The new Pepson Plastics Motul Husqvarna off-road racing team enjoyed a mixed weekend at the unique Live Lesotho Double Header South African Cross Country and SA National Enduro Motorcycle Championships races near Maseru over the weekend. It was a great weekend for the team’s over-30 Senior class rider Achim Bergman, who delivered a fourth and a third in the two weekend races, while Taki Bogiages rode to fifth in OR2 Friday’s Cross Country race, where Ryan Ripley and Iain Pepper both found trouble.
Achim Bergmann was delighted to ride to an untroubled fourth in Friday’s Cross Country pipe opener, before getting back on his Pepson Plastics Motul Husqvarna to deliver a fine podium third in the Enduro on Sunday. “Thank you Live Lesotho for an incredible weekend of racing and thanks to my new team for making it all happen,” Achim admitted. “That was a Great start to both my national off-road racing seasons — I am delighted with a fourth and a third in each of my classes over the weekend.”
It was also a good outing for Taki Bogiages, who sped to fifth in OR2 in Friday’s Cross Country race. “I’m happy with a top six in my first race for Pepson Plastics Motul Husqvarna Racing,” Taki confirmed. “We enjoyed a great weekend at a fantastic race — thanks to Live Lesotho for a special initiative, my Husqvarna performed splendidly throughout and I am satisfied with sixth — bring on the rest of the season!”
Ryan Ripley’s weekend started well enough, but he was forced to stop with gearbox issues. “I had a great run on my Pepson Plastics Motul Husqvarna and I was happy with my pace among some pretty quick open class rivals, but it ended up being an early shower for me when I had some transmission trouble. “No matter — that’s just racing, but special thanks to my great team — I can’t wait for the next race!”
Team principal, over-40 Masters rider Iain Pepper opted to stop and manage his riders after the time trial Friday morning. “The lads rode brilliantly,” Pepper pointed out. “I am so happy for Achim — he delivered two consistent rides to score well in both races, Taki rode like a star and it’s just a pity that Ryan hit trouble — next time lad! “Our next SA Cross Country national is in Kwazulu Natal on 18 April, with the Enduro guys next up in Port Elizabeth on 14 March — see you there!”
