Lotte van Drunen of the Beursfoon KTM team claimed victory in the fifth – and final round of the EMX65cc European Championship qualifier at Arnhem. Lotte narrowly missed victory in the first heat, finishing second. In the second race, she turned the tables and won the race, which also secured the overall victory.
Due to heavy rains on Friday night, the qualifying schedule on Saturday was adjusted. The qualifying heat was cancelled, which meant that the qualifying practice times would determine the gate picks. The track helpers moved heaven and earth to ensure that the circuit was rideable.
Lotte posted the second fastest time on free training, and early on in the qualifying session she posted the fastest time. She improved on that twice more, making her the clear pole position holder. The weather turned out beautifully on Sunday, and Lotte spent the warm-up session exploring the track.
Lotte got into proceedings in fourth position in race one. She quickly moved up to third, but a mistake two laps in cost her a position again. She regrouped, and moved to third spot and then to second. She homed in on the leader, but time ran out and she finished second.
In the second moto The RK Service – prepared KTM launched her into the lead, and she and the second-placed rider broke away from the pack. Despite heavy pressure, Lotte won the race.
Lotte had done enough to claim the overall honours on the day. With the qualifying series now done, she has qualified in second spot for the final in Loket, Czech Republic at the end of July. She will participate in an open Dutch Championship event at Geldermalsen on a 65cc big wheel bike this weekend, and will also be in full preparation for the 65cc Junior World Cup which will take place at Arco Di Trento in Italy on 13 and 14 July.
Lotte and her team wish to thank Motorsport Park Gelderland for the great preparation and impeccable accommodation. Motocrossplanet followed her throughout the weekend and made a mini documentary. This video report will be available later this week, and our readers will be able to enjoy a behind-the-scenes look into her campaign.