19. August 2024
Race Report

SHR Motorsports defies sandy hell in MXGP comeback

After a short break, SHR Motorsports returned to the MXGP paddock on home soil in the Netherlands. For Mike Bolink, the local hero, the Grand Prix in Arnhem was a special opportunity to prove himself in front of his home crowd. However, the notorious sandy track proved to be a huge challenge even for the best riders on the grid.

On Saturday, SHR pilots Petr Polak and Mike Bolink used the free practice and qualifying sessions to become familiar with the deep and treacherous sandy track. Despite the challenging conditions, Polak secured 11th place in the wildcard group, while Bolink finished 13th. These starting positions were promising for the upcoming qualifying race, which tested the nerves of all riders with a fully packed gate.

In the RAM qualifying race on Saturday, both SHR riders were able to improve once again. Petr Polak showed a solid performance and finished the race in 26th place, while Mike Bolink, who held his own despite strong competition, finished in 33rd place. The first day of racing ended in summery temperatures and the riders were able to recover before the decisive Sunday.

Race Sunday then brought the ultimate test for the two riders. In the first race, both Polak and Bolink had difficulties at the start. The start was especially unlucky for Bolink, as he went down. However, the local hero showed fighting spirit, quickly collected himself and bravely fought his way forwards. In the end, he finished 33rd again, confirming his performance from the qualifying race. Polak got off to a slightly better start and once again secured 26th place.

After an intensive phase of wrenching by the mechanics, both riders were motivated for the second race. This time things went much better for both riders. Bolink, who finally felt comfortable on his home soil, found his rhythm and drove up to 24th place at a constant pace. Polak went one better and crossed the finish line in a strong 23rd place, with both riders improving their performance in the final race of the weekend.

After the race, Mike Bolink was satisfied: “I finally felt comfortable on my home turf in the last race and was able to achieve my best GP result. It was a great home Grand Prix for me with all my fans and friends here. Now I’m preparing for the last two ADAC races so that I can capitalise on my good performances from the weekend.”

Petr Polak also drew a positive summary: “An intensive weekend with a very tough track, but the track is the same for everyone, so I tried to get the best out of it. I was always able to confirm my results over the course of the weekend and improved a few places in the final race. Thanks to everyone for a great weekend. ”