50
Team Sweden – 2:14:57.15
Junior World Trophy Team
The Australian Junior World Trophy Team proved that they can hold their own, with all three team members scoring a place in the top 50 which has scored Australia fifth place.
Australia now sits roughly three seconds off fourth position, which is currently held by the hosting nation, Chile. Australia’s juniors will use day two to diminish the distance with Chile, and work to climb the leader board currently held by Italy, France and USA respectively.
Fraser Higlett – 2018 ISDE Day 1 – Chile – Image by John Pearson Media
Fraser Higlett leads the charge for the Juniors, clocking a fastest time of 56:26.19 and scoring 41st position overall. Tom Mason earnt 43rd position overall with a fastest time of 57:11.96, and Andrew Wilksch rounding out the team’s efforts with a fastest time of 57:07.31 and landing 47th position.
Fraser Higlett
“It was a pretty good day today but the tracks were super dusty. It was tough starting back behind other riders but I made up some positions and the team came home strong by the end of the day. We’re all really consistent, so we’re hoping to maintain it over the remaining five days. Tomorrow should be easier – with hopefully less dust – and I shouldn’t have to pass as many riders to climb the leader board!”
Unofficial Day 1 – Junior World Trophy Classification
KTM’s Nathan Watson wins season finale from Coldenhoof & Martens
Billy Bolt has been crowned 2018’s Ultimate Enduro Champion at the eighth and final round of the World Enduro Super Series – the Red Bull Knock Out held in The Netherlands.
Billy Bolt – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider claimed the top step of the championship podium ahead of Germany’s Manuel Lettenbichler and round winner Nathan Watson.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Bolt is well-known for his Hard Enduro ability, while runner-up Lettenbichler was the championship’s best placed privateer, with motocross turned enduro racer Nathan Watson claiming the final position and representing the championship’s diversity and enduro spirit.
Nathan Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Billy Bolt – 2018 Champion
“I can’t believe it, this is going to take some time to sink in. To be the first World Enduro Super Series champion is awesome. The race was crazy, I had two huge crashes and hit the ground hard, but apart from that I enjoyed it. It was tough making your way past all the other competitors – there were bikes abandoned everywhere. The track changes every lap – there’s hardly a start straight now the tide has come in so much. It was frustrating at times when you got stuck or lost time due to someone else’s mistake, but that’s the nature of the race and generally the whole event went well for me. It’s been such a long season, with so many different races – to finish at the top when it’s all come to a close – it feels unreal. It’s been a real rollercoaster season for me with some challenges and then my knee surgery, to stand here now having won WESS is brilliant. It’s been a real team effort. The Rockstar Husky guys have really done everything and more to allow me to win this championship. It’s been a real team effort.”
Billy Bolt claims the 2018 WESS title in the Netherlands – Image by Future7Media
The sixth edition of the Dutch Beach Race saw Watson stormed his way to a debut win on the Scheveningen shoreline, taking victory over home favourite Glenn Coldenhoff and Belgium’s Yentel Martens.
After seven rounds of Hard Enduro, Classic Enduro and Cross-Country racing, the first season of the multi-discipline Enduro series drew to a spectacular close at the infamous Red Bull Knock Out Beach Race. 1000 competitors took to the start line for the one-hour morning qualifier – won by Watson and 750 riders earned their place in the two-hour Final.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Eager to impress in front of his home crowd, Coldenhoff set the early race pace, with Watson, Martens, Camille Chapeliere and Britain’s Todd Kellet in tow. During the opening half of the race, Coldenhoff set a blisteringly fast pace and appeared to have all under control.
However, the opening of the extreme X-Loop for the final hour dramatically changed the flow of the race and Watson – putting his Enduro skills to good use – fought his way into the lead. Continuing his fast pace during the final laps, and with the track at its roughest, Watson stormed ahead to claim a 90-second margin of victory over Coldenhoff, with Martens coming through for third.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Nathan Watson – 3rd overall & Red Bull Knock Out winner
“I am so happy, I have been looking forward to this race all year. To take the win feels amazing, especially after finishing runner-up the last two times. I put myself under a lot of pressure coming here, everyone had me down as the favourite but anything can happen, especially in beach racing. I was ill last week and I didn’t expect to be so strong, but the whole race went perfectly. Glenn got away really fast at the beginning but I knew if I held on, I should come strong at the end. I can’t thank the team enough, it’s been a seriously tough year for me – I’ve experienced a lot of new events and learned a lot. To jump up to take third overall in the WESS championship is incredible.”
Nathan Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Ydwer van der Heide
Glenn Coldenhoff – 2nd at Red Bull Knock Out
“That was a tough race, I am happy with second but it’s disappointing not to take the win. I started off really well and took the joker lane twice and was still leading at the halfway point. I was close to running out of fuel at the pitstop and lost a bit of time there but still felt good and had about a minute lead. When they opened up the X-Loop it was ok at first but on the second time through there were a lot of riders already stuck. I wanted to make sure I completed it properly but in the end the organisers were directing everyone up the side. I put in a lot of training for the event after the Motocross of Nations and I’m glad to take the runner-up, I just wish it was one step further up the podium.”
Glenn Coldenhoff – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
In the battle at the head of the World Enduro Super Series, all eyes were on title contenders Bolt and Lettenbichler, who were inside the top 20 of the 750 competitors. Positioning themselves out of trouble early on, the duo were closely matched with Bolt holding an important advantage.
