DTRA Magazine#06

DTRA MAGAZINE ISSUE #06 WWW.DIRTTRACKRIDERS.CO.UK

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CONTENTS #

06

09 12 30 34 52 56 64 76 86 92 118 128

Intro

DTRA 2016 Round Five

Twin Picks

DTRA 2016 Round Six

Boastie Champions Flattrack School

Alan Birtwistle Interview

Greenfield Open Round

Superprestigio Preview

A Few Words with Mike Fisher

20 Questions with Hubert Bastie

A Few Words with John Harrison

DTRA Gallery #06

ON THE COVER: The DTRA Pro Champion 2017, Alan Birtwistle Photo: Ian Roxburgh CONTENTS: Higher left peg Photo: Ian Roxburgh

DTRA Magazine Issue #06 Grand Fromage: Anthony Brown Editor: Ian Osborne Design: Ian Roxburgh Photographers: Ian Roxburgh and Ian Osborne Contributors: Anthony Brown, Anna Butler, Peter Boast Race poster designer: Ryan Quickfall Race cat: Talbot Green WWW.DIRTTRACKRIDERS.CO.UK 5

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Photo: Ian Roxburgh

INTRO I can’t believe the 2016 DTRA flat track season is over already and our 2016 season champions have been crowned (page 34). Once again we had a fabulous season of hard fought racing. Apologies for round seven being cancelled but there’s nothing we can do about the weather. Fortunately, at all the other rounds the racing has been more competitive than ever before, regardless of the class.

It was so pleasing to see so many new faces who came along and joined our DTRA family, and in some cases shook a few classes up. You, along with all the regulars from the UK, Belgium, France and Germany came together to make it the most fun and competitive season to date. I thank you all for that.

We are pleased to announce that Alan Birtwistle took his first Pro class title in the 2016 season. He’s had a consistent year that has seen him improve with each round. You can find out more about how it went as he discusses his season on page 56.

Another first was the hugely popular TT race at Greenfield Dirt Track. Big thanks to George Pickering, his family and crew who made it such a sensation. Pickering himself had a successful season of racing and based on his overall points will join Oliver Brindley at the Superprestigio indoor race in Barcelona on 17 December. You can find out more about the event that brings together top two wheel racers from all genres of motorcycle sport on page 76.

Before I finish I’m sure you’ll join me in saying a huge thank you to our sponsors, our hard working volunteers and all of you who have made the 2016 DTRA race season so special. We are already working hard and looking forward to 2017.

We have a few tricks up our sleeves with the possibility of a new venue or two and more top flat track action. Enjoy the off-season and see you all next year.

Anthony.

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DTRA 2016 Maxxis UK National Flat Track Championships August 13, Amman Valley Trotting Track, Ammanford

ROUND 5

Round five delivered an action packed weekend of fast racing at the half mile Amman Valley Trotting Track.

A superb circuit and good weather provided the perfect setting for a great weekend of flat track racing.

All photos: Ian Osborne

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ROUND 5

Pro Class The Pro A final saw some amazing riding as youngster Toby Hales got a flying start to move into the lead ahead of series leader Alan Birtwistle, Aidan Collins and George Pickering. Hales rode a fantastic race staying out of trouble and held off his competitors for a well deserved victory. Birtwhistle chased hard but had to settle for second this time out. Collins rounded out the podium.

In the Pro B final it was Ross Herrod who was on fire as he quickly moved to the front of the race. He pulled ahead and went on to take a classy win. Behind, Scott Faulkner rode into second with James Courtney chasing hard. Courtney’s determination paid off as he took Faulker on the line for second.

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ROUND 5

Restricted Class The Restricted class provided one of the best races of the day as a tight group, including Jake Mason, Sean Byrne and Kye Forte, went into turn one together.

After a bad start Leah Tokelove started to move through the competition from behind. It wasn’t long before she moved into third and then passed Mason to go into second. Byrne looked set to take the victory but a hard drive out of the final turn saw Tokelove snatch the victory in the final seconds of the race. Byrne had to settle for second with Mason third.

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ROUND 5

Vintage Class In the Vintage class Guy Sutherland got a flying start and led the way with Guto Llewelyn and Vincent Priestley hot on his heels. Unfortunately, a mechanical ended Llewelyn’s hopes opening the door for Priestley and Mike Fisher. Sutherland rode a smart race for the win with Priestley second and Fisher third.

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ROUND 5

Thunderbike Class Ross Herrod showed his usual class as he got the holeshot in the Thunderbike class with Guto Llewelyn and Geoff Cain close behind. Guy Sutherland and Sean Vukovic started to work their way through the competition trading places in the process. Herrod held strong for the win with Sutherland just edging out Vukovic for second.

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ROUND 5

Rookie Class The Rookie class saw Ross Sharp grab the holeshot and move ahead into turn one. Sharp managed to stay out of trouble and went on to take the win. Behind, there was a dog fight for the remaining two podium sports that saw Tim Aucott grab second with Adrian Middleton third.

