Rick Elzinga of the Van Venrooy KTM Racing Team took another step forward during the eleventh round of the FIM Motocross World Championship in South Africa. The rider from Zenderen enjoyed a consistent weekend at the circuit near Johannesburg and was rewarded with 13th overall in the Grand Prix classification.
Elzinga made a strong start to the weekend by setting the 14th fastest time in timed practice. He then delivered an excellent performance in the Qualifying Race, crossing the finish line in 11th place to secure a solid gate pick for Sunday’s Grand Prix races.
In the opening moto, Elzinga completed the first lap in 17th position. Maintaining a strong pace throughout the race, he steadily worked his way through the field and eventually crossed the finish line in 13th place.
The KTM rider also delivered a consistent performance in the second moto. After starting around 15th place, he lost a few positions during the opening laps but fought back impressively to regain 13th. In the closing stages, he enjoyed an exciting battle with Pauls Jonass before ultimately taking the checkered flag in 14th place.
With moto finishes of 13th and 14th, Elzinga secured 13th overall for the day, marking another positive step in his return to the highest level of international motocross.
“We’re heading in the right direction. Step by step I’m getting closer to reaching my full potential. We still need to improve our starts and top speed, but the consistency, pace and flow are there. Thank you for giving me this opportunity,” said Elzinga after the races.
Having shown steady progress over the past few Grands Prix, Elzinga now heads to the next round of the FIM Motocross World Championship with growing confidence.
Photocredits – Juan Pablo Acevedo
