In Bréal Sous Monfort, close to Rennes (France), the second and third round of the European Trial Championship are kicking off this week-end. The venue is very well known in the world of trial, because the organizers have already hosted important world events in the past: in 1994, 2003 and 2011, in addition to a Trial des Nations in 2006.
A large private area with many rocks and steep hills is the place where 12 sections have been drawn, all of them easily reachable by the spectators, just walking inside this area.
Riders will face two laps each day.
After the first round, held in Pietramurata, Italy, over one month ago, in every class the situation is quite uncertain.
In the Europe class, young Spanish Miquel Gelabert (Sherco, in the photo by Mario Candellone) was partially the surprise since at his first race in these European series he gained soon the first step of the podium, beating his compatriot Francesc Moret (Vertigo) who fought until the last section before yielding to Italian rider Gianluca Tournour (Gas Gas) – European champion in the previous season.
Of course the next two rounds could represent a chance of revenge for Moret and both Spaniards will start with odds in their favor. But English riders have progressed a lot in this period as they increased their experience attending four rounds of World Championship. And we cannot forget that this year there also are many French riders who want to cut a fine figure in front of their public. So everything seems possible.
It is complicate to hazard a forecast in Junior class, too. Previous winner British Jack Peace (Gas Gas) had a very smooth lead on Italian Luca Corvi (Scorpa). In this category Italian and British riders shared the top positions.
Not less uncertain the Over 40 class, always rich of international good skilled riders belonging to recent past. Eyes on German Markus Kipp (Beta) who had a strong start topping rostrum in Pietramurata.
Besides these three classes where riders can obtain precious points to clinch the titles, there are as usual two classes for local riders without an European license: International 1 and 2.
Photos and videos on the first round at the following links:
http://www.phototrial.it/2016/europe/1-pietrap.php
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gv-SWvdFew
