Entries have now closed for the opening round of the FIM World Trial Championship, with confirmation that Australia will have an amazing 11 of the 40 riders competing in the event.....
The World Pro class has attracted 16 of the best riders from across the globe, headed by 7 time world outdoor champion Toni Bou (Montesa). Chasing Bou as he sets out chasing a record breaking 8th title this season will be the Spanish armada of Adam Raga (Gas Gas), Jeroni Fajardo (Beta) and Albert Cabestany (Sherco), as well as three more Spanish young guns setting out to stake a claim for a top ten placing. Riders in the World Pro class will be the final riders away from the start, they will wear rider numbers 1 to 18, and will follow the most difficult RED line within the sections.
BLUE markers define the course for the World Cup class, which features a fantastic 6 Australian riders taking on the best of the next generation of world championship stars, with rider carrying bib numbers between 34 and 51. This is the best opportunity for these Aussie riders to compete in the world championship fully equipped with their own bikes and equipment, and our riders are aiming to make the most of the two days of competition. This will be the first Aussie round under the NO STOP rules implemented by the FIM for the world championship. The different rules will require our riders to learn and adapt their style and techniques to suit the NO STOP rules, but our riders are up for the challenge.
Australia has 5 riders in the 125cc class, who will follow the GREEN markers within the sections. The NO STOP rules are perhaps the most challenging on the smaller capacity 125cc machines, and the Aussies will be put to the test over the two days of competition, and will be the first riders onto the course with rider numbers from 71 to 79.
Teams and equipment are already on their way to Maldon, with the international and local riders expected in the paddock (start/finish area) on Thursday 10th April, for first practice that afternoon. Scrutineering and course inspection will be completed on Friday, before the first day of the event on Saturday. Spectators will have access to the teams and riders in the parc ferme area, which is a great opportunity to see the factory bikes, meet the riders for a photo or an autograph, and take in the atmosphere of the event.
Rides and spectators alike are eagerly awaiting the opening round of the 2014 FIM World Trial Championship. With 11 riders in this years event, even more than any of the powerhouse trialing nations of Spain, France and England, Australia is all set to put on a great show of world championship trial action.