NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP – DELMAS
The curtains of the National Cross Country Championship have started drawing to a close with the penultimate round of the series taking place in Delmas, Mpumalanga, this weekend. With two national titles within their grasp, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna are preparing to fight tooth and nail for every last championship point that remains.
Leading rider Brett Swanepoel will be out for redemption this weekend. The rider faced his greatest test of the season when he ran out of petrol in the previous round. With the help of a fellow rider, Swanepoel dug deep to get to the finish line and salvage his hope of defending the prestigious OR1 Championship.
Having chosen his weapon of choice to finish the 2021 season strong, Swanepoel will return to his trusty Husqvarna FX 450 this weekend. “Without trying all our options, which fortunately we have with our line-up of Husqvarna models, we will not learn and progress – so with that being said, the race for this OR1 championship is far from over! After the last round, Brett has decided to stick to the FX 450 as his weapon of choice for the rest of the season.”
“I just finished up the last bit of testing before the weekend and I’m feeling as confident as ever on the FX 450. Let’s go!” said an excited Swanepoel.
Joining him in the battle for Cross Country glory is Rockstar Energy Husqvarna teammate Davin Cocker. The youngster put on an eye-catching performance in the last round when he stormed to victory in the OR3 Class and third place overall.
Having stepped onto the overall podium for the first time in his career, Cocker will undoubtedly line-up with a fresh sense of confidence this weekend. Not only did the rider prove that he has what it takes to race against the frontrunners in this sport, but sent a strong message that his Husqvarna FC 250 is a force to be reckoned with.
Cocker has been dealt his fair share of blows this season and has been relentless in his effort to claw his way back up the leader board. His recent victory has put him back into contention for the OR3 Championship and only a few points separate him from the top step.
While the race for the national title will come right down to the wire, the rider remains undaunted as he prepares to face on the familiar Delmas terrain: “I like this terrain a lot and feel really comfortable on it. I feel so determined knowing I’m in second place by just a few points. I know this race is going to present a big battle for the championship lead, but I’m ready for whatever this weekend throws at me. My FC 250 is feeling great – from handling to power and speed. I couldn’t be happier with my setup, and I can’t wait to get out there!” said Cocker.
Published by: Grant Frerichs