The British team and riders had a historic and unbelievable time at the 96th International Six Day Enduro at Le Puy in France.
The Trophy Team of Steve Holcombe, Nathan Watson, Jamie McCanney and Jed Etchells took first place ahead of reigning champions Italy, this quartet achievement broke the 69 years wait for victory that was achieved in Czechoslovakia in 1953 by Johnny Bratain, Hugh Viney, Bob Manns, Phil Alves and Jack Stocker.
The team under the management of Daryl Bolter got off to a steady start on Day One finishing the day in third behind Spain and Italy, however Day 2 saw them step up the pace and take the lead which they steadily extended throughout the week to secure victory on the day 6 speed test.
Not to be out done the women’s team of Jane Daniels, Rosie Rowett and Neive Holmes competing in their third Six Days together topped the women’s class following their second and third places in previous events. In second place from day one behind the USA, bad luck hit the American team on Day 4 when their leading rider crashed out leaving the British girls top of the pile with a ten-minute lead over France, not only did they pick up the Ladies trophy, but the Watling Trophy and Jane picked up the award for the best performance by a woman. A truly magnificent performance and just rewards for the hard work the girls put into the sport and deserve all the praise and accolades received.
The Junior Trophy team of Alex Walton, Harry Edmondson and Aaron Gordon were perhaps overshadowed by the senior and women’s team nevertheless they just missed a podium position themselves finishing fourth behind Italy, Finland and Australia, great performance for the young team.
Not to be out done, 12 British clubs teams took part with 6 of them making the top twenty, Braintree & District MC 8
th, Army MCA 10
th, closely followed by Team Scotland in 11
th, MCC of Wales 14
th, Midshires in 17
th and Rhayader & District MC & LCC in 20
th, truly the strength in depth we have in Britain’s enduro scene.
The ACU would like to congratulate all the riders, support teams, sponsors, and the many supporters in France at such a memorable week seeing a little bit of history being made.
© Pole Position Communication / Dario Agrati