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ROUND 5

Minibike Class Joe Banks got a fast start and led the way in the Minibike final with Geoff Cain second and Andrew Smith third. Behind, Justin Heavens started to ride through as he passed Smith to move into third. Banks out powered everyone for the win with Cain second and Heavens third.

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ROUND 5

Youth Classes In the Youth Senior class Sky Adams got a great start and powered to victory with Joe Mansall second. Joe Burden and Jack Bell battled closely all day in the Youth Intermediate class. Burden had the edge for the win with Luke Gardner third. In the Youth Juniors Ted Wilkinson took the win with Wilbur Skipp second and Maddie Banks third.

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TOM CLEMENS42 #

Day job?

Originally a welder/fabricator but I’ve been running a small scaffolding firm for the last five years.

Years racing?

Four years racing flat track but I did a few years of enduro racing before that. I also did some school boy motocross from 12 to 15.

Why did you start dirt track riding?

In 2012 a couple of my friends were doing it and one of them convinced me to enter a meeting on his old bike before he sold it. I bought the bike on the way home and I’ve only missed one meeting since that first ride.

What aspect of the racing do you enjoy the most?

The adrenalin rush of the starts, the feeling of sliding a bike sideways and the occasional glory of winning.

Best result?

I recently won my first Thunderbike final at Peterborough. The competition on the day was so close between the top five that the racing through the heats had been really close. I had a great battle with Ross Herrod in the final and just managed to get the better of him before the flag. It was a tough race and I really felt like I’d earned it.

Worst crash?

I’ve been quite lucky. I’ve had my fair share of tumbles, some huge bruises and a concussion, but nothing that’s stopped me going to work on Monday morning. I suppose the worst crash would be when I knocked myself out at Leicester and got a concussion. It was a very weird experience for myself and those around me.

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Who’s your biggest influence?

Nobody in particular although I’m influenced by anyone with more dedication than me. Racers like Alan Birtwistle and Oliver Brindley for having the commitment to go and race in America, George Pickering for building his own track and Anthony Brown for running the club around a full-time day job.

What do you aspire to achieve in the sport?

I’d like to win the Thunderbike championship and be quick enough in the Pro class to regularly make the A finals. If I can keep racing and enjoying for another 10 years I’ll be well happy.

What’s your craziest travelling experience?

Driving to Noyes camp with Anthony Brown and George Pickering going over the snowy Pyrenees with no chains.

Pre-race ritual?

I don’t really have one. When I get to a meeting I normally get distracted chatting to all my mates I haven’t seen since the previous round. Then before I know it it’s the riders briefing and I haven’t even got the bike out the van.

What do you do outside of the sport?

It’s all bikes really. I have a group of friends that are into motocross. Sometimes I’ll go and ride at practise tracks and do the occasional meeting. I always seem to be in the garage too. I like to work on my bikes and I’ve always got a project on the go.

PAUL SHELDON3 #

Day Job? Painter/decorator and dad.

Years Racing?

I think this was my seventh year flat track racing. I started on and off in 2009 but raced motocross and Enduro for 14 years. That seems like a lifetime ago.

Why did you start dirt track racing?

Got fed up being stuck in the brown stuff in the Welsh mountains. Dirt track looked mad. I saw Pete Boast’s advert for his race school, had a wobble around and got sucked into the sport.

What aspect of the racing do you enjoy the most?

Getting away for a day or two from work and all life’s hassles. Also to have some valuable “me-time”. I enjoy having a good ride regardless of the result and talking b*llocks to anyone who will listen.

Best result?

I’ve had a few firsts in the Thunderbike heats but it all goes pear shaped in the finals.

Worst crash?

Christmas Cracker race on Boxing Day at Scunthorpe. I walked around the track before practice and it was frozen like bell metal. An hour or so later I went out in practice and wondered why everyone was riding so slow. I went out and gave it a big handful on the first corner for the big crowds but the track had thawed. I had a big highside resulting in broken ribs, fingers and knuckles. The nurse in hospital just looked at me and said: “You don’t bounce too well at your age.”

Who’s your biggest influence?

No one really. I am very self motivated but in flat track its has to be Peter Boast. Looking back in the sport’s early days Peter’s passion, drive and riding skill are to be applauded, and his passion for the sport never falters.

What do you aspire to achieve in the sport?

Longevity. I am 50 on my next birthday and want to race for as long as possible. I’d also like to be British dirt track champion, Thunder Bike champion and Moto GP world champion. Sorry, I’m talking b*llocks again.

What’s your craziest travel experience?

I seem to be organised for craziness. Once driving back from a Scunthorpe race on the M18 on a red hot day cramp set in on both legs in the fast lane. It was so bad I couldn’t even work the pedals. I managed to get to the hard shoulder, roll out of the van in so much pain and just lay there. The police came along and thought I had been knocked down by my own van.

