Ton-up for Doug at Hawkstone Park?
By TMX Archives on 13th Apr 07
THE opening round of the 2007 FIM Spea Trial World Championship held in Spain earlier this month provided a great preview to the campaign ahead.
Although the series will not visit the UK until late July, preparations are already underway to ensure that the T+MX Grand Prix Great Britain keeps its place as one of the best events on the tour, as it has done for the last two years. The famous Hawkstone Park circuit will once again host Britain's most prestigious trial, July 28/29.
British interest in the title race, not only in the World pro-class, but also in both the Junior and Youth classes could not be higher, with the prospect of a home winner in all three categories being a real possibility. Twelve times World champion Dougie Lampkin continues to lead the charge in the top class, and his third place at the opening GP confirms that his dream of an eighth outdoor crown remains within his reach.
Said Lampkin: ''I think some people thought I would be just making up the numbers this year, but hopefully after finishing on the podium in Spain they will realise that I am as committed as ever to winning. I know it is going to be difficult to out-ride my younger rivals, but I have experience on my side. You have got to take each round at a time, but I can't help thinking about winning my 100th Grand Prix and coming to Hawkstone Park with a real shout of taking the title. Winning there in 2005 ranks as one of my best victories ever, and with no British round planned for 2008 and 2009, this year might just be my last ever home GP.''
Lampkin will be backed-up by reigning European champion James Dabill in the World pro category, the youngster from Leeds proving to be the sensation of the first round with a career best sixth position, a result he may secretly be hoping to improve on when he visits home soil later in the season. Flying the flag in the Junior class is Dabill's former TTT team mate, Michael Brown. The Beta rider romped to a massive victory in Spain to confirm to his main rivals that he is serious about taking the title this season.
Having won the 2006 World Youth championship, Alexz Wigg has elected to move up to the Junior class a year early, with his age restricting him to compete on a 125cc machine against the larger capacity bikes of his older competitors. Despite this disadvantage Wigg secured an incredible third spot at the first GP.
The T+MX Grand Prix of Great Britain will take place over two days with the trial itself taking place on Sunday. Saturday's programme will be packed with autograph sessions with the top riders, official practice and an extended version of the Mini Masters trial, which was received so well on its introduction last year. New for 2007 will be public test sessions, with all the trials manufacturers pledging their support to supply bikes and personnel so visitors can actually ride the latest models - more details regarding this unique opportunity coming up shortly.
And for the first time, entrance tickets can be bought online, with great discounts on advance bookings being available from today. To book tickets, reserve on-site camping or full event info visit http://www.ukworldtrial.com/
For trade, sponsorship or general enquiries call 0161-705-2075.