Racing On Cyril Despres Team In the Sardinia Italian Rally

Sardinia This rally although technical and challenging was great fun.

First I was on Cyril Despres Factory KTM team; we had the full complement of mechanics support people and parts as all factory teams. Cyril personally got involved in bike setup, when he was finished I would say this was one of the best bikes I had ridden. In addition Natalie and my daughter Chelsea were both in the event and traveled with the support team. Cyril’s manager Chris Evans ran the show, what a difference when the team is managed by a professional.

I thought I had gone to heaven we had great bikes; there were no cars in the Rally. The event does not have sand or dunes it is basically just a very long 6 Day Enduro. It is a very technical rally with some difficult navigation.

The things that really stand out in my mind about this event were how difficult the liaison sections were, most days the Liaison were harder than the special.  The day’s liaisons were five to six hours of very difficult off road riding.

The other thing that stands out was how much I learned from Cyril.

And how great and fun an event the Italians put on.

Overall the Rally was a lot of fun I ended up finishing 14^th.