Pre-race ritual?

Just be organised and be by myself. Nothing else really.

What do you do outside the sport?

I have a three-year-old daughter and an old house I am renovating. I don’t have any time really but I like mountain biking and tinkering with bikes. I am up for anything if it’s got an engine and can be thrashed to death. D

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DTRA

2016 Maxxis UK National Flat Track Championships August 14, Amman Valley Trotting Track, Ammanford

ROUND 6

Round six saw a second day of action packed racing on the half mile Amman Valley Trotting Track. The long and fast circuit, along with good weather, provided the perfect setting for a closely fought day of flat track racing.

All photos: Ian Osborne

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ROUND 6

Pro Class The Pro final saw George Pickering, Aidan Collins and Alan Birtwistle get the jump on their competition as they moved ahead into the first turn. Birtwistle soon blasted to the front and pulled away from his competition to take the win. Pickering was in second with Collins third. Collins, the 2015 series winner, worked hard behind eventually getting through and went on to take second. Pickering had to settle for third on this occasion.

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ROUND 6

Restricted Class Daniel Kafka grabbed the holeshot as he led the way in the Restricted class with Leah Tokelove chasing close behind. It wasn’t long before Tokelove made the pass to move into the lead. Behind, Kye Forte was moving through the competition and soon found himself in second. Some classy riding saw Forte move to the front and take the win. Tokelove rode well for second with Kafka third.

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ROUND 6

Vintage Class The Vintage class saw Anthony Brown power into the lead with Guy Sutherland chasing in second and Michael Herman third. Brown and Sutherland pulled away from their competition as they continued to duke it out. After several attempts Sutherland managed to pass Brown and went on to take the win. Brown held strong for second with Herman third.

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ROUND 6

Thunderbike Class In the Thunderbike final it was no shock to see Ross Herrod take the early lead with Guto Llewelyn, Sean Vukovic and Guy Sutherland all chasing hard. It was Vukovic who moved into second with Sutherland third.

Vukovic kept the pressure on, made the pass to move into the lead and went on to take the win. Llewelyn rode well moving into second where he finished.

Herrod held off Sutherland to take the final podium spot.

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ROUND 6

Rookie Class The Rookie class saw Liam Worton lead into turn one with Barry Jukes second and series leader Ross Sharp in third. Jukes passed Worton to move into the lead and started to pull away. Behind, Sharp fought hard making his way into second and started to chase Jukes. Sharp made the pass and took the win with Jukes second and Worton third.

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ROUND 6

Minibike Class In the Minibikes class it was Joe Banks who got a great start leading Matthew Cole and Dan Foreman into turn one. The three were close throughout with Cole getting ahead and taking the win. Banks held on to second with Foreman third.

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ROUND 6

Youth Classes The Youth Intermediate saw the continued clash of Jack Bell and Joe Burden. Once again Burden had the edge for the win. Bell took second with Leon Collier third. Ted Wilkinson took the win in the Youth Juniors with Dan Mason second and Maddie Banks third.

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BOASTIE

CHAMPIONS FLATTRACK SCHOOL Peter Boast is the godfather of British flat track having been around since the start. He not only ran the first flat track series in the UK before handing over the reins to the DTRA, but still races today at a high level in the Pro class. When he’s not racing or working on his bikes he can be found running his Champions Flattrack School in Lincolnshire. At one level the school offers an introduction to the sport of flat track for beginners in a safe and controlled environment. At the opposite end the school can also provide valuable tuition for more experienced riders to improve all the way up to Pro class racing. The school has even seen top level riders from other two wheeled motorcycle disciplines, including MotoGP stars and world champions, going along to dial in their skills. It’s an impressive set-up, especially with his new indoor training facility. Whether you’re new to flat track or a seasoned veteran you couldn’t ask for a better set-up or tuition, especially as it comes from one of the best in the sport. We caught up with the flat track legend to find out more about his school and his new indoor training facility.

Is flat track gaining more popularity right now?

PB: For years we’ve known that flat track is a fantastic sport and now everyone else is catching on.

What has prompted this popularity?

PB: Flat track is gaining in popularity everywhere. It helps that many up and coming MotoGP stars and world champions use us as a valuable part of their training schedule.

Tell us about your Champions Flattrack School?

PB: The Champions Flat Track School offers riders the chance to develop their skills on the bike. It helps them gain vital experience in learning to control their bike, using their riding position and throttle control, all while learning to slide on our fantastic dirt ovals.

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Where does the school take place?

PB: We are now running training sessions at the TCR Ranch near Lincoln. It’s a clay based track that’s perfect for getting a blue groove down.

Is this the permanent home of your school?

PB: We are gradually developing the facilities here to make this our permanent home. We are currently working on an all weather facility that’s perfect for winter training.

Luckily, owner Tim Coles saw the merits in letting us use a track that he originally built for his nephews, Tim and Tom Neave, to practice on.

How are things developing at the TCR Ranch?

