Febvre Conquers Valkenswaard Sand
By TMX Archives on 29th Mar 16
Monster Energy Yamaha Factory rider Romain Febvre won his second Grand Prix in a row, fighting a tricky and unpredictable course of compact, wet sand in Valkenswaard and a pack of hungry challengers at the MXGP of Europe.
Febvre qualified third in dry conditions on Sunday, and rode the first moto in search of a rhythm that he could'nt quite catch, finishing third. Monster Energy Yamaha Factory teammate Jeremy Van Horebeek came off a much poorer gate selection to gain spots steadily in the morning race, finishing fifth with much optimism for the second moto.
Kemea Yamaha Official MX rider Valentin Guillod rode steadily from a good start to finish 12th in moto one, while DP19 Yamaha Official's David Philippaerts crashed in the opening lap, injured his back slightly and leaving him unable to finish the early race.
In the afternoon race the sun shone brightly, but on top of wet pools of muddy sand and tricky bumps that defied easy riding and required constant focus.
Van Horebeek guided his YZ450F expertly over the constantly climbing first half of the Valkenswaard track and held a steady second place throughout the moto, until teammate Febvre passed him in the final two laps to challenge the leader and ultimately win the race.
Guillod crashed on the opening lap and struggled to regain position throughout the race, finishing 16th. Philippaerts recovered from his back injury to place 19th in the second moto.
