The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 Team lined up for the international race in Arnhem today. Jago Geerts was the best in the Dutch sand, with a double moto victory. Ben Watson finished fifth (9+2).
The international race in Arnhem was the first in the Netherlands since the outbreak of Covid-19 and the lockdown. With the restart of the FIM world championship in only two week’s time (in Kegums, Latvia), almost all top riders in MX2 were present at the Dutch sand track.
No Rush
Geerts, who was second in time practice during the morning, took a great start on his YZ250FM and was right behind Tom Guyon in second position, while teammate Watson was in 7th place. Geerts lost three places in a hectic first lap, but regrouped immediately. Meanwhile, Watson was also on the move. Unfortunately, the Brit lost his front after passing Olsen for fifth place and had to start all over again in 16th position. Geerts didn't rush things and passed his rivals one by one: Boisramé, Guyon, Vialle and finally Beaton to take the lead halfway the race. The Belgian kept a good pace and was in control 'till the end. Watson - who had to ride without goggles for a while - fought back and managed to finish 9th.
Yamaha Battle
What a start from our boys in the second race! Geerts took the holeshot, Watson was in third position. The Brit was on fire and quickly moved up to second place. But he wanted more and went for Geerts. The two Monster Energy Yamaha Factory riders had a great battle in the Dutch sand. Watson tried a few times to pass Geerts, but the Belgian - he was riding without rear brake the last ten minutes – responded well. "It is a great to see my two riders in front, but my heart was going like crazy", said team manager Marnicq Bervoets.
#193 Jago Geerts
1st place
"It was a good day, on a nice track. In the morning the circuit was still a bit too fast and too easy. But in the afternoon it got difficult and demanding. Just the way I like it. Ben made it very difficult for me in the second race. It was a nice fight. It was good to have a race like this under my belt before the restart of the world championship. I'm ready for the Grand Prix, that's for sure."
#919 Ben Watson
5th place
"I'm really happy with my riding today. Especially the second race: great start, good pace, nice feeling on the bike and a good battle. That was really fun. It's a pity that I crashed in the first race. I just passed Olsen, but lost my front wheel. I came back strong afterwards, but got a stone on my goggles and had to throw them away. Anyway, I'm glad to go home with a good feeling. I'm ready for Latvia!"
Next race: August 2, international race Axel (Ned)