Podium for Metcalfe and Penrite Honda in the final round of the MX Nationals!

Podium for Metcalfe and Penrite Factory Honda in the final round of the MX Nationals!

The 2019 MX Nationals concluded in Australia’s Sunshine Coast, Queensland.  The sandy track proved challenging as it became rough and treacherous.  Metcalfe claimed another podium finish and placed 5^th overall in the championship. Round 9 was held on Saturday with round 10 on Sunday.

“The weekend was tough, the track didn’t give you an inch of rest and the 30 minute races were really testing.  On Saturday we went in the wrong direction for the first two races, in the third and final moto we found some pace and stability” said Metcalfe.

Metcalfe finished 4^th overall in round 9, this was his fourth top five overall in a row.  The team worked overnight to improve the setup of the bike in sand for the final round. The team’s director Yarrive Konsky understands why testing had to continue throughout the second half of the season. 

“It’s difficult to continue to change the setup; however it’s acceptable when you consider what Brett has gone through. We lost 4 months with injuries.  I am happy that each change improved his result which is a positive” said Konsky.

The final round was hard fought by all riders.  Two days on the sand of Coolum was physically and mentally demanding.  Metcalfe gated well in the first of two races.  He made quick passes on his way to second place.

“The first race was solid.  I made some passes and was able to get within 2 seconds of Todd Waters throughout the race.  We gapped 3^rd and 4^th by over 20 seconds.  The bike felt great and the team made some massive gains” said Metcalfe.

Race 2 would prove most challenging.  Metcalfe came through from a mid-park start to 4^th in the opening laps.  Whilst chasing down the lead pack he crashed. He resumed the race and finished 6^th which gave him the points for third overall. 

“The final round was solid for us, we found something and we were competitive.  Overall this season is difficult to accept. I am happy with the second half where we claimed 3 podium finishes. We need to take the positives from motocross and learn from the negatives” concluded Metcalfe.

The team will now turn its attention to Supercross. 

Photo credit – foremost media