National Cross Country Championship – Vryburg – Round 3
Brother Leader Tread KTM walked away with top honours at the third round of the National Cross Country Championship. In an epic battle for Cross Country glory, Scott Heygate stormed to his second Open Class victory of the season and second overall win, adding to the prestige was Matthew Wilson also claiming his second OR3 victory for the season.
The event was hosted on the renowned Scholtz Farm, a venue near Vryburg, delivering some great trails for the round.
Heygate facing stiff competition, implemented a two-lap fuel strategy that paid off, granting him victory after having a thrilling battle with Davin Cocker.
“We took a chance, and it delivered,” Heygate said. “It was an incredible ride with Davin, pushing each other to the limit. I am so chuffed to walk away with another overall win and class win and so grateful for the Brother Leader Tread KTM Team and Uncle Kevin behind me.”
Hot in pursuit of the OR3 championship, Matthew Wilson put in a fantastic ride claiming the top step in OR3 and fourth overall. The 2023 champion is strong in the hunt to claim the 2024 championship and this past weekend proved he is a solid contender.
“I took a gamble on fuel, similar to Scott, and it worked out,” Wilson stated. “Great day overall in Vryburg and the track conditions prepped and marked very well!”
It was a bittersweet day for Brad Cox and Kerim Fitz-Gerald however, facing fuel-related setbacks despite strong starts forced them to retire from the race early on.
Cox, whose season hasn’t quite lived up to expectations, was hoping for a better day, but the odds weren’t in his favour. His focus now shifts to his next adventure, where he’ll be participating in Argentina’s renowned DESAFIO RUTA 40 YPF INFINIA Rally.
He commented on the day stating, “Not the best weekend for me. I started the day off strong but sadly the race ended early on for making a calculated error and running out of fuel. I still felt good on the bike and getting there after my injuries of the beginning of the year. I will be away for two weeks in Argentina which is sure to keep me fit and on point but I am already looking forward to Upington.”
Round three went much better for Kerim Fitz-Gerald as he’s been battling a bit this season due to injuries and making up points wherever he can.
“Round three was a significant improvement for me,” Fitz-Gerald said. “Feeling good and ready for the next challenge!”
We’re incredibly proud of both Scott and Matthew’s performances this weekend,” said Kerim Fitz-Gerald, Brother Leader Tread KTM Team Manager. “Their hard work, fighting spirit, and dedication continue to deliver exceptional results. We look forward to seeing them maintain this momentum throughout the season.”
Published by: Megan Prinsloo – KTM Motorcycles
Photography by: Sage Lee Voges – ZCMC Media
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