GL12 Racing KTM riders Mike Kras and James Dunn kicked off the 2018 EMX300 series with rock-solid rides at the opening round at Valkenswaard in Holland at the weekend.
In testing conditions with sub-zero temperatures and snow, the pair ran 1-2 around the first turn in both motos to demonstrate just how strong their Ton van Grinsven-built engines are.
Racing on home turf, Mike finished second in moto one and in the closing stages of race two was pushing for a pass on the leader that would have given him the overall.
Unfortunately, a small mistake put him on the ground and he dropped to third in the race which cost him second overall on a tie-break.
James looked strong and confident for fourth overall with 4-4 race finishes.
Mike Kras
“Valkenswaard, once again a third place for me ā Lady Luck was not on my side,” said Kras.
“In timed practice we had a transponder issue and I had only one lap to go out and do my thing ā but it worked because I was on pole again.
“I holeshot race one but I rode a little too tight and couldnāt repass Greg Smets who was leading so I took home a safe second.
“I got another holeshot in the second moto and the whole race was a battle for the lead but I made a small mistake, tipped over and finished third overall.
“I am now looking forward to Spain this weekend.”
James Dunn
“It was great to get the season under way at Valkenswaard but cold weather conditions and snow made it a tough one,” said Dunn.
“In qualifying I put in a good lap early on in the session giving me sixth gate pick for the races.
“Both motos I had great starts, coming round the first turn second just behind my team-mate ā Ton has built us some strong engines this year!
“I was riding solid both motos with hardly any mistakes but my intensity wasnāt quite there to run with the top three this weekend.
“Still, it was a good, consistent start to the season and I can build on it this weekend in Spain!”
Bob Buchanan ā Team Principal
“At the season-opener itās always interesting seeing where everyone is at,” said Buchanan.
“We did AX to be sharp and the boys started 1-2 in both races proving they were ready and Tonās bikes are strong.
“Mike was fast and didnāt fade ā Ando only caught him in the second because he slid off so heās all good for the season.
“Jimmy D is Jimmy D ā heāll show us what heās got this weekend against the four-strokes.”
Image: SEVEN ONE Pictures