PB: We have now taken it a step further by extending a

farm building, bringing in a new surface and levelling that.

This will make a perfect indoor training facility. It’s taken a lot of time and hard work but it’s become a great track.

It rides well with just the finishing touches left to complete.

Are you doing any open practice or training sessions over the winter?

PB: In addition to running our training schools we will be running open practice and training sessions at the indoor track. This is new for the 2016/2017 winter. The sessions allow riders to get much needed track time on their mini bikes, or one of ours, and sessions are priced accordingly.

Will you have any instructors for these practice sessions?

PB: Instructors will be on hand should anyone require tips or hints on developing their riding skills, bike set up and such like.

What size bikes is the track designed for?

PB: If you own a CRF100, CRF125, DRZ125 or TTR125 then this is for you. Bikes must have standard pipes to meet noise requirements. There’s no need to prebook if you have your own bike. It’s just a case of signing in on the day and no is licence required.

Do you have classes for these sessions?

PB: Riders will be divided into Rookie, Pro and under 16s depending on numbers.

What about times and prices?

PB: You can arrive any time from 11am onwards and we ride until 4pm. It’s £35 per rider with your own bike. Cash on the day.

What about bike hire?

PB: Bike hire is available at £80 and this includes the price of the session. We only have a limited number available so please call or email in advance to reserve a bike (01673 878426 peter.boast1@btinternet.com).

What dates are currently available for this winter?

PB: We will be running open practice throughout the winter. Dates currently available are: Saturday 26 November Saturday 10 December Saturday 31 December Saturday 28 January Saturday 11 February More to follow What’s the address of the school?

TCR, Moat Farm, Caenby Road, Glentham, Market Rasen, Lincs, LN8 2EE What would you recommend for beginners or those looking to improve?

PB: It might help to get a spot of coaching before coming to one of the practice sessions to get the most out of them.

Details of these coaching sessions are on our website (Flattrackschool.co.uk). The Champions Flattrack School offers three levels of training from people who have never ridden flat track, through to those who would like to refine their skills.

Who is level one aimed at?

PB: Level one is for beginners or people who are proficient bike riders in any discipline but novices or new to flat track.

What about level two?

PB: Level two is ideal for people who have mastered our beginners course or those who currently race flat track in the Rookie class.

And level three?

PB: Level three is aimed at flat track racers and Pro class riders looking to refine their skills and find that extra something for race day. These are run at Greenfield Dirt Track so are only available during the summer months. D

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ALAN Interview BIRTWISTLE 56 DTRA MAGAZINE

Britain’s Alan Birtwistle is one of the fastest Pro class riders on the DTRA race circuit. He grew up riding motorcycles having raced both motocross and on the road. Since starting with flat track Birtwistle has been riding consistently well and steadily improving over the years. In 2016 he had his best year to date and was crowned series champion after six of the seven events on the DTRA calendar. He’s a hard working rider and his dedication to racing is unquestionable. We caught up with Birtwistle to find out more about how he thought his season went.

All photos: Ian Roxburgh

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ALAN Interview BIRTWISTLE I CAME FROM MOTOCROSS AND HAVE USUALLY DONE WELL ON TT TRACKS.

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How does it feel to be 2015 DTRA series champion?

It feels brilliant. It’s taken a lot of hard work and thought over the years, so it’s great for it to pay off.

Did you do anything different this season with your bike or your approach to racing?

To the bike I just made small changes in set up. Over the years I’ve learnt something new from each race meeting and have tried to continually better the bike and myself with the knowledge. I’ve tried to be a bit more relaxed this year.

How do you approach racing?

I try to keep calm and focused when possible. Throughout the day I try to make sure that I’ve made as much of an educated decision as possible when it comes to bike setup and how I’ll ride the track. I try to brew confidence from knowing that I’ve done as much as I can.

Tell us about the start of the season and how you felt after finishing third at rounds one and two?

I’d injured my knee a little prior to round one so was happy that I had raced and got on the podium. Aidan and Oliver weren’t hanging around. Round two the track had gone off by the final and didn’t suit my style. I took note of some things to work on for those track conditions.

How was it racing against the Americans at the Trans-Atlantic Trophy that featured at round two and how did you perform?

It was great. Some of the riders were on the same pace as us so it was fun to have more riders to dice with. I managed to win one of the finals and team GB won overall.

Does racing against the Americans help you lift your game and did you learn anything from racing them?

The Americans race more and on a wider range of tracks and surfaces than we do. It’s good to learn from their lines and style when the track is in a condition that I struggle with, especially when riding with a fast expert.

At round three at Greenfield it all came together for you but only after a nasty fall. Did this give you added motivation to do well?

I was sore going into the restart and decided I was definitely going straight to the front to not get mixed up in the carnage again. Maybe the knock gave me more focus somehow.

Did the TT track help your style of riding?

Yes. I came from motocross and have usually done well on TT tracks.