However, two crashes by Bolt put him on the back foot during the closing stages of the race. Needing a lap to regroup he began to make headway, using the technical X-Loop to his advantage. Pushing clear of Lettenbichler and working his way up to 12th, the Husqvarna rider crossed the finish line as the newly-crowned Ultimate Enduro Champion.
Billy Bolt – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Despite giving his best effort, Lettenbichler was unable to get the better of Bolt in the deep Dutch sand, finishing a creditable 15th to take the runner-up result in the 2018 World Enduro Super Series. In the fight for the final step of the championship podium, Watson’s round eight victory saw him leap past teammate Josep Garcia who placed 16th – to secure third overall.
Manuel Lettenbichler – 2018 runner-up
“It’s been an amazing year and to end it as the championship runner-up is beyond my pre-season expectations. I knew Billy was good in the sand, so my plan here was to try and keep him behind me and do my best to claim as many points as possible. I wasn’t sure how things would be after hurting my thumb at the Gotland Grand National. But the adrenalin has kept the pain away today and I’m really happy with my ride. Overall, I have had some strong podiums and I really feel like I have come into my form and that I’m riding at the top of my game. To end WESS as the series’ runner-up is amazing, but now I have to come back even stronger next year and take Billy’s title. Congratulations to him, it’s been a great year battling with him.”
Manuel Lettenbichler – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
In becoming the Ultimate Enduro Champion of 2018, Billy Bolt claimed the World Enduro Super Series prize of a KTM X-Bow.
Billy Bolt won a KTM X-Bow – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Red Bull Knock Out – WESS Round 8 Results
Nathan Watson (KTM – GBR) 24 laps, 2:01:43.785
Glenn Coldenhoff (KTM – NED) 2:03:14.001
Yentel Martens (Husqvarna – BEL) 2:07:35.255
Camille Chapeliere (KTM – FRA) 23 laps 2:03:48.396
Todd Kellet (Husqvarna – GBR) 2:05:51.526
Jamie McCanney (Yamaha – GBR) 2:06:02.401
Lars van Berkel (KTM – NED) 2:06:57.553
Axel van de Sande (Yamaha – BEL) 2:07:19.272
Jeffrey DeWulf (Yamaha – BEL) 2:07:57.178
Sven van der Mierden (Husqvarna – NED) 22 laps 2:04:34.561
WESS Championship Podium – Lettenbichler, Bolt, Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
World Enduro Super Series Final Championship Standings
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What Went Down Last Weekend?
World Enduro Super Series (WESS) – Gotland Grand National – Sweden
GNCC – Ironman, Indianapolis
AMA EnduroCross Series – Everett, WA
French Beach Racing Championship – Loon-Plage
FIM Oceania Trial Championship – Christchurch, NZ
Dean Wilson Confirmed for AUS-X Open
Pauls Jonass Signs with Husqvarna
Seewer Second at Sugo
Young Returns for Wildwood Rock
S-X Open Auckland to host KTM Junior Supercross Challenge
What Racing is Left for 2018?
World Enduro Super Series (WESS) – Gotland Grand National – Sweden
The wild and muddy Gotland Grand National saw Swedish riders fill the podium at round seven of the World Enduro Super Series but it was Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) who ultimately claimed victory while Billy Bolt recovered well to finish 13th overall and maintain his overall lead in the WESS championship standings with one round remaining.
2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
With torrential rain on the Friday night coupled with over 3000 competitors the conditions turning incredibly muddy for the 35th edition of the iconic event so it was the local riders who faired best in the deteriorating conditions with Elowson securing his maiden GGN win over Robert Kvarnstrom and Ken Bengtson while Taddy Blazusiak, who was by far the best of the WESS stars, worked hard in the final stages of the race to claim fourth ahead of another local in Sebastian Martensson.
For WESS the title contenders, Spain’s Josep Garcia crossed the finish line in 12th to slightly close the gap to series leader Bolt, who finished 13th. Although holding 25th with one lap remaining, a crash in the closing stages of the race pushed Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – Germany) back to 43rd overall.
2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
With just the final round of the championship remaining, Bolt extends his advantage over Lettenbichler to 275 points. Garcia, in third, closes to within 445 points of the second placed Lettenbichler. Blazusiak’s fourth place result at GGN sees him move up to fourth overall, but more importantly he now sits just 25 points behind Garcia as the race to become this year’s ULTIMATE ENDURO CHAMPION soon moves to The Netherlands for Red Bull Knock Out.
The World Enduro Super Series concludes with the eighth and final round with the iconic Red Bull Knockout on November the 10th.
Albin Elowson
“I’m so happy to take the win here in Gotland. I knew I had the speed before the race, but you never know what can happen around here, especially in these conditions. I got a decent start and tried to make some passes in the early chaos. I had a good fight with Robert Kvarnstrom but after the first pit stop I was able to open up a small gap and managed to maintain that lead for the whole race. Overall, I felt good and was happy with my pace. I went through a lot of goggles – that’s one of the main things at this race, you have to keep your eyes clear in order to ride properly. Also, a big thanks to the team. They were great and both pit stops were excellent. Finally, it’s good to be able to show what I am capable of – especially with the GGN now part of WESS. I know I have the speed, I just have to build my confidence a little and hopefully I can get some more good results in the future.”
Albin Olowson – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Robert Kvarnstrom
“That was a really tough race. It was so wet and so muddy. I think it was one of the toughest editions of GGN that we’ve ever done. I got a good start and was running with Albin Elowson early on, but a few mistakes and some issues with the traffic cost me time and he gapped me. After that I just rode my own race. I found some more speed towards the end, but it wasn’t quite enough to pressure Albin for the lead. Congratulations to him for the win – I’ll have to come back next year and fight for the victory again.”
