The second annual Mallee Motorcycles Enduro MX proved to be a punishing event with extreme conditions that tested bike and rider. Defending champion and local favourite, Nathan Trigg, showed plenty of heart and displayed his usual smooth and race-smart style by claiming second overall on his Motul Pirelli Sherco 450 SEF Factory edition.
Whilst Trigg relinquished his championship status, the Ouyen farmer was never challenged by third place and was content with his runner-up position after the three races that totalled more than 115-minutes of racing time in 40-plus degree Celsius heat.
“It was an awesome event,” Trigg said. “I had the boys from Mallee Motorcycles looking after me between the races which was excellent as they really know what they’re doing so all I had to worry about was trying to stay cool and racing my best. It was bloody hot out there, but gee is was good to be racing desert-style conditions and to put the Sherco on the podium.”
Ryan Cossens was another Sherco rider displaying some pace on his Tweaked Performance Sherco 500 SEF Factory edition. Despite a small crash causing a DNF in the opening race, Cossens regrouped to post fourth and third in the two remaining races which provided an excellent opportunity to assess early season setup and fitness.
“It was rough, really rough,” Cossens explained. “It was much rougher than Hattah with short, sharp bumps and sharp whoops but it wasn’t overly dusty. My Sherco 500 handled like a dream and my fitness is way above where I was last year so it was a good weekend for me.”
Danielle Foot unveiled her Road and River Sherco 300 SEF Factory for the first time at the Mallee Motorcycles Enduro MX and did so in style. Foot elected to race in the Pro Open division rather than the Women’s Class and relished the opportunity to race in very fast company.
“It was ridiculously tough, but it was good,” Foot offered. “It was the perfect event to get a feel for the new four-stroke after racing Sherco two-strokes last year. I also learned I need to train harder because I was absolutely flogged at the end of it. I had some good racing with a few other riders and I really enjoyed the 300 SEF.”
The Mallee Motorcycles Enduro MX has established itself as a must-do event for enduro, desert and motocross racers. The 4km natural terrain sand track is somewhat of a level battleground for the different disciplines to race on and the three-moto format is a true test of physical and metal fitness.
Photography: Andrew Kenny