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You went on to win at round four at the Adrian Flux Stadium at Kings Lynn. Did you have a new found confidence to win after Greenfield?

Yes. It flicked my confidence up a level going into the next round. I’ve usually gone pretty well at Kings Lynn and knew I would be back in championship contention if I won there.

What was it like racing at night at this event?

It was great. I’d personally like to race all flat track meetings at night as the dirt retains the moisture better. This keeps it more consistent for faster and safer racing. The meeting also had a good atmosphere with the lights and crowd.

At round five at Amman Valley Trotting Track how do you feel your race went?

I had a good battle for the lead at one point during the final but had lost my brake part way into the race.

Toby (Hales) had found some confidence and was flying.

The following day at round six at Amman you were back to your winning ways. Did missing out the day before give you added motivation to win?

I knew that if I won at round six then I had won the championship. This gave me the motivation to focus and push harder.

Did you do anything differently with your bike or the way you raced on the long course at Amman at round six?

I made a gearing change which definitely helped. I changed my lines and riding style a little based on what I had learned from the previous day.

How did it feel winning the championship with another round to go?

It was a great feeling and it took all pressure off for the last round.

Had round seven not been cancelled due to poor weather would you have still raced?

Yes. I would have raced. I enjoy it, and although winning the championship was the main goal, any race wins are still important to me and my sponsors.

Plans for the winter and next year?

Over the winter I plan to work on my stunt riding some more. I’ll also do some demo races at shows.

I plan on going to the States to race the Daytona TT in the spring. Next year the DTRA once again and the FIM Cup. Tell us more about you tricks and stunts. Plans for shows?

I enjoy the stunt riding and will perform some shows next year. My main aim is to get into film and commercial video work with it.

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ALAN Interview BIRTWISTLE I KNEW THAT IF I WON AT ROUND SIX

THEN I HAD WON THE CHAMPIONSHIP.

Bike: I raced a CRF450 this year and will most likely race it again next year.

Sponsors: I’m very grateful to my sponsors (Vincent Motorcycle Ltd, AAA Racing, TW Suspension Tech, Dave Clarke Racing, Voritex, Lightshoe, CM Griffin Engineers and Co-Built). Without them I wouldn’t be able to fund racing at the same level.

Favourite event: Dirt Quake weekend. We race our meeting the night before and then get to relax and enjoy the shenanigans. I’ve also enjoyed performing stunts there and the crowd have liked it.

Favourite flat track course: In the UK Greenfield TT. I enjoy a lot of tracks in the USA all for different reasons.

I love the Springfield TT and short track, Savannah GA and Neoga.

Which result are you proudest of and why: Greenfield this year because I was hurting from the crash but managed to put myself in the right zone mentally and not let it faze me. D

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GEOFF CAIN / RYE HOUSE / PHOTO: IAN ROXBURGH

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LENDdtra L OF SEASON OPEN FLAT TRACK RACE

GREENFIELD DIRT TRACK, ALFORD 1ST OCTOBER 2016 The DTRA braved the poor weather forecast to hold an open race meeting at Greenfield Dirt Track, it took place in the evening under floodlights. The open event allowed racers who would normally race in different classes come together to do battle in this one off event. Along with the open class the DTRA also held a mini bike race along with a two junior classes. All of this provided an evening of fast paced flat track action until rain stopped play. Fortunately, all the qualifying heats had taken place so overall positions were based on these results.

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GREENFIELD

Open Class The Open class, which was held on the tacky dirt of the Greenfield oval, saw father and son duo Oliver and Derek Brindley doing battle with local hotshot Toby Hales. All three rode in dominant form in their heats. It was Pro class rider Oliver Brindley who had the edge winning his first two heats before finishing second in his third race to take the win.

Brindley senior showed his experience as a lifelong racer as he took second overall. Hales, who is one of fastest improving Pro class racers, rode consistently well for third.

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GREENFIELD

Minibike Class

In the Mini Bike class, which raced on the technical Greenfield TT track, saw lots of close racing between Toby Hales, Joe Banks and Oliver Brindley. Once again local racer Hales was on top form.

This time he won his first two races along with a second which was enough to give him the victory. Second place saw Open class winner Oliver Brindley back on the podium as he took second with Joe Banks, who had been riding superbly all evening, take third.

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GREENFIELD

Youth Junior Class The Youth Junior class took place on the Greenfield oval and was dominated by Ted Wilkinson who won all of his races to take top honours. Thomas Hunt chased hard with three second place finishes to take second while Maddie Banks continued to show promise as she rode her way to third.

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GREENFIELD

Youth Inter Class In the Youth Intermediate class Fergus Bluff had a top evening of results on the Greenfield oval as he won his first two qualifiers along with a second place finish to take the win. Jake Hamilton also had a consistent race with third, second and fourth place finishes to take second overall. Kai Cotton also had a solid evening of racing to round out the podium in third place.

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THANKS TO...

The Pickering family.