Robert Kvarnstrom – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Taddy Blazusiak
“To finish fourth for my first time riding this race and in these conditions is a result I’m pleased with. GGN is a unique race and one the Swedish riders clearly excel at. With the weather turning bad, it was always going to be difficult to match their experience in this type of mud. But I feel we did a good job – we worked well as a team to adapt to the changes and challenges we faced, as they happened. In total I only had two small crashes, but I did struggle with keeping clear vision especially in traffic and that cost me some time. But like I said, fourth is a good day and I’m happy with that.”
2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Billy Bolt
“I had a tough first lap. Another rider crashed in front of me and I managed to stop, but then someone else crashed into me from behind and we were all stuck in a mud puddle. I got going again but got mixed up in another crash and went down again – that’s when I broke the throttle tube. I made the mistake of stopping to try and fix it and lost so many places as a result. After the first pit stop I was able to push on a bit more and regain some places. I’m a little bit disappointed not to have finished higher – I think without the problems I could have – but importantly I have stretched my lead at the top of the standings as we now look towards the final round in Holland.”
Billy Bolt – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Graham Jarvis
“That was really tough, it was hard to learn the terrain and hard to get into it early on. It was difficult to know how much grip there was because there were a few slippery places but in other places it wasn’t too bad, just very muddy. It took a while to get a bit more confident but when I did I was faster on the last few laps. It was hard to get warmed up and get going early on, but that was the same for everybody.”
Alfredo Gomez
“It was so cold out there today – I don’t think any of us expected it to be so tough. The first half of the race went well, but after that my brake pads wore out and everything got a lot more challenging. I think my riding was good but as the race went on I started to get very cold and it was tricky to keep to a good pace.”
Alfredo Gomez – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Results – Gotland Grand National, WESS Round 7
Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) 6 laps, 2:59:02;
Robert Kvarnstrom (Yamaha) 3:01:52;
Ken Bengston (Husqvarna) 3:03:38;
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM) 3:06:59;
Sebastian Martensson (Husqvarna) 3:08:33;
Johan Carlsson (Husqvarna) 3:08:42;
Calle Bjerkert (Husqvarna) 3:10:10;
Joakim Ljunggren (KTM) 3:10:44;
Oskar Ljunstrom (Husqvarna) 3:11:08;
Marcus Gothenberg (Husqvarna) 3:11:16 …13. Billy Bolt (Husqvarna) 3:14:24 …27. Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna) 3:22.54 …32. Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna) 3:26:05
World Enduro Super Series Standings (After Round 7)
Billy Bolt (Husqvarna) 4420pts;
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) 4145pts;
Josep Garcia (KTM) 3700pts;
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM) 3675pts;
Wade Young 3220pts;
Nathan Watson (KTM) 3103pts;
Paul Bolton (KTM) 3092pts;
Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna) 3010pts;
Jonny Walker (KTM) 2900pts;
Lars Enockl (Gas Gas) 2272pts
GNCC – Ironman, Indianapolis
Last weekend’s AMSOIL Ironman GNCC signified the end of the 2018 season with well over 1000 competitors taking to the woods in Crawfordsville, Indiana for the 24th annual event and it was Steward Baylor Jr. came away with his first overall win of the season while Ben Kelly wrapped up the XC2 championship.
XC1: As the race began it was Ryan Sipes grabbing the early lead however, after a crash on the first lap Sipes would come through timing and scoring in eleventh place. Ultimately Sipes would end his day early after pulling off during the second lap.
Steward Baylor Jr. – Image by Ken Hill
Trevor Bollinger held the lead early in the race, battling with Baylor Jr. throughout the duration of the race, while Josh Strang made his way through the pack after starting in the sixth place position so as the white flag came out, Strang had his sights set on Bollinger and would make the pass stick before the chequered flag flew.
Baylor Jr. took the win and wrapped up third place in the series while Strang and Bollinger rounded out the podium with Ricky Russell, Grant Baylor, Layne Michael, Pascal Rauchenecker, Jordan Ashburn and Andrew Delong rounded out the top ten.
Josh Strang – Image by Ken Hill
XC1 Open Pro Event Results
Steward Baylor (KTM)
Josh Strang (HQV)
Trevor Bollinger (HON)
Ricky Russell (YAM)
Grant Baylor (KTM)
Layne Michael (HQV)
Pascal Rauchenecker (HQV)
Jordan Ashburn (BET)
Andrew Delong (GAS)
Jesse Groemm (KTM)
Overall National Championship Standings
Kailub Russell (297)
Thad Duvall (262)
Steward Baylor Jr. (219)
Trevor Bollinger (208)
Ben Kelley (192)
Josh Strang (189)
Josh Toth (177)
Ricky Russell (142)
Grant Baylor (115)
Craig Delong (104)
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XC2: As the XC2 250 Pro class took off it was Josh Toth grabbing the holeshot and early lead but Ben Kelley was soon leading the way and the overall on adjusted time. Toth would come through in second and the battle for the XC2 National Championship was on. The two would swap positions multiple times before Kelley was forced to pit where the KTM crew performed a tire change. Kelley would return to the race in second-place, with Toth reclaiming the lead.
Ken Belly XC2 – Image by Ken Hill
Toth would continue his charge, finishing ahead of Kelley for his sixth win of the season and also earning the second overall position against the XC1 Open Pro competitors. Kelley was able to put his head down and push on the final lap to bring home his first-career XC2 250 Pro Championship.
