Freak Weather
By TMX Archives on 16th Mar 06
I'm sure by the time DBR goes to print that our weather supplier will have realised that it's still winter and adjust it accordingly. I'm sure by the time DBR goes to print that our weather supplier will have realised that it's still winter and adjust it accordingly. Sunny and dry in February is unheard of in Ireland so when it happens during mid-term break you can be assured that the motocross fraternity will take full advantage of this pre-season gift from Mother Nature.Harry Corbett's Blaris Road practice facility has been running pretty much to capacity recently. Although there are no jumps the sand-based circuit cuts up rough which makes it ideal terrain to get bike fit.I've had the pleasure this month of visiting Brian Scott's circuit just beside Desertmartin. To say Brian and his team have built a great practice track doesn't even come close. Deep sand means the circuit is open throughout the year and the many jumps that litter the track will test even the most professional of riders. Thanks Brian for a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.Speaking of tracks, Desertmartin will host round one of the Ulster MX1 championship which is already generating quite a stir among the rank and file. With defending champ Martin Barr committed to a season of GPs and the British series there'll be precious little time for the Larne man to ride at home this year leaving the title chase wide open.In what were "the worst conditions that I've ever raced in" the Bike-it Dixon Yamaha rider mastered the treacherous conditions, taking a commanding win by over 20 seconds in the first British Masters moto of the year. Moto two was less productive as the track claimed all but 18 of the Pro Open class.Things are sure looking good for Ireland's latest export but besides racing against many of the world's fastest riders extreme danger may be found a little closer to home - in the kitchen to be exact. Yes indeed, the talented duo of Barr and Billy MacKenzie may shine on the track but Jamie Oliver they are not! One can only imagine the culinary delights that will be conjured up in the kitchen of Billy's new house throughout the season.Meantime, back on the local front there have been a few casualties already as the pre-race preparations start to move into panic mode. I'd like to wish a speedy recovery to Jason Garrett who sustained a shoulder injury while young Andrew Reid has broken a leg - get well soon guys!Billy Nutt's Ulster Motorcycle show was another resounding success although in terms of off-road presence it was Roger Magee's Wulfsport team who held court. Gordon Crockard was there, looking and sounding like the GC of old. The Newtownards racer is one hungry man and Crock Star is working hard towards his goal - nothing less than winning back his British crown will do. But what about GPs?GC is under no illusions. There are over 20 really fast guys in the MX1 class this year and the early races will be hard as he struggles to regain his momentum but Gordon is not going to just make up the numbers. The final position at the end of the year is not so important, what is though is getting a few good race finishes to reinstate GC as the front runner we all know he can be.Team AJ Plumbing riders Andrew O' Brien and Davey Gorman have been working hard both in the gym and on the track. Davey will race 125cc Husqvarna machinery with the support of Hugh McAvoy motorcycles. By all accounts the two-stroke tiddler was trucking around Blaris. Some would say that with Husqvarna offering a two-year warranty they could be in for a hiding with Davey in the saddle. On a positive note the machine is fast, stylish and if Davey hasn't managed to break it already I dare say it can't be broken!Another two-stroke pilot this year is multi Ulster champ Tommy Merton. Tommy will race a 250 Yamaha under the DG Williamson banner and campaign a 125 Rainey Brothers bike in the MX2 and summer supercross series.Finally, congratulations to Jeff Davidson and son Andrew on the opening of their new premises on Scolban Road in Dromore - a welcome extension to Glenhead Race Support Services. With over 15 years in motocross - and possibly double that in the field of engineering - Jeff is pretty much an authority in the preparation and maintenance of the modern four-stroke dirt bike and he specialises in engine rebuilds and suspension servicing.Words by Stevie Mills Photo by Sutty