Trevor, Steve, Freddie and Matt.

Greenfield grid girls for braving the cold wet conditions All the DTRA staff including Nick, Andy, Ava, Leah, Anna, Pete and Tim. UK Life Medics staff.

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PREVIEW:

SUPERPRESTIGIO 2016 All photos: Ian Osborne

The fourth annual Superprestigio invitational indoor flat track event will take place on December 17, 2016. The race, which takes place at the Palau Sant Jordi stadium in Barcelona, brings together a selection of top racers from two wheeled motorsports. The event features three classes including Superprestigio, Open and Junior. All have their own final along with a Superprestigio Superfinal that brings together the top four riders from the two adult classes.

The Superprestigio class is reserved to riders that take part or have taken part in the FIM Road Racing World Championship (MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3) or other premium international championships held on tarmac racetracks. This year’s qualifiers include Mark Marquez (ESP), Tony Elias (USA), Jordi Torres (ESP), Marcel Schrotter (GER) and Dani Ribalta (ESP).

In the Open class, where DTRA racers Oliver Brindley (GB) and George Pickering (GB) qualified to race, there’s a long list of top racers from other styles of motorcycle racing. This includes top flat track racers Brad Baker (USA) and Jared Mees (USA), dirt track racer Masatoshi Ohmori (JPN), speedway riders Fredrik Lindgren (SWE) and Joonas Kylmakorpi (SWE), and Supermoto racer Tom Chareyre (FRA).

The Junior class invites riders from 6 to 11 years of age who qualify for the “Alevines” class of the 2016 Dirt Track Copa Rodi Michelin. This includes Max Sachez (ESP), Brian Uriarte (ESP) and Joel Esteban (ESP).

This year’s race promises to be the most competitive event to date. Baker, who is the 2013 AMA Pro Flat Track Grand National champion, knows the event well having won the Open class and Superprestigio Superfinal in January 2014, and repeated his winning ways at last year’s race. He will certainly be the racer with the biggest target on his back.

Compatriot Mees has a huge history in flat track racing as a four-time AMA Pro Flat Track Grand National champion (2009, 2012, 2014, 2015). He was runner up at the Superprestigio in 2014 and finished third in 2015.

The Americans won’t have it all their own way as home crowd favourite Marquez has proved he has the moves on the indoor dirt oval. He’s won the Superprestigio final at every event and went on to win Superprestigio Superfinal at the second event in December 2014, and after finishing second in last year’s Superfinal he cannot be counted out.

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BIKE RULES

Motorcycles Admitted: Dirt track, Motocross, Enduro or Supermoto bikes featuring dirt track specs.

Type of engines and cc: 4-stroke engines of 250cc or more.

Front wheel rims: 16.5 or 17 inches.

Rear wheel rims: 17 inches.

Compulsory Tyres: Michelin Supermotard for wet (slicks or sculpted tyres not admitted).

Brakes: Front brake removed.

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SUPERPRESTIGIO TRACK

The Superprestigio dirt track is a short-track dirt circuit with flat turns. This oval is made from grippy packed orange clay and features cushioned protection around its perimeter. The total track length is 200 metres with 80-metre long straights. The track is 10 metres wide at its narrowest part providing some superb and close racing.

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OLIVERBRINDLEY What’s it like racing the Superprestigio against such big names?

I try to forget about my competitors and focus on my own riding. It’s cool to race against some of the best in the world, but when you want to beat them it’s much more difficult when you think about their ability.

You had a great result in 2014 Superprestigio. Tell us more?

It just went well from the start that year. I was young with no expectations. I could go out and have fun racing at such a great event. I guess that’s what helped me move forward to the super final and set the fastest lap of the race. If I look back, I was a contender but messed up the start.

What happened in 2015?

I was enjoying riding the track and had the fastest time in qualifying. I ruined my heat and that’s all it takes.

What’s the track like?

It’s slick and good fun to ride but is a difficult track to race on.

Do you have to ride it in a different way to DTRA events?

I’ve learnt how to control myself from charging too hard. I need to find my aggression on making passes like the winners.

Tell us what you have learned from racing here?

The layout of the race meeting is a lot different to what we’re used to racing with the DTRA. Do you set your bike up differently to a regular DTRA event?

We will make the trip out to Spain the week before and train at a track that’s similar. That way I can find a set-up that works close to what I’ll need come race time. It’s also good to get some practice in.

What’s it like riding smaller wheels?

It feels more twitchy and I find that you have less grip in the front.

How’s the motocross start?

The gate start is different to what we are used to. I stay positive and practice starts with them in training leading up to the race.

Will it help having fellow DTRA racer George Pickering going to the race with you?

It’s good. We’ve done some training together and I look forward to being out there with him. It will be good to see his debut at the event. I’d like to thank my family, sponsors and supporters for their help, and getting behind George and myself. Also I’d like to thank all of the people that organise such a great event in Barcelona.

What are your hopes for 2016 Superprestgio?

