Van Venrooy KTM Racing experienced a challenging but ultimately positive weekend at the MXGP of Sweden in Uddevalla. Rick Elzinga showed particularly in the second moto that his form is clearly improving, while Noel Zanocz once again secured a top-ten moto finish in the MX2 class. For Jeremy Seewer, the weekend came to an early end following a heavy crash in the first moto.
Rick Elzinga posted the 16th-fastest time in the timed practice session and finished 14th in the qualifying race. In the first moto, he came through the opening lap around 21st position and eventually worked his way up to 19th place.
The second moto went considerably better. Elzinga ran strongly around 11th position for almost the entire race and eventually crossed the finish line in 12th place.
Rick Elzinga:
“Actually, I’m really happy. Things are getting better and better, and with every race I’m getting closer to the level I know I can reach, although honestly, I’m still quite a long way from it. After the virus, I was really struggling. I had to miss Lommel, which hurt because it’s one of my favourite races, especially because there are always so many Dutch fans there. My knee is also still not quite where it needs to be.
“I’m pretty happy with this weekend. My speed was generally around 12th or 13th position. The first moto was a bit unlucky because I rode into the starting gate. But apart from that, pretty much every session was good this weekend, especially the second moto. I was battling with a few factory riders, and that makes it really fun again. It gives me a really good feeling heading into my home race next week.”
Jeremy Seewer started the weekend with the 14th-fastest time in timed practice and finished 10th in the qualifying race. In the first moto, the Swiss rider was running around 11th position when things went wrong. He landed on a rock after a jump and suffered a heavy crash. Seewer attempted to start the second moto, but after one lap he was forced to retire due to pain in his back and shoulder.
In the MX2 class, Noel Zanocz enjoyed a consistent weekend. The young rider set the 10th-fastest time in timed practice and finished 11th in the qualifying race. In the first moto, Zanocz finished in 12th position. He put in a strong performance in the second moto and crossed the finish line in 10th place.
Van Venrooy KTM Racing now heads to the MXGP of the Netherlands in Arnhem, where Elzinga faces an important home race and the team hopes to continue the positive momentum from Sweden.
Photocredits – Juan Pablo Acevedo
