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2006 Honda QRA ACU British Quad MX Championship John Mitchell Wins British Quad MX Championship Team ATV World / Yamaha new #1 |
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After the dramatic events at Drumclog two weeks ago, John Mitchell only needed 10 points out of an available 50 to win the 2006 Honda QRA ACU British Quad MX Championship. He was taking no chances; this weekend was all about winning the championship. |
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The venue was at Waggadon Farm, located deep in the Devonshire countryside. Due to heavy rain it looked like a mud bath on Sunday morning but by 10am the rain had stopped for an hour and the sun crept out from behind the clouds. |
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John took it steady in the qualification stages, aware that he only needed to finish 12 th or above in the first race to become champion. The heavy rain had made the track feel like an ice rink, which resulted in difficult riding conditions. Race one took place in the afternoon and started with a tangle in the first corner involving about eight riders. |
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From there Paul Winrow led the chasing pack of Jason Macbeth and Willy Waggot. With such a slippery track, John decided to just go steady and bag the points. He kept out of people’s way and cleared the line in seventh place. But this wasn’t important as he had secured the number one position and achieved another milestone in what has been a masterful display of riding this season. John was mobbed by well wishers who ventured onto the muddy track to congratulate the new champion. |
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When John got back to the ATV World pits he was greeted by fellow riders, supporters and of course the ATV World team, all wearing the traditional “see you jimmy” hats. Some looking better than others! In another great gesture of sportsmanship, Paul Winrow presented John with a signed number one plate inscribed with the hopeful message “only on loan”; he then put on his hat and joined the crowd that had gathered to toast John for his successful season. |
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With the championship top three decided, the riders lined up for the final race of the season. It was Paul who took the lead as everybody battled for good overtaking places. The track was very slick and 1 liney, making it almost impossible to pass. This made it even more incredible to watch as John surged through the leading pack and caught Paul up to battle for first and second.
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Unfortunately, John sustained his only puncture throughout the whole season on the remaining few laps and dropped back to finish fourth. |
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After the podium celebrations from the final race were completed, it was the official award ceremony for the top three. Jason Macbeth taking third place, Paul Winrow in second and Team ATV World / Yamaha’s John Mitchell… the new number one! |
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This year John has smashed many records and gone on to win the championship despite having one round cancelled. The ATV World Yamaha YFZ450 has been flawless with no DNF’s. This outstanding machine has proven its true reliability and durability. |
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John thanked all his fans, sponsors, family, team and in particular Martin Fletcher and Ian Malpas of ATV World who have been with him throughout the 2006 season. |
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More Pictures from Round 8. |
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The morning practice looked more like a mud bath. |
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John had no DNF's all season! |
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Dave Baldwin displayed superb passing skill in race two |
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It was Stefan Murphy's first ride in the Championship and his first point! |
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John pours a drink for his ATV World mechanic Ian Malpas |
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John has a steady race one to become British Champion 2006 |
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from left to right, Paul Winrow, John Mitchell and Jason Macbeth |
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Paul Holmes first year in the British Championship saw him take a respectable 17th place. |
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Pile up on first corner in race one. |
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Carolyn Fletcher did a superb job of the catering for the ATV World Yamaha team |
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Watch out Paul! Your going the wrong way!!! |
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