The final round of the 2021 4X ProTour took place at Winterberg in Germany at the huge Dirtmasters festival. Due to Covid restrictions, this was Scott’s first ProTour race in a while so he was eager to get back. The race coming just 3 weeks after dislocating his elbow at World Championships certainly was not ideal, but thanks to the team at Core Clinics, he was in as good condition as he possibly could be.
The track this year was totally different from previous years. Scott had worked with the organiser and they had come up with a totally new layout. During first practice the riders were excited about the changes. Much more open than previous years meant that passing was going to be easier and the crowds would certainly be entertained.
Practice went well. Scott had the track dialled and looked good. His elbow was not hurting so all was looking good for the race. The track was now a lot longer so there were plenty of lines that needed dealing in.
Qualifying and the race took place on the same day, so riders had to be ready for a full day of action. Seeded number 1 into this event, Scott was the final rider to qualify. The gate dropped and Scott smashed a great run, carrying speed everywhere and looking good. It was fast enough for 4th position. He was happy and felt good going into racing.
Racing went well for Scott as he moved his way through to the semi finals.
In the semi final Scott unfortunately missed the start slightly and found himself in 3rd. He fought hard all the way but just could not find a way through. Crossing the finish line in 3rd, it wasn’t enough to move into the main final.
Scott was gutted to not make the final, but had to regroup quickly as the small final was ready to go. The small final sorts out 5th to 8th place positions, so Scott wanted that 5th place!
The gate dropped and this time Scott was on point. Taking the holeshot, Scott didn’t look back, checking out and taking the win. At the finish line, Scott said:
“It has certainly been an interesting 3 weeks! Dislocating my elbow at World Championships in Italy, racing 50 minutes later, then winning the Schwalbe British 4X Series 2 weeks ago and now finishing 5th today, it certainly shows the rollercoaster of emotions that pro riders have to deal with. I am really happy with my performance today. Doctors have all said I shouldn’t be racing, so I feel pretty proud of what we have achieved. Thank you to everyone for their support this year. It has been incredible.”
This result was a great end to an amazing season for Scott. Schwalbe 4X National Champion, Schwalbe 4X British Series Champion and HSBC British BMX Series 2nd overall. We will take that! Now it’s time to heal up, regroup and focus on 2022. Scott wants that World Championship title……..
Thank you to all our team partners for your support in 2021.
Images by BikeMail Order