Beta USA’s Mike Witkowski has been steadily improving throughout the season, and after finishing fourth two weeks ago in Ohio he made the move into third this weekend. This marks Witkowski’s first XC2 podium appearance of the season, and his best finish on his Beta motorcycle while Craig Delong finished in the fourth place position, while Husqvarna-backed rider Evan Smith rounded out the top five.
XC2 Podium, Kelly, Toth, Witkowski – Image by Ken Hill
XC2 250 Pro Event Results
Josh Toth (KTM)
Ben Kelley (KTM)
Mike Witkowski (BET)
Craig Delong (HQV)
Evan Smith (HQV)
Austin Lee (HON)
Jonathan Johnson (YAM)
Brendan Riordan (YAM)
Alex Teagarden (HQV)
Hunter Neuwirth (YAM)
XC2 250 Pro Series Standings
Ben Kelley (323)
Josh Toth (305)
Craig Delong (199)
Austin Lee (170)
Evan Smith (158)
Mike Witkowski (147)
Pascal Rauchenecker (145)
Jonathan Johnson (141)
Liam Draper (131)
Zack Hayes (99)
XC3: When the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class took off it was the Sherco rider, Daniel Mundell taking the holeshot but it was Jesse Ansley taking the last win of the season. Chris Bach and Jake Froman would round of the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am podium.
Jesse Ansley XC3 – Image by Ken Hill
WXC: With the 10 a.m. race consisting of 893 riders, it was Aussie hard charger Tayla Jones who came through in second overall and first in WXC class followed by Becca Sheets, Rachel Gutish and Mackenzie Tricker.
WXC Podium – Becca Sheets, Tayla Jones, Rachel Gutish – Image by Ken Hill
AMA EnduroCross Series – Everett, WA
The Wind Arena in Everett hosted the penultimate round of the AMA EnduroCross Series and it was Colton Haaker who came away with the main event win after a race long battle with championship rival Cody Webb while Kyle Redmond rode a strong race to take the final podium spot.
Colton Haaker – AMA EnduroCross – Image by Tanner Yeager
Behind the top three the racing was just as intense and it was Ty Cullins, Noah Kepple, Geoff Aaron, Cooper Abbott, Max Gerston, Keith Sweeten and Mason Ottersberg who rounded out the top ten.
With just the Boise, Idaho race next weekend remaining, Haaker holds a six-point advantage over Webb. Redmond holds third with Tremaine fourth and Aaron fifth. Ty Cullins is sixth and leading the Junior Championship for riders twenty-one and under.
Colton Haaker
“I finally won Everett. I have never won here, and I felt that tonight was critical for the championship because I didn’t want next week to be a game seven win or lose in Boise. The championship is not done but it is a little easier now. I knew it was getting close to the finish and Cody made a mistake coming out of the rocks. It was now or never so I committed to the double and he came over on me a little, but he backed out and, from there, I just needed one more clean lap. I am bummed about Ty (Tremaine) getting hurt but, as we came to lap them, our lines just came together.”
Colton Haaker – AMA EnduroCross – Image by Tanner Yeager
Cody Webb
“That was tough for me to battle back and forth with Colton like that and this EnduroCross is tough. It was a great race and a great show for the crowd. We got really close when he passed me on that double. I had to pull out of that and I pushed to the end but ended up crashing in the rocks. I am happy that I rode better than I did in Denver but, of course, I am not happy about giving up the win.”
Kyle Redmond
“It was a great race. The track was super technical and tough, which suited my style. Me and Ty were battling for third in the championship and the race. Unfortunately, I think he got landed on. We were in a tight battle and they (Haaker and Webb) were in a tight battle and there was not enough room. I have worked really hard this year and I’m happy to get a good result.”
Colton Haaker topped the podium from Cody Webb and Kyle Redmond – AMA EnduroCross – Image by Tanner Yeager
Main Event Results
Colton Haaker, Husqvarna
Cody Webb, KTM
Kyle Redmond, Husqvarna
Ty Cullins, Beta
Noah Kepple, GasGas
Geoff Aaron, GasGas
Cooper Abbott, KTM
Max Gerston, Beta
Keith Sweeten, KTM
Mason Ottersberg, Beta
Cory Graffunder, Husqvarna
Kevin Dupuis, Husqvarna
Quinn Wentzel, Husqvarna
Ty Tremaine, Beta
Super EnduroCross Championship Points
Colton Haaker – 126 points
Cody Webb – 120 points
Kyle Redmond – 81 points
Ty Tremaine – 80 points
Geoff Aaron – 75 points
Ty Cullins – 73 points
Noah Kepple – 71 points
Cooper Abbott – 65 points
Mason Ottersberg – 45 points
Dustin McCarthy – 44 points
French Beach Racing Championship – Loon-Plage
The second round of the 2018/19 French Beach Race Series was hosted by the Moto Club du Littoral at Loon-Plage in northern France and it was Yamaha’s Milko Potisek who took the win after 24 gruelling laps ahead of Jeffrey Dewulf (KTM) and Yentel Martens (Husqvarna).
Yentel Martens
Series leader entering the Loon-Plage event following his winning performance at the opening round of the championship, Martens was forced to push hard during the opening laps of the race following a disappointing start. Completing the first lap down in 14th position he made up five places during the second lap to break inside the top 10.
