Lotte van Drunen of De Baets AIT Racing secured a podium finish during the third round of the American WMX Championship at High Point Raceway. The Dutch rider finished third overall despite a chaotic second moto.
After placing second in the opening moto, Van Drunen appeared to be on course for another strong result in race two. At the start, she took a big gamble by going all-in for the holeshot on her standard bike. The risk paid off initially, as the Dutch rider emerged from the first turn in the lead.
Shortly afterward, however, problems began to arise. Her holeshot device became stuck, and she attempted to free the system while racing. Not long after, the moto was red-flagged following an incident on the track. Van Drunen expressed her hope that fellow competitor Mayla Herrick had not suffered any serious injuries.
During the stoppage, the team discovered that the Yamaha was leaking oil because an oil plug had come loose. Thanks to the quick work of her mechanic, the bike was repaired in time for the restart.
As a result of the issues, Van Drunen had to start from the back of the field without a functioning holeshot device. The two-time world champion refused to give up and produced an impressive comeback ride. Charging through the pack from last place, she fought her way back to finish fourth.
With moto results of second and fourth, Van Drunen secured third overall at High Point.
