KEMEA Yamaha Yamalube Race Report – GP18 Glen Helen
The mythical Glen Helen circuit was the setting for the last GP of 2015 last weekend. In the mecca of the American motocross scene, the riders were allowed to show the American public that the World Championship is also a solid championship.
After Benoit's podium finish last week in Mexico and Brent's in Assen, the KEMEA pilots were keen to end the season on a high note.
However, Benoit saw his chances diminish sharply on Saturday when he took off in full flight on one of the circuit's biggest jumps. He hurt his ankle, but fortunately the pain was not too bad and he was able to participate in the competitions provided he took some painkillers. Brent finished in 11th place on Saturday.
During the first heat on Sunday Brent crashed and lost a few places. As the series progressed he started to ride better and crossed the finish line in 14th. Benoit fought back the pain and was unable to ride at his full capabilities. He finished just ahead of Brent in 13th place.
In the second series Brent got off to a better start. After a few laps he was in eighth place and seemed to be doing well. A little later, however, Brent again had to deal with bad luck. Partly due to the tropical temperatures, the engines had a hard time and Brent had to leave the race. Benoit once again fought his way into the top 10 and crossed the line in 9th place.
In the daily results, Benoit came 10th and Brent 20th. In the final standings of this year's World Cup, Benoit achieved the first top 10 ranking for the team in the World Cup with ninth place. Brent finishes in 13th place in the World Championship despite missing a few matches.
Brent Vandoninck: “I am disappointed to end the season this way. The track here was great but I didn't ride as well as I could have. I was a bit confused on Saturday trying to get used to the course, but in the races it went better and better. In the first moto things went better after my fall. I rode better but at the end I was completely exhausted due to the heat. In the second moto I was doing quite well until I had problems with the bike. Not fun, but that is also motocross. Now we have to look forward to next year. I will have knee surgery next Thursday, so it will be important to recuperate as best as possible and get ready for next year.”
Benoit Paturel: “After my crash in qualifying I didn't know if I would be able to drive on Sunday. My ankle hurt quite a lot, but after some painkillers and a strong tape it worked. The results are not fantastic, but given the circumstances I am happy that I was able to finish twice. I was very lucky with the crash, so it's good that I didn't suffer any major injuries.”
Photos CDS
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