Quickly up to sixth, he moved to third by the end of the fourth lap before hitting the front on lap five but on lap 11 he dropped to third which is where he finished.
Yentel Martens
“That was a tough race. I didn’t get a great start, so I had to work hard to get back to the front. I felt good during the early stages of the race – I was able to push hard and had a good rhythm going. After my pit stop I had some problems with my stomach. It was tough after that, but I’m happy. Apart from my stomach things were good – I’m pleased with third and look forward to the next round of the series.”
Yentel Martens
Digging deep during the final laps of the race, KTM’s Camille Chapeliere moved into fifth with two laps remaining and held the position to the finish. He ended the race as the fifth and final rider to complete 24 laps.
Camille Chapeliere
“Today was a good day, but I had a little crash in the second lap and dropped back to 18th. It was difficult to get back and pass the riders ahead of me. But I had a good rhythm and after my first refuelling I was ninth. My team told me that I was riding well and push hard. I kept pushing and I was fifth at my second fuel stop. I was riding kind of alone during the final stages of the race. The track was good, very physical but I feel like I am working in a good direction and I’m looking forward to the next round of the series.”
Camille Chapeliere
The series continues with round three in St Léger de Balson on December 1/2.
Results – French Beach Racing Championship, Loon-Plage
Milko Potisek (Yamaha) 24 laps 2:30:42.7;
Jeffrey Dewulf (KTM) 2:31:32.2;
Yentel Martens (Husqvarna) 2:33:44.7;
Daymond Martens (Yamaha) 2:35:11.8;
Camille Chapeliere (KTM) 2:37:49.6
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FIM Oceania Trial Championship – Christchurch, NZ
Christchurch hosted the FIM Oceania Trial Championship last weekend and despite the tough conditions and strong competition, it was the Australian team of Kevin Zarczynski, Sarah Chivers and Tom Woodhouse who proudly returned the Championship Cup and Shield to its rightful home. Made up of three members;, Team Australia displayed true grit and perseverance as they faced tough conditions and competition right to the end.
Team Australia
Day one saw Zarczynski dominate to win the solo class while Junior class rider, Tom Woodhouse earned second place overall before Sarah Chivers, who tackled challenges throughout the day that impacted her overall score, landing her in third position.
Kevin Zarczynski
“We overcame many challenges over the weekend, the first being that it was a three-day competition, which is unusual for Tom and Sarah who have never ridden a three-day trial before. Second, the event was held at three different locations which is very different for Trial, because normally the entire event is held at one location. Third, we were in streams all day. Everything was wet and a totally foreign environment for our team who are well practiced in drier conditions.”
Regardless of these difficulties, the team continued to bring the fire in Day two, with Woodhouse maintaining his position in second place overall. But eyes were on Chivers who overcame the terrain to move on up to second place in the Women’s class.
Coming into the third and final day of the Championship, Australia and New Zealand went toe to toe in a fight right to the finish for the Championship Cup and Shield. Zarczynski maintained a dominant lead throughout the day to score first place, but it was the perseverance of his two team mates, Woodhouse and Chivers that saw Team Australia bring the glory back home. Woodhouse claimed third position for the day in the Junior’s class, whilst Chivers fought her way right to the top to dominate her rivals and take out first place in the Women’s class.
It was a Cinderella story moment for Chivers and her team as she scored that top position and helped restore the confidence she may have lost on Day One!
Sarah Chivers
“I was a little bit worried coming into the Championship, because I haven’t been able to compete as much this year. And the first day was such a shock! But by the last day I was really pleased with my riding and it ended up helping us make it over the line.”
Zarczynski could not be happier with the team’s end result.
Kevin Zarczynski
“It was a chance to have a new group of young riders that were competing in their first International Trial. Each member contributed to our overall win thanks to their focus and perseverance. It was all to play for on the last day. Our team improved throughout the weekend, especially in the streams, and eventually progressed to be on par with the local New Zealand riders. This was in particular for Sarah, who lost the first two days, but progressed enough to succeed in winning the last day.”
Coming into the Championship with a long family history of motorcycle sport, Woodhouse was thrilled with their efforts throughout the weekend.
Tom Woodhouse
“I was really excited coming in the event but having to adapt to a different bike hindered my initial efforts. I also found the streams slippery and difficult to handle but eventually I found the right grip and the rest is history.”
2018 FIM Oceania Trial Championship – Christchurch, NZ
In what ended up being an epic International showdown, the comradery and hospitality displayed by our New Zealand counterparts was nothing short of excellent.
Dean Wilson Confirmed for AUS-X Open
The Monster Energy AUS-X Open Sydney is shaping up to be a grand slam of the world’s best superstars this year, with the flying Scotsman – Dean Wilson confirmed for the November 9 and 10 blockbuster inside Qudos Bank Arena.
Aus-X Open 2017 – Dean Wilson
Wilson raced to a career-best seventh overall during this year’s Monster Energy FIM World Supercross Championship despite missing rounds due to injury and included his first ever 450cc SX1 Supercross podium coming at the Indianapolis round inside Lucas Oil Stadium.
Wilson won the Saturday Main-Event SX1 Final at the 2017 AUS-X Open and believes the event provides a perfect platform to bounce back into the international spotlight, as he looks to secure a factory ride for the 2019 World Supercross Championship.
Dean Wilson
“I’m super excited to be returning to the AUS-X Open again in 2018, It’s perfect timing for me to come down and really put in a good performance; with the high calibre names that are competing this year, if I can beat them, then I’m back on the international radar, which is what I’m aiming for.”
