Doug looks to go out with a bang
By TMX Archives on 18th Jul 07
Lampkin set for a homecoming party. WITH just over a week to go now until the TMX Grand Prix Great Britain takes place at Hawkstone Park on July 28/29, final preparations are well underway to deliver an event worthy of the tag The third and final homecoming'.
As well as this being the last British Trial GP for the foreseeable future, this will also be Dougie Lampkin's last ever Grand Prix on home soil as the multi World champion still looks for that elusive 100th GP win before he finally hangs up his boots.
Lampkin will be backed by an army of British riders who are looking for home glory and who will be looking for the same support they have enjoyed from the 8,000 strong crowd for each of the last two years.
James Dabill has been threatening a top five finish all season, and would so desperately love to achieve his best of the year in the UK.
Michael Brown currently tops the World Junior standings and could claim his first ever World title at Hawkstone Park, with this class dropping two of its counting competitions.
Brown will have to fight off the challenge of teenage sensation Alexz Wigg who holds second in the series despite being restricted to a 125 by his age having moved up to this class a year early.
And what about another British 1-2-3 as completed by Wigg, Brown and Sam Haslam last weekend in the Czech Republic?
In the 125 / Youth category Ross Danby is Britain's leading runner, and could just notch up his first win of the season in the Shropshire sand although championship leader Alfredo Gomez looks a shoe-in for the title.
Away from the main trial itself, Saturday's programme has never been so packed. For the first time ever, the public will have the chance to test ride the latest models from the five major trials manufacturers - Gas Gas, Sherco, Beta, Montesa and Scorpa as well as seeing Sherco unveil its 2008 models, which will be a Worldwide first.
The return of the Mini Masters trial, which was introduced last year to great applause, will once again provide a unique opportunity to see stars of the past back in action against a backdrop that is sure to be as highly competitive and as humorous as 12 months ago.
Bike trials, or perhaps as it is more commonly known, Cyclo trials, will make its first ever appearance at the TMX Grand Prix Great Britain, with some of Britain's best pedal trialists taking centre stage for two thirty minute demonstrations on Saturday.
The UK's current crop of cyclo trials riders are amongst the best in the World and have to be seen to be believed.
Trials guru and ex World Championship minder Woody Hole will once again be a key part of the commentary team and will share his expert knowledge and his behind-the-scenes experience to keep you informed throughout the weekend.
Woody will grab an interview with all the British riders along with all the World's best on Saturday morning as they make their way through technical control, ahead of these guys making themselves available for the public autograph session that will open what is set to be an outstanding weekend of off-road action. Adding extra weight to the event, oil giants Putoline have recently come on board to provide much welcomed support to ensure that this year's edition is the best yet.
The TMX Grand Prix Great Britain will take place over two days once again, with the trial itself taking place throughout Sunday. The trade village, that will include some of the UK's biggest dealers, distributors and importers, will be open on both Saturday and Sunday.
For the first time ever entrance tickets can be bought online, with great discounts on advance bookings (pre-bookings close July 22 ) and tickets will be readily available on the gate throughout the weekend. To book tickets / reserve on site camping / full event info visit www.ukworldtrial.com - for final trade/ sponsorship / general enquiries call 0161-705-2075.
Just one more thing - see you there!
*Visit www.ukworldtrial.com or call 0161-705-2075 for full event detail and the latest trial info.
HOW TO GET THERE
*Location - Hawkstone Park Motocross Circuit, Hine Heath Stanton, Shrewsbury, SY4 4NA.
*The venue will be AA signed (yellow/black signage) from the A49.
*Hawkstone Park MX Circuit is centrally located in the UK, just off the A49 near to the village of Hopton. The exit off the A49 can be found between B5065 and B5063, and is sign posted Booley / Stanton.
Gate Prices Sunday Only
*Adult 17.50
*Child Age 5 - 15 years old / OAP 10.00
*Child under 5 years old FREE
Saturday Only
*Adult 10.00
*Child Age 5 - 15 years old / OAP 5.00
*Child under 5 years old FREE
Camping is available on site, from Friday, July 27, through to Sunday, July 29, inclusive, at the rate of 15 per night per vehicle /tent - subject to availability (Please note that there is NO public access to the trial area itself on Friday, July 27)