Raymon van der Biezen Race Report UCI BMX Supercross Papendal 2013
Jul 02, 2013
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Three weeks after my knee surgery, I have to be happy with my top 10 ranking at the UCI BMX Supercross at Papendal. 2,5 weeks ago the UCI BMX Supercross was held at Papendal. Like other years the organization put in a lot of work to turn our training track into a real Supercross race track. They created the perfect Supercross vibe for all riders and fans/visitors. The track looked awesome and felt good too because we adjusted some jumps which improved the safety of the track. My knee felt quite good but a race is always way more intense compared to the regular training, so I had to wait and see how my knee would react.
The preparation felt good so I had a lot of confidence during the Timetrial on Saturday. My first Timetrial was ok, especially because I had to adjust a lot during my lap because of the strong wind, it made me realize that there was room for improvement.
After my first lap I was ranked 3rd so I had to prep myself for the Superfinal. The top 16 riders ride the Timetrial Superfinal for some extra ranking points and gate pick. Unfortunately I messed up this round. After a perfect first straight I got surprised by the wind on the second straight which caused a missed landing. Because of that I could not jump the full pro-section so I lost a lot of time there. I had to accept my disappointing 9th place.
On Sunday the day began with an extended photo/signature session with the fans. A lot of fans showed up which was great. After the warm-up I was in the riders introduction, hearing the fans cheer for me gave me real goose bumps and adrenalin. I was ready to race.
I won 2 out of 3 motos, which gave me a lot of confidence. In the quarterfinal I finished second which was ok but it really took a lot of my energy. In my semi final I had a really bad gate, so two other riders closed the door. I had to get back in front but it was hard. The race was really good, all riders gave everything they got. Unfortunately I get 5th place in my semi, which was very disappointing.
I just missed the final at Papendal but looking back; three weeks before the race I was on the operating table and up to the semi-final racing felt good, this makes me realize that I can’t complain. The event was great, 4000 visitors and of course the win of my teammate. I want to thank all the fans for their support. Last weekend it was the first race of the 3 Nations Cup in Valkenswaard. I really wanted to race well but during the warm-up at the track I hurt my lower back. I had a bad landing after a jump, fortunately I didn’t crash but it was the end of that race for me. This week I went to the physiotherapist every day, my back Is improving but I have to take it easy because next week the National Championship is being held in Heiloo and I have to be fit and ready again!
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.