The factory team met for a concentrated pre-season training camp at Stefan's motocross school in Spain in January, an occasion for Everts to instill his "All for one and one for all "philosophy and to underline that he wants the riders to strive for excellent results but to also have fun doing it.
In the run-up to the opening competition in Valkenswaard, Netherlands the KTM Red Bull riders have not only consistently put in solid results in pre-season internationals but have also been meeting with Stefan for weekly training sessions in Belgium and France. "I am satisfied with the preparation," Everts said. "I think the results speak for themselves." All team members are in good health and spirits.
This year all KTM motocross factory riders will be wearing the KTM Leatt neck brace, a revolutionary new protection for the prevention of traumatic neck and spine injuries. The brace, which has been called the "helmet for the neck" has been developed according to a design concept of orthopedic surgeon Dr. Chris Leatt of South Africa.
David Philippaerts who was third in the MX2 World championships last season has his sights set on the MX1 title in 2007 while Jonathan Barragan is going for a top three place in the championship. Both are onboard KTM 450 SX-F machines. Durban-born Tyla Rattray took four Grand Prix victories and a total of eight podiums in 2006 for 4th position in the championships. The youngest factory team member Tommy Searle who will celebrate his 17th birthday in the mid 2007 season is recognized as one of the most outstanding young talents in motocross. Searle signed as a factory team member in 2006. Tyla and Tommy are riding KTM 250 SX-F machines.
"For me as Offroad Director it gave me a lot of pleasure to see how the team was put together and the cooperation with Stefan means we are better prepared than ever before," Beirer said. "I am very proud and I can't wait for the first race to start!"
The opening event in Valkenswaard, a race that tests riders over sandy conditions, is the first of 15 Grands Prix and is scheduled for April 1. The competition winds up back in the Netherlands on September 2 in Lierop after sweeping through European venues, plus overseas races in Tyla's hometown of Durban, South Africa and in Sugo, Japan.
Main Photo: David Philippaerts
Credit: Jonty Edmunds
