WHILST all riders in the recent Trial des Nations were disappointed to finish second to Spain in both men’s and ladies competitions there are still many British achievements to applaud.
Following on from his maiden victory in the Scottish Six Days in May, Alexz Wigg capped a fine season by being crowned European Trials Champion. Alexz was, however, reminded that he can’t rest on his laurels as our younger talent continue to snap at his heals.
Leading the charge is Halifax youngster Jack Challoner who followed in third place in the European Championship but overcame severe pressure from overseas competitors to take a brilliant victory in the World Junior Trials Championship.
Also learning about pressure from overseas was 17 yr old Ipswich youth Jack Sheppard who matured rapidly throughout the season and finished an impressive runner up in both the FIM Youth Cup and the UEM Junior 125cc Cup.
British ladies continue to impress; Becky Cook finished second to the very special talent of Laia Sanz in the Ladies World Championship, pushed hard by Joanne Coles in third and Emma Bristow, fourth. Joanne turned 18 in the middle of the year and turned the tables on Becky in the European Championship taking the runner up slot with Becky third.
The two Jacks and Joanne certainly have youth on their side and they offer a genuine hope of the return to British domination of the World Trials scene in the very near future.
(By Mick Wren)