Dean Wilson
During last year’s event, the 26-year-old took top honours during the Saturday night final, backing that up with a strong second place on Sunday.
Dean Wilson
“Obviously last year went really well – I won the first night and then backed it up with a second on the second night, which was awesome. But just the overall atmosphere and vibe – to come and see Australia and Sydney during the summer time was incredible, and I can’t wait to head back down under.”
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Pauls Jonass Signs with Husqvarna
Husqvarna Motorcycles have signed Pauls Jonass to the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MXGP team, where the 21-year-old Latvian will compete on Husqvarna’s FC 450 machine throughout the 2019 and 2020 seasons.
Pauls was crowned the 2011 85cc Junior World Champion, winning the 125cc Junior Motocross World Championship two years later the the World MX2 Championship in 2017 so at just 21 years of age, Jonass is one of the most promising young riders on the circuit.
Pauls Jonass – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
“I’m really excited to be part of the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team. The switch to the MXGP category is a big move for me but I can’t wait to get started. Joining such an acclaimed team gives me a huge amount of motivation to continue working hard in order to achieve my goals. I’m looking ahead to a great future with the team. I’ve known Antti [Pyrhönen] and the rest of the team members for some years already and it feels good to start working with them. Following my knee surgery last month, my goal right now is to start riding my Husqvarna at the earliest possible time. I want to maximise my time on the bike, so I can be fully-fit and ready to enter this exciting new season in the MXGP category.”
Pauls Jonass
Diego Clement – Head of Motorsport at Husqvarna Motorcycles
“We are extremely happy to have former MX2 World Champion Pauls Jonass join our team. We truly believe Pauls has the potential to become a frontrunner in the extremely competitive MXGP category. Pauls is one of the most experienced motocross racers of his generation and already a three-time World Champion. His speed is never in doubt, and he has impressed us, as he has the wider motocross community, with his ability to perform on varying track conditions. It’s going to be an exciting new season and we are all looking forward to seeing Pauls do battle against the MXGP class elite aboard our FC 450 machine.”
Kimi Räikkönen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing (IceOne) Team Owner
“With Pauls joining our team the goal is to continue our success. The Motocross World Championship is the most competitive global motocross series and we’re pleased to be strengthening our team with a former World Champion. I am confident all members of our team will give their best to help Pauls achieve his goals in the MXGP class.”
Pauls Jonass & Antti Pyrhönen
Antti Pyrhönen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MXGP Team Manager
“We are all looking forward to working with Pauls Jonass as he starts an exciting new chapter in his professional motocross career. Everyone knows Pauls is an extremely hard working rider, which we know will help him fit in perfectly with our team. Already being a world champion speaks volumes about his capabilities. He is both physically and mentally strong and has demonstrated time and again that he is able to excel even under the toughest conditions. We all can’t wait to start working with this young and extremely talented rider.”
Seewer Second at Sugo
Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s debutant Jeremy Seewer got the next chapter in his MXGP career off to a positive start in Sugo, Japan, with a silver medal performance at the final round of the 2018 All Japan Motocross Championship.
Jeremy Seewer
“It was a very special weekend from many points of view. It’s been different but a really nice experience, it was a nice track, very technical. I was second two times, but the result was not so important today, it was just about having fun and I had a lot of fun out there today. Now, I look forward to a few days of testing.”
Jeremy Seewer
Saturdays’ rainfall made for challenging conditions. Seewer’s versatility was highlighted as he took to the track for the first time on board his Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP YZ450F in the early hours of Sunday morning and after a few minor suspension adjustments, managed to set the second fastest lap time in the Qualifying Practice session.
The sun beat down on the Sugo circuit ahead of race one where Seewer chased Japan’s defending champion Kei Yamamoto and the former two-time World Champion Tim Gajser around the first corner before following Gajser past Yamamoto a few turns later. As the terrain improved, so did his lap times and after moving into second-place the 24 year-old focused on adapting to the track conditions but suffered from arm-pump almost instantly and had to ease off the pace and settle for second.
After making some more suspension changes ahead of race two, changes that would reduce the chance of arm-pump on the tight, compact, rough and rugged Sugo circuit, Seewer felt more comfortable in the final race where he pulled an outstanding holeshot on board the standard YZ450F that he was riding. Despite being on a standard bike, Seewer still looked fast and ‘at home’ for the full 17-Laps as he charged hard to another second place finish, and second overall for the weekend.
Following his first podium appearance with the Monster Energy Factory Yamaha MXGP Team, Seewer will remain in Japan for three days of testing before he returns home to Switzerland where he plans to rest for a few weeks before resuming his off-season preparation in December.
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Young Returns for Wildwood Rock
South African Wade Young has raced his Factory Sherco to victory at the 2018 running of the infamous Red Bull Romanics then backed that up with emphatic victories at the 111 Megawatt in Poland and again at the Sea to Sky event in Turkey and he is now focused on winning this weekend’s Wildwood Rock Extreme on the outskirts of Melbourne.
The 22 year-old Red Bull athlete arrived in Australia just in time for the Moto GP at Phillip Island last weekend where he was able to see the elite of road racing up close and personal for the very first time.
Wade Young
“I really enjoy Australia, it’s so different to everywhere else I race around the world yet it’s so similar to back home in South Africa. It was so cool to bet at the Moto GP. It was the first time I have seen Moto GP live and it was great to cheer on my countrymen Brad Binder and Darryn Binder. It was a cool way to start off this visit to Australia before I race Wildwood this weekend.”
