OTM MX riders have not only been successful at world and European level in the 2008 season but have also raked in a number of national titles in countries well known for their high level of competition and enthusiasm for the sport.
Red Bull KTM factory duo Tyla Rattray of South Africa and Britain's Tommy Searle dominated the MX2 international circuits and finished 1-2 in the world title and Sven Breugelmans of Belgium clinched the MX3 title. Young Valentin Teillet of France also sent a strong signal to the opposition that the next generation of champs is safe in KTM hands when he scooped up seven victories in the EMX2 and finished 142 points ahead of his nearest rival in the fight for the European title.
Nagl wins ADAC Red Bull Masters
Now, to close of the racing season, KTM has reaped a string of national titles to add to the honours list. Red Bull KTM factory rider Max Nagl wrapped up his rookie year with a strong finish to the season and victory in the final GP of world championship series in Faenza, Italy. KTM team boss Stefan Everts gave Nagl the task of gathering experience in his first year on the MX1 circuit and the German responded enthusiastically. By the end of the season Nagl had secured his reputation with his peers and was consistently out of the gates in turbo form. Now Nagl has won the title of the MX ADAC Red Bull Masters in Germany to round off a great season.
Barragan MX1 national champion in Spain
Jonathan Barragan, who piloted his KTM to fourth in the MX1 world championships has also won the national MX1 title at home in Spain. Barragan is confirmed as an MX1 KTM factory rider for the Team Silver Action in 2009 and fans will continue to enjoy his thrilling and highly competitive riding style.
Simpson takes MX2 UK national title
Shaun Simpson, who rode his KTM to fourth place in the world MX2 championship, has won the MX2 national title ahead of taking up his position as a factory rider in the Red Bull KTM squad for 2009. Simpson was onboard for KTM UK in the 2008 season and replaces fellow Briton Tommy Searle who races for KTM in the USA next season.
Jeremy van Horebeek is MX2 national champion in Netherlands
KTM can be further assured of orange supremacy in the next generation with the national title of Netherlands going to young Belgian rider Jeremy van Horebeek. Van Horebeek finished eighth in the MX2 world championship riding for the KTM supported team GP Juniors Team champ.
Continued success for KTM: Made in Austria
This string of successes for the Austrian manufacturer known as a leader in the manufacture of sports-oriented motorcycles are just the latest entries on the honours list at the company headquarters in Mattighofen, Austria. KTM Racing now looks forward to the MX 2009 racing season confident that riders onboard their machines will continue to race with spirit and bravery and reap glory for themselves and the entire Orange family.
Photographer: Archer R.
