Summarize

South African Husqvarna rider Brett Swanepoel rode home a fine seventh following what can only be termed as the hardest enduro on earth at the Red Bull Romaniacs in Sibiu, Romania on Saturday. Pepson Plastics Husqvarna man Swanepoel started cautiously, riding home a handy 12th on Wednesday’s first day but he then blasted into the top 10 where he stayed through to the finish.

“That was five really tough days of racing,” Salt Rock KZN lad Brett admitted. “But it was a really good week — I was twelfth on Wednesday and moved up to 7th on Thursday, but Friday was tough and I had to wrestle the bike home, so I was quite happy to start the final day 8th. “But Saturday was awesome — I was fourth for the day and that saw me back to 7th overall for the week.

“There were some ups and downs through the one of the toughest weeks I have ever ridden, but that’s racing, so it’s a really special word of thanks to everyone who made this happen from Husqvarna South Africa and our sponsor Pepson Plastics, to the Husqvarna Factory team that looked after us so well and gave me the perfect machine for Romaniacs and everyone else who has contributed to this amazing opportunity — thanks so much. 

“Most importantly, however I have really learned so much through the last week competing at the very highest level of extreme enduro,” Brett concluded. “Events like this are helping to grow me as a rider and I am so appreciative for the incredible support I have enjoyed so far.”

“Romaniacs was an awesome event for Pepson Plastics Husqvarna’s Brett Swanepoel with a fine 7th overall in this epic race,” Husqvarna Motorcycles South Africa brand manager Fred Fensham confirmed. “The organizers certainly thew the kitchen sink and more at the elite gold class riders this year — they somehow found climbs and descents the likes of which have never been seen or imagined before. 

“Brett struggled on day 3 when he literally scrummed his bike up a hill for over an hour, losing valuable time, but day 4 was his standout, coming home fourth to clinch that seventh for the week. “Well done lad — now to finish off the local season and then the Roof of Africa — bring it on!”