It was up to only Ivo Monticelli (Beta RX450) to stand up for the MRT Racing Team Beta Factory. The rider started the weekend by setting the 16th fastest time in timed practice. In qualifying he got off to a good start and finished in a promising 15th position. On Sunday, luck was not on his side. In the first heat he was forced to make a hard comeback and finished in 16th position after a violent crash on the first lap. In the second race he was forced to retire in the final while deservedly occupying 12th position. 22nd in the day’s Absolute, Monticelli holds 21st position in the Championship Standings.
IVO MONTICELLI: “I had a positive weekend in Latvia. I am happy with the way I run because compared to the previous races my pace was better. On Saturday I closed the qualifying session in 15th position even though the suspension set-up was not perfect. Before the titled heats though, thanks to the help of the KYB technicians, we made some changes that gave me a better feeling in the seat. In the warm-up I got the 9th fastest time but unfortunately on the first lap of race one I came into contact with an opponent on a long jump and we both crashed. I also lost time restarting because the bikes were stuck together. Once I got back into the race I started to make a comeback and finished 16th. In the second race I got off to a better start and in a few laps climbed to 12th place, but unfortunately, I was forced to retire. Physically I felt better and although I was never very fast in the sand on this occasion, I think I defended myself well”.