I would like to make it to the super final and work forwards from there.

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Photo: Ian Roxburgh

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GEORGEPICKERING How do you feel about qualifying to race here?

Excited. It’s one of the biggest flat track races in the world and gets a lot of press. It’s exciting to be competing in it.

What do you expect the racing to be like?

Tough. I’ve been to watch the Superprestigio for the past two years and it looks like you need big elbows.

Making a good start looks important too. It looks difficult to make up lost ground with it being such a small and technical track.

You have been to watch the race before and checked out the surface. As a track builder what are do you think of it?

I went over to watch in 2014 and 2015. The surface is different to most tracks that we ride on in the UK. It’s a slick surface and the dirt has a lot of clay in it. I took some dirt home in 2015 and got it tested. I love dirt.

How are you going to approach the race?

I’ll be riding as much as possible. I’ve never ridden with 17-inch wheels before so I will be practising with those.

Also the motocross style start gate is something I’m not used to. It would be nice to get some practice with them too. As for race night I’m not 100 per cent sure what to expect. I’ll just need to keep a cool head, ride smooth and hope that luck is on my side.

Have you got any tips from Oliver and Derek Brindley about racing here?

Yes. A few. Oliver, Derek and I talk often. They’ve both helped me with advice on various things. Oliver and I are hoping to get plenty of track time in at my track (Greenfield Dirt Track) on the 17-inch wheels before the race. Hopefully we can help each other out.

What have you done to prepare for this race?

Once again I’m racing in the Mablethorpe Winter Sand Racing Series that is local to me. I’ve also been riding my dirt track bike as much as possible, but the weather in UK doesn’t allow for that to happen much. Ollie (Brindley) and I have been out to Italy to race at the EICMA show and I’m hoping to get out to Spain before the Superprestigio to try and get some riding in on a similar surface.

How will you set up your bike compared to DTRA events?

The big difference will be the 17-inch wheels. We’ll be trying to run a super smooth map. It won’t be a track where horse power is an advantage. A steeper headstock angle will make the bike turn in faster, so we’ll be playing about with different yolks. Gearing will be as important as ever. With it being my first time riding there we’ll be busy in the practise sessions trying to suss that out. Other than that it’s still a dirt oval and I’ve been doing a lot of different set up changes to my KTM this season and it’s working well now.

What are your hopes for the 2016 Superprestgio?

To enjoy it. Obviously I’m motivated to do well but just to be riding at the Superprestigio is an achievement I’m proud of. If I have some luck and give it my all, who knows what’ll happen?

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MIKE

FISHER #80R

Who is Mike Fisher?

I’m a 57-year-old organic farmer. I bought a small empty field 25 years ago on a loan.

Everything here, including the hedges, trees, buildings, greenhouses, water and electricity, and most recently the practice oval and TT track, I’ve done myself with the help of farm workers and those who hang out here. The key was getting permission to live here so I could pay off the loan. At first I lived in a trailer then in a log cabin style house I built. We grow vegetables for our local veg box deliveries and have tunnels where we harvest tomatoes, cucumbers and salads for wholesale customers. We did five tonnes of cherry tomatoes over 12 weeks in the summer. To justify the oval track we’re growing medicinal herbs in the infield and making our own gritty workshop hand cleaner that will be sold under the Black Barn MC label.

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All photos: Ian Roxburgh

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Why motorsport?

I was into racing cars as a kid and read a neighbour’s Motorsport magazine. I went to a hill climb and discovered bikes. I started with a Honda PC50 that was replaced after four weeks with a new Fantic Caballero from my paper round money. I did a Welsh enduro on it. Then I got a Bultaco Alpina and a Morini 3½ that I hill climbed. After that it was a 350 Bultaco in a homemade alloy plate frame.

I might have been influenced by a friend who in the 70s lived in a tipi whilst semi-pro drag racing. We kicked up dust clouds on Salisbury Plain in the hot summer of ’76.

It takes me to the opening sequences of the film Easy Rider.

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What’s in your wheeled collection?

• 1972 Champion framed Bultaco Astro that’s my Vintage class race bike.

• 2007 Suzuki RMZ450 DTX bike that doesn’t get as much use now I’m Astro fixated.

• 1974 Bultaco Pursang/Sherpa/Matador hybrid that’s been used for the Exeter and Lands End trials and had an outing as a Street Scrambler at Dirt Quake V. • 1972 Bultaco Pursang project.

• Beta Alp field bike that uses more oil than fuel.

• Kawasaki KX100 used on the BMX pump track and bomb hole in the woods but about to get a four-stroke motor to make a DTRA minibike.

• Suzuki SV650 bought to make a street tracker but then I went racing.

• 2001 Sprinter veg van and bike hauler.

• 1976 Ford 4600 two-wheel drive tractor that I use to earn my living and groom the track with.

I’m in the process of clearing out the workshop to make cash and room for current projects.

