Jed Beaton made an impressive start to his career in the FIM World MXGP Motocross Championship as he clinched sixth place in the British GP which opened the series.
The Matterley Basin arena was in prime condition as the Australian rounded the first turn seventh in race one and within ten minutes he had advanced smoothly into the top six. With ten minutes remaining he had bridged the gap to the rider ahead of him to move into fifth, a superb performance on his debut in the premier MXGP class.
The F&H Kawasaki Racing Team rider was again impressive in race two, quickly making a couple of significant passes to already move into the top six again on the opening lap. Concentrating on riding consistently as the low late-afternoon sun cast dramatic shadows over the deeply-rutted terrain he surrendered one position mid-moto but his sixth place in the overall GP classification was never in danger.
“Obviously I’m pretty happy with my day,” Beaton enthused. “I didn’t know what to expect coming here so it’s been pretty crazy to finish sixth first-time in MXGP. I think everyone always likes riding this track and I felt relaxed all day, got two good starts, rode my own race each time and tried to stay solid for fifth and seventh. For me I actually feel a lot more comfortable on the 450 and am really enjoying riding it; it’s more to handle but I’m a big guy and the little bit more power is good for me. “
Beaton will be back in action next weekend for the MXGP of Lombardia at Mantova in Italy.
