NORA CRS Development Team rider Rafe Symons delivered a masterful performance on the national stage, conquering a stacked field to claim the overall victory in the highly competitive SW85 class.
The prestigious event brought together 11 clubs from across the country, each putting forward their top three elite riders alongside a select wildcard. Handpicked as the crucial wildcard entry for the Hampshire Youth MX Club, Symons proved to be the ultimate secret weapon, outclassing a massive 44-rider grid across four grueling motos.
Qualifying
Symons wasted no time finding his rhythm on the track, showcasing the raw speed and technical precision honed through the NORA CRS Development Programme. He laid down a blistering pace in timed qualifying to secure the second-fastest lap time, locking in a prime gate drop for the upcoming races.
Moto Breakdown
Race 1: Relentless Pressure
- Result: P2
- The Action: Starting strong, Symons slotted directly into second place. He hitched himself to the rear wheel of the race leader, applying intense, unwavering pressure for the entirety of the moto. While unable to find a safe way through, his mature and strategic riding secured a vital P2 finish to kickstart his weekend.
Race 2: Squeezing Into the Lead
- Result: P1
- The Action: Looking for redemption, Symons grabbed an excellent launch out of the gate. Spotting a microscopic gap, he expertly squeezed his machine into the lead through the opening corners. From there, he dictated the pace from the front, controlling the race flawlessly to cross the line for his first victory of the event.
Race 3: The Fightback
- Result: P2
- The Action: Faced with adversity early on, Symons found himself emerging from the first turn in third place. Refusing to settle, he put his head down and began slicing through the field. His fitness and racecraft paid off as he systematically worked his way up into second, securing another crucial haul of points.
Race 4: Drama, Back-Markers, and Ultimate Glory
- Result: P1 & Overall Victory
- The Action: The final moto of the weekend was a true test of drama and resilience. Symons rocketed off the line to take an early lead. He looked completely in control until the race leaders encountered heavy back-markers. Caught up in the traffic, Symons made a minor mistake, allowing the second-place rider to slip past and relegate him to P2.
However, drama struck after the chequered flag. The race winner was handed a post-race penalty for an infraction on the track. Inheriting the well-deserved win, Symons was officially awarded the Race 4 victory, sealing the overall weekend championship in spectacular fashion.
This milestone victory stands as a testament to Symons’ exceptional consistency, race fitness, and elite-level mindset, further cementing his reputation as one of the UK’s brightest young motocross prospects.
