Irish Nations team
By TMX Archives on 11th Sep 08
THE Ulster pair of Gordon Crockard and Martin Barr along with Dubliner Stuart Edmonds make-up the Irish team going to the Motocross of Nations at Donington Park on September 28, THE Ulster pair of Gordon Crockard and Martin Barr along with Dubliner Stuart Edmonds make-up the Irish team going to the Motocross of Nations at Donington Park on September 28, writes DERMOT JAMES
"This is the pinnacle of the motocross season with at least 33 countries taking part,” said Irish team manager, Stephen Russell.
"It's a world team event which resembles the Olympics of motocross,” added Russell, who has been team boss for the past seven years.
"Last year at Budds Creek in America, where the team comprised Barr, Wayne Garrett and Tommy Merton, we ended-up 13th, which was no mean achievement,” reflected Russell. "At the end of this month we will be aiming for a top-ten result.”
"In recent times the team's best result was seventh in Belgium back in 2003 when Crockard was our top individual, finishing fourth.”
For Crockard the Donington date will mark his 11th Irish ‘cap' and judging by his Fairyhouse form he's up for the challenge.
"I missed out on a team place last year because I was injured but I regard riding for my country as a real honour,” said 29-year-old Crockard from Newtownards.
"Earlier this year I spent a lot of time contesting a cross-country series in America. It doesn't resume until later this month, but I doubt if I'll go back.”
For Barr who comes from Ballyclare this team selection is the ideal way to celebrate his recent 21st birthday.
Barr now does most of his racing in England where's he presently third in the chase for the British MX2 title which is led by Shaun Simpson who has been chosen for the Great Britain squad.
For the third teamster, 20-year-old Edmonds, this is his first time to gain this sort of recognition.
"It was a toss-up between Edmonds and Wayne Garrett,” explained Russell. "It was a tough one to call but since Stuart had the better performance at Fairyhouse the selectors gave him the nod. Garrett is the reserve rider.”
Crockard will concentrate on the MX1 class, Barr will go in the MX2 races and Edmonds will compete in the MX3 races.