Summarize

Pepson Plastics Husqvarna Racing enjoyed a strong end to a troubled South African Cross Country Motorcycle season at Bronkhorstspruit’s double-header season finale over the weekend. While it proved a tough couple of days with significant attrition across the two days that counted as individual races.

Bronkhorstspruit proved a great experience for stand-in OR1 rider Ryan Ripley who delivered a brilliant couple of third places, while Masters rider Iain Pepper enjoyed a positive return from injury, but OR2 man Taki Bogiages had a tougher time of it.

It’s also a big weekend for Cross Country stalwart Ryan Ripley, who rode the machine that factory pilot Kenny Gilbert normally rides while Gilbert recuperates following his testing injury. “This weekend proved a dream come true” Ryan owned up. “Not only was it a great privilege to ride Kenny's bike, but to score a double podium this weekend was a highlight of my riding career — I cannot thank Fred and the team enough for this incredible opportunity."

It was also a positive weekend for Iain Pepper on his return to the saddle after recent surgery on both wrists. “I had a good weekend, come to think of it, Iain admitted. “It took a bit of time to get back into my rhythm, especially in such tough positions, so I was happy to finish on Friday, but Saturday went well and I scored my best result of the season. “Thanks to my Pepson Plastics Husqvarna crew guys for all the support — it’s great to be back!"  

For Taki Bogiages, the weekend did not live up to expectations. “That was a tough weekend!” Taki admitted. “I had good time trails with second on Friday and third Saturday, but the track was harsh and rough and I took some serious strain after a harsh impact to my back, which forced me to retire late on Friday.  “I felt better and managed to race to fifth in OR2 on Saturday — not the results we had hoped for, but now we look forward to a fresh season next year.” 

“It was a difficult Cross Country year for Pepson Plastics Husqvarna Racing,” Husqvarna Motorcycles South Africa brand manager Fred Fensham concluded. “We had a few tough breaks with injury, with Kenny while leading the title race, while Taki was recovering through the year and Iain missed a couple of races too, but well done to the guys for putting their best foot forward. “Now we can look forward to starting fresh in 2020. "Well done all the same, guys!”