Whilst the off season is sadly amongst us, Rafe is squeezing in a few races before a well earned rest over the festive period. Hampshire Youth held a fun race day at Wroxton, a track which many are pleased to see back on the race calendar.
Rafe headed out for qualifying and secured the fastest lap, giving him the top gate pick.
Race 1 – Still getting to grips with the new bike, Rafe rocketed up the start straight and secured the Holeshot!! However, unbeknown to Rafe the choke had been left on and the bike decided to bog over a big jump, causing Rafe to have a big crash. It took him several laps to recover and then the bike wouldn’t start. Rafe called an end to the race.
Race 2 – Having suffered a big crash, Rafe was nervous to get back on the bike, but he dug deep. The race plan being, to have a few steadily laps to build trust back in the bike and go from there. Rafe got a good start and settled into the first 2 laps, on the third lap he wanted the race win, so he increased his lap speed and took the race lead. The riders in second and third, put on an impressive battle, which meant they gained on Rafe slightly. However, Rafe saw this and kept a sensible distance and brought home the race win.
Race 3 – Having built trust back in the bike and having a good second race, the plan was to aim for the holeshot and lead to the end. Rafe focused on the start and visualized a fluid consistent ride. The gate dropped and like lightening, Rafe stormed up the start straight securing the holeshot. He focused on finding the clear lines and led the whole race, putting in an impressive gap between him and second place.
The crash in race 1 knocked Rafe’s confidence, but his resilience and determination turned the day around. With one race left before the end of the season, Rafe is looking forward to a break but excited for 2026 being aboard the NORA CRS Team. He has a confirmed ride at the The NORA British Cup, The NORA Kids Master, Bridgestone and just awaiting confirmation for the MXGB.
Thank you to each and every sponsor, NORA CRS, Coach Robb and family members for their support this year.
