SAGAR CLAIMS CHAMPIONSHIP LEAD IN FINLAND
Third overall on day one, Britain’s Tom Sagar went on to win day two to offer himself a 27-point lead in the overall standings over Maurizio Micheluz.
Taking place in Jämsä, Finland, round three of the European Enduro Championship proved to be physically challenging for all riders. Day one started with perfect weather conditions and an exhausting 50km-long lap on rocky and sandy terrain.
“I’ve ridden many events during my riding career but this has to have been one of the hardest”, said Sagar. “Tests have been testing and the going has been endless.”
The Brit had a good battle with Finland’s Roni Nikander and Marko Tarkkala, who were both making guest appearances at the championship. Day one ended with KTM’s Nikander winning the overall and Beta’s Tarkkala finishing a close second.
“I’ve walked away with third overall extending my lead in the class championship and taking the lead in the overall standings, so I’m really satisfied” Sagar added.
Getting the lead from the start of day two, Sagar was able to get a second overall win in the 2015 championship.
“After a hard day on Saturday, day two was made a little easier with one lap less. I dug deep and set the pace on test one, giving myself a decent lead from the start, winning E2 and taking the overall win for the day.”
Another good performance saw Finland’s Marko Tarkkala end up second again, with day one’s winner Roni Nikander finishing third.
Still recovering from a recently dislocated shoulder, Sagar’s main rival for the overall title chase Maurizio Micheluz was unable to pose any serious threat to the Brit and ended up with a 19th and a 23rd places. The Husqvarna rider is still leading the Senior E1 class and will take his battle with Sagar for the overall to the next round in Germany.
Undefeated this season, KTM’s Sanna Karkkainen secured the title in the Women’s class at his home race in Finland.
The final round of the European Enduro Championship will take place in Rüdersdorf, Germany on October 30, November 1.