NATIONAL MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP – BORC
If the fight for the Pro Mini Championship wasn’t already exciting enough, it’s just been taken to a whole new level. South Africa’s rising stars lined-up for a bar-to-bar battle in Bloemfontein on Saturday for the penultimate round of the National Motocross Championship.
It’s been an unforgettable season of grit and determination for Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Neil van der Vyver, who after some setbacks has fought to reinstate himself as a frontrunner in his class. Separated by only a few points, Van der Vyver and KTM’s Trey Cox have gone head to head for Pro Mini glory.
Adding to the already intense battle was a comeback from championship rival Emmanuel Bako, who has placed himself back into contention for the title after a double win on Saturday. After what Van der Vyver describes as a “brutal battle” in the final moto of the day, Van der Vyver earned his spot on the podium with a second place overall.
Not only did he bring home silverware at one of his favourite tracks on the national circuit, but managed to narrow the points lead that Cox has on him. Van der Vyver will be left with no choice other than to leave it all out there in the last round as he capitalizes on the last opportunity to be crowned Pro Mini king.
“Wow, what a weekend! BORC hosted the penultimate round of the season, and it came right down to the wire! I managed second overall after a brutal battle with just about everybody on the track, and just want to thank everyone in my corner for the support,” said Van der Vyver.
Adding to the thrill of the weekend was yet another rock-solid performance from David Goosen. The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna star pulled off a podium finish in both the MX1 and MX2 Class, finishing second and third overall respectively.
“It was a good event for me in a way, mainly because I was really happy with the technical side of things. I managed to lead some laps, I had great starts, and I was super happy with my motorcycles. I just didn’t have the intensity to take the win and have a great idea of where I need to get better,” said Goosen.
Goosen by no means lacked enough pace this weekend and managed to take the lead multiple times on Saturday. After needing what he describes as “more lungs”, it will be back to the drawing board for Goosen who is determined to match his impressive pace and skill with equally as impressive intensity in the last round.
“I had so much fun racing this weekend – but it would be more fun to get a win or two! I’m determined to find something extra in the tank for the season finale. It’s not over until it’s over,” said Goosen.
Published by: Grant Frerichs
Photography by: Sage Lee Voges