Wade Young
Young and his Sherco Factory mechanic Franck Boulisset are now preparing for the Wildwood Rock Extreme at the Motul Pirelli Sherco Team workshop in Melbourne with Boulisset fine tuning a Sherco 300 SE-R supplied by Sherco Australia.
Despite winning the 2017 Wildwood Rock Extreme by a comfortable margin and currently enjoying career-best form, Young remains focused on the task ahead of him this Sunday.
Wade Young
“2018 has definitely seen some of my biggest results but I have also had some bad luck and not achieved all the results I was after, so I’m looking forward to Wildwood. It’s not super-hot and not a super long race but the rock garden section is tough going. It’s really hard and quite physical and high intensity and I expect the track to be a bit harder than last year.”
Wade Young
The four-hour race will test rider and machine but with Young in peak physical condition, it’s hard to look past the defending champion as a possible winner.
Stephen Tuff
“Wade is a beast of a competitor, he’s confident in what he does yet remains humble and never gets too far ahead of himself. It’s a pleasure to watch him in action because he can do things on a motorcycle most of will never be able to do. Watching him navigate seemingly impossible obstacles leaves me with pure admiration for his dedication to becoming the best extreme enduro rider in the world.”
The 2018 Wildwood Rock Extreme is on this Sunday at 227 Feehans Road, Wildwood, just 15-minutes-drive from Melbourne airport. On-track actions begins at 9.00am with the main race starting at 11.00am.
S-X Open Auckland to host KTM Junior Supercross Challenge
The KTM Junior Supercross Challenge will make its highly-anticipated New Zealand debut during the 2018 Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland next month, set to take centre-stage at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, 24 November.
Just two weeks following its second AUS-X Open Sydney appearance alongside the S-X Open International Supercross FIM Oceania Championship series opener, there will be a total of 10 aspiring supercross stars aged between seven and eight years old who will take to the track on supplied KTM 50 SX machinery at round two.
Patrick Stafford – Manager, KTM New Zealand
“We’re very excited to introduce the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge (KJSC) in New Zealand. It’s been a long time coming, to have an international supercross event here in New Zealand, and it’s awesome to be a part of it. The KJSC has been extremely successful in the United States, as well as Australia, so we are looking forward to seeing the successful applicants take part in S-X Open Auckland at Mt Smart Stadium. This will be an incredible experience for KJSC riders and we are certain they will remember it for a lifetime to come!”
What Racing is Left for 2018?
There is still plenty of motocross, supercross and enduro events between now and the New Year with the most prominent being the AUS-X Open this coming weekend then the 2018 ISDE in Chile – see the list of the remaining events for 2018 below:
Australasia
Australian Supercross Championships – Nov. 9-10 – AUS-X Open – Sydney
New Zealand Supercross Championships
Nov. 24 – SX Open – Auckland
Dec. 1 – South Waikato
Dec. 15 – Southland
America
2018 AMA EnduroCross Series – Nov. 3 – Boise, ID
2018 World Vet Championships – Nov. 3-4 – Glen Helen, CA
THOR Mini Olympics – Gainesville, Florida – Nov. 18-24
2018 Day In The Dirt – Nov. 24-26 – Glen Helen, CA
2018 AMA World Off-Road Championships (WORCS) – Nov. 9-11 – Primm, NV
Canadian Triple Crown Supercross
Nov. 3 – Quebec
Nov. 17 – Hamilton
Europe
Stuttgart Supercross – Nov 10. Stuttgart, Germany
World Enduro Super Series (WESS) – Nov. 10 – Red Bull Knock Out Beach Race – The Netherlands
ISDE – Nov. 12-17 – Chile
2018 Paris Supercross – Nov. 17-18 – Paris, France
French Sand Championship
Dec. 2 – Rd3 – Saint Leger de Balson
Dec. 9 – Rd4 – Hossegor
Jan. 6 – Rd5 – Grayan-et-L’Hopital
Jan. 27 – Rd6 – Le Touquet
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Billy Bolt retains overall WESS lead heading to final
Images by Future7Media
It was local Swedish riders who dominated the 2018 Gotland Grand National, comprising Round 7 of the World Enduro Super Series, with Albin Elowson topping the podium ahead of Robert Kvarnstrom and Ken Bengtson in the muddy conditions.
The 2018 Gotland Grand National proved one to remember as conditions deteriorated with heavy rain
Renowned as the world’s largest Enduro race, over 3000 riders competed in this year’s event, with Friday kickstarting the proceedings where up to 600 Hobby riders enjoyed near-perfect conditions. From Friday evening onwards however, the rain fell hard on the Scandinavian circuit, ensuring that the 35th GGN would be remembered as one of the wettest in history.
Albin Elowson – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
As the Elite, Senior and Junior class riders blasted off the start line on Saturday, thousands of riders jostled for position in the mud. Clearing the early carnage safely, Elowson moved into the race lead on lap one followed by Kvarnstrom.
2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
The duo then went head-to-head, pushing a pace that quickly saw them distance themselves from the ensuing pack. By midway, Elowson showed no signs of slowing down and pulled clear of Kvarnstrom to claim a convincing win at the end of the sixth and final lap.
Despite a late push by Kvarnstrom, the Yamaha rider had to settle for the runner-up position, while Bengtson rounded out the podium in third. Apart from the local top three, Taddy Blazusiak worked hard in the final stages of the race to claim fourth, while Sebastian Martensson rounded out the top five.
