British MX Grand Prix declared a great success!
Despite World Cup fever having gripped the nation, it was
off road motorcycling making the headlines over the weekend,
and for all the right reasons
With over twenty thousand paying guests having enjoyed the
superb Matterley Basin circuit during last Saturday and Sunday,
the British MXGP proved to be a great success both on and
off the track. Everyone who witnessed the two days of fantastic
action at the sun-baked venue applauded the excellent viewing
facilities provided by the natural basin setting.
Equally, the safe and flowing nature of the track was received
well by the riders who pushed their skill and bravery to the
limit to produce some of the best racing seen this season.
Teenage sensation Tommy Searle added the icing to the cake
and brought the largest roar from the passionate British crowd
as he grabbed his first ever podium finish at World level
at his home GP.
Through in the MX1 class it was business as usual for MX
legend Stefan Everts, who took victories in both motos, however
the reigning champion was forced to work hard in the second
race when he recovered from a minor crash to once again take
the winner’s champagne. Everts’ track knowledge
will prove invaluable when he returns to Matterley Basin in
late September to take on American riders Ricky Carmichael,
Bubba Stewart and the rest of the World at the prestigious
MX of Nations event. This will be a historic moment for the
sport, with Everts and Carmichael competing for the final
time at this level.
Reflecting on last weekend’s MXGP and looking ahead
to the MX of Nations, with increased anticipation and excitement,
Bike It’s headman Martin Mainsbridge explained.
“The MXGP has been a big success without doubt, but
that isn’t to say that we have not learnt valuable lessons
from running our first event at this brand new venue.”
“From the feedback we have already received it is clear
that the vast majority of people have had a great weekend
and really enjoyed what Matterley Basin has to offer in terms
of space and unequalled track viewing, although we are not
going to deny that we did encounter a few teething problems.”
“The great news is that it is all systems go for the
MX of Nations, which will be bigger and better in every aspect
and will benefit incredibly from what has been identified
over the last week.”
“Whilst the basic layout of the track will remain unchanged,
it will be added to, to make it both more technical and more
spectacular.”
“We are also reviewing the camping areas and car parking
in order that the whole public experience can be improved
upon.”
“This time it was about delivering the basics, and
with them now in place, we can work on increasing the entertainment
away from the track and giving everyone even better value
for money in September.”
“Youth Stream were more than happy with our initial
efforts, and really believe that this year’s MX of Nations
is going to be one of the best ever.”
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