MIKE

FISHER #80R

How did you end up racing with the DTRA? I saw On Any Sunday on 8mm at Southampton and District MCC around ’77. Then it was Gary Inman and Sideburn, and Steve Anderson who races in Australia. I was going to build a bike but ended up buying the RMZ from David Gwyther (Death Spray). This meant I got on the track rather than being bogged down in the workshop. My first outing was a Scunthorpe practice day. The Sideburn van pulled up one side of me and Survivor Customs the other, and I chatted trackside with Dickie (Brown). I was hooked and buzzing afterwards. I’d never raced before. Leicester 2015 was my first time on a starting grid. I’d just done some long distance trials more recently, and hill climbs and enduro events 30-40 years ago. D

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All photos: Ian Roxburgh

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20 QUESTIONS WITH

HUBERT BASTIE H

ubert Bastie has become a regular on the DTRA race circuit and has steadily improved over the years. He got his first motorbike at 16 but had been dreaming about motocross since he was six. Unfortunately, his parents didn’t want him to have a bike as a youngster. Bastie started racing at 18 and only did one race a year until he got himself sorted with a race hauler three years ago. Then the craziness began. He went to Dirt Quake 2 which got him thinking about flat track racing. Six months later his two-stroke YZ was ready for the 2014 championships.

The flamboyant French youngster has a passion for cheap 80s motorcycles. Over the years his collection has grown to 11 including an SR 500, a Supertenere, FZRs, a TW 200, a vintage Husky, a YZ and a Honda Hélix. Whatever he’s riding Bastie always races hard and does it with a huge smile on his face.

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20 QUESTIONS WITH

HUBERT BASTIE

1. Describe your first motorbike?

It was a yellow 2005 GasGas trials bike. I got it when I was 16.

2. How did you do in your first race?

I did my first race at 18. It was a local motocross event and I raced on a CR-125. I finished 35th out of 150 riders.

I was happy with that.

3. What’s your essential brekkie?

Ah nothing. Just a coffee sometimes.

4. Lucky race charm?

I don’t have any.

5. Essential tool in your box?

Duct tape and zip ties.

6. Energy drink, tea/coffee or a cheeky shot?

Any random energy drinks are welcome.

7. Who are you arch enemies on the DTRA race track?

The dust. I hate that.

8. What’s you bike hauler for races?

My dad works in a coffee factory. Three years ago I bought one of the black coffee delivery vans. It’s a 2005 Renault Trafic. It has 310K on the clock and is still on the road.

9. Biggest waste of your time?

Losing two years trying to enter a physiotherapist school.

10. Craziest place you have slept since you started racing motorbikes?

Maxime and I have a secret place close to Ashford where we sleep and camp. We spend three hours trying to find it and we sleep there once or twice a year.

11. Pee in cup/bottle or wait for the motorway services?

At the services. And we buy £20 of fluro coloured poo flavoured chemical candy and drinks.

12. Three people to have dinner with (alive or deceased)?

Travis Pastrana, Hakan Carlqvist and Eric Sorby.

13. Which DTRA racer has the most race swagger?

Ross “The Boss” Herrod.

14. Worst injury?

Torn cruciate ligament. I did that two years ago.

15. Favourite place to race and why?

Norfolk Arena at the Dirt Quake weekend in front of my enthusiastic friends.

16. What theme music would play to a film of your life and why?

The Lion King?! Ah ah no seriously I don’t know.

17. Pre-race rituals and meal?

Racing makes me want to pee. So I pee before every start.

18. Funniest person you know?

My mate Max when he’s drunk.

19. Reading?

Sideburn mag.

20. What will you be doing over the next couple of months?

The season is over so I have to work on my bikes for the 2017 season. I also spend a lot of time at the hospital to earn enough money to race at least 10 events next year. D

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GALLERY #06

Anthony Brown #47 leading from the off down the long back straight at Amman Valley All photos: Ian Osborne

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GALLERY #06

The wait...

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GALLERY #06

#176x, Chris Jenner #134R and Bram De Roeck #62R in formation

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GALLERY #06

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Sideburn’s entertainments manager and DTRA flag man extraordinaire Dave Arnold

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GALLERY #06

Bram contemplating...

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Two Geoff Cains and one Toby Hales

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“Racing is life, everything else is waiting...”

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GALLERY #06

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Toby Hales leading into the first corner

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GALLERY #06

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Sam Hurst #116

George Pickering #38

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GALLERY #06

Derek Brindley #24

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GALLERY #06

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David Van Parijs #85R

John Harrison #104R

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The DTRA Pro Champion 2017, Alan Birtwistle Photo: Ian Roxburgh

DTRA Magazine Issue #06 Grand Fromage: Anthony Brown Editor: Ian Osborne Design: Ian Roxburgh Photographers: Ian Roxburgh and Ian Osborne Contributors: Anthony Brown, Anna Butler, Peter Boast Race poster designer: Ryan Quickfall Race cat: Talbot Green

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