Manuel Lettenbichler – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
When it came to WESS the title contenders, Spain’s Josep Garcia crossed the finish line in 12th to slightly close the gap to series leader Bolt, who finished 13th. Although holding 25th with one lap remaining, a crash in the closing stages of the race pushed Manuel Lettenbichler back to 43rd overall.
With just the final round of the championship remaining, Bolt extended his advantage over Lettenbichler to 275 points. Garcia, in third, closes to within 445 points of the second placed Lettenbichler. Blazusiak’s fourth place result at GGN sees him move up to fourth overall, but more importantly he now sits just 25 points behind Garcia as the race to become this year’s ‘Ultimate Enduro Champion’ moves to The Netherlands for Red Bull Knock Out.
Billy Bolt – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Albin Elowson – P1
“I’m so happy to take the win here in Gotland. I knew I had the speed before the race, but you never know what can happen around here, especially in these conditions. I got a decent start and tried to make some passes in the early chaos. I had a good fight with Robert Kvarnstrom but after the first pit stop I was able to open up a small gap and managed to maintain that lead for the whole race. Overall, I felt good and was happy with my pace. I went through a lot of goggles – that’s one of the main things at this race, you have to keep your eyes clear in order to ride properly. Also, a big thanks to the team. They were great and both pit stops were excellent. Finally, it’s good to be able to show what I am capable of – especially with the GGN now part of WESS. I know I have the speed, I just have to build my confidence a little and hopefully I can get some more good results in the future.”
Albin Elowson – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Robert Kvarnstrom – P2
“That was a really tough race. It was so wet and so muddy. I think it was one of the toughest editions of GGN that we’ve ever done. I got a good start and was running with Albin Elowson early on, but a few mistakes and some issues with the traffic cost me time and he gapped me. After that I just rode my own race. I found some more speed towards the end, but it wasn’t quite enough to pressure Albin for the lead. Congratulations to him for the win – I’ll have to come back next year and fight for the victory again.”
Robert Kvarnstrom – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Taddy Blazusiak – P4
“I am happy with fourth place, especially as it’s my first time racing here and we had very little preparation for such a tough race. To finish as the top international rider feels really good, too. This is such a special event – you need the right set-up and without experience, it’s difficult to find that. We expected it to be wet and a little muddy, but nothing like what we had – it was next level out there. I had two small get-offs, which cost me some time and so it’s a little disappointing not to have finished on the podium. Fourth place has given me some good points for the championship though, especially as I finished a fair bit higher than the rest of the regulars.”
Taddy Blazusiak – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Billy Bolt – P13
“It’s been a really hard race, much harder than we initially expected when we first arrived in Gotland. The consistent rain from Friday onwards turned the entire track into a mud pit and from the very beginning it was a real tough battle. I had an ok start but then a really bad opening lap. A rider crashed in front of me and as I stopped to avoid him someone else crashed into me from behind and we all were stuck in a puddle. I got going again but got mixed up in another crash and went down again – that’s when I broke the throttle tube. I tried to fix it at the side of the track but lost so many places as a result and had to pit on lap one to repair the damage. When I got going again I had to push to recover. Although 13th is not the result I wanted, considering the issues it was a good result. With my championship rivals also not having the best of days I still managed to stretch my lead at the top of the standings as we now look towards to the final round of the championship at Knock Out.”
Billy Bolt – 2018 Gotland Grand National – WESS Round 7
Josep Garcia – P12
“Overall, I am happy with how I rode but it would have been nicer to finish a little higher in the standings. I got a good start but crashed with another rider and a lot of the other competitors got past me – after that I had to overtake a lot of riders. Nathan and I rode together for a while and that was good, we were able to push and made up a lot of time. Unfortunately, I had another crash that damaged the bike a little so after that I just tried to make it safely to the finish. It was a tricky race for me – very cold and physically challenging racing in those conditions for three hours – but I earned some good points for the championship and now look forward to the last round in The Netherlands.”
The World Enduro Super Series concludes with the eighth and final round – Red Bull Knockout –on November 10.
Albin Elowson claimed top honours from Robert Kvarnstrom and Ken Bengston
WESS Round 7 – 2018 Gotland Grand National
Albin Elowson (Husqvarna – SWE) 6 laps, 2:59:02
Robert Kvarnstrom (Yamaha – SWE) 3:01:52
Ken Bengston (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:03:38
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 3:06:59
Sebastian Martensson (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:08:33
Johan Carlsson (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:08:42
Calle Bjerkert (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:10:10
Joakim Ljunggren (KTM – SWE) 3:10:44
Oskar Ljunstrom (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:11:08
Marcus Gothenberg (Husqvarna – SWE) 3:11:16
Oskar Olsson (KTM – SWE) 3:11:17
Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 3:12:54
Billy Bolt (Husqvarna – GB) 3:14:24
Paul Bolton (KTM – GB) 3:15:42
Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 3:16:16
2018 WESS Standings – After Round 7
Billy Bolt (Husqvarna – GB) 4420pts
Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) 4145pts
Josep Garcia (KTM – ESP) 3700pts
Taddy Blazusiak (KTM – POL) 3675pts
Wade Young 3220pts
Nathan Watson (KTM – GB) 3103pts
Paul Bolton (KTM – GB) 3092pts
Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna – GB) 3010pts
Jonny Walker (KTM – GB) 2900pts
Lars Enockl (Gas Gas – AUT) 2272pts
World Enduro Super Series – 2018 remaining rounds
Rnd 8. Red Bull Knock Out (The Netherlands) November 10
