Italian Championship - Pollein
Just a week after clinching an historic victory at the ultra
tough Scottish Six Day Trial, James Dabill could only manage
a slightly disappointing second position at the fourth round
of the Italian domestic series earlier today. Dabill found
himself trailing his team mate Lenzi by one mark after the
first lap, and lost further ground to his nearest rival during
the closing stages when he suffered mechanical problems very
late on.
Despite this minor set back James and his Future TRW Montesa
Cota 4RT still sit at the top of the overall championship
standings by a clear eight marks at the halfway point in the
series. The latest round took place at the unknown town of
Pollein, which sits in the North West corner of Italy, near
the French / Swiss border.
The usual Italian format of three laps of ten sections was
replaced by two loops of fifteen hazards on this occasion,
with dry grippy rocks being very much the order of the day.
Away from the big steps, the only variety came in the form
of some long and loose bankings.
After a week of traditional Scottish stream sections, Dabill
needed the first lap to re-adjust to the more typical modern
hazards. Although not riding at his best, James recorded only
one five as he remained in close contention to the early leader
and eventual winner Lenzi.
However Dabill’s efforts were not to be rewarded with
victory this time out, as he suffered four maximums during
his second and final lap. At least two fives were caused by
mechanical problems, as the extreme heat of the day produced
issues with the clutch in what were extreme and exceptional
circumstances.
Highly disappointed, Dabill reflected on what had not been
the best of days for the youngster from Leeds. “I came
here full of confidence after winning the Scottish, but in
reality it has been a tough day from start to finish. It took
me the first lap to get used to the more severe sections once
again and then I had the problems with the clutch on the last
lap. Taking everything into consideration, second place on
the day and to still be leading the championship, is not a
total disaster.”
“Hopefully with this out of the way, things will be
better in France next weekend.”
|
