Courtney Duncan retains MXW Women world title

Killer Kiwi Courtney Duncan (DRT Kawasaki) sensationally pulled back a four-point deficit to tie Holland’s Nancy Van De Ven (Ghidinelli Racing Yamaha) on points for the MXW Women title at today’s fifth and final round – the MXGP of Trentino – and retain the crown on a tie-break.
The pair have been battling for the championship since the drop of the gate at round one at Matterley Basin in March with Duncan taking four moto wins to Van De Ven’s two but the Dutch rider showing more consistency.
A narrow win in the opening moto from Larissa Papenmeier (Yamaha Racing 423) was a great start for Duncan as Van De Ven trailed home in fifth and third in race two behind Van De Ven and Italy’s Kiara Fontanesi (KTM) made sure of the championship.
“It was so close,” said Duncan. “Coming into the final round we knew it was going to be close. All the girls were riding really well and we were probably all put under the pump this weekend.
“I’m so grateful. I’ve had a lot of tough times so to come through and get this championship feels really good. A huge thanks to the team and everyone back home who supports me.”
The EMXOpen class was also in action and French series newcomer Jimmy Clochet (Kawasaki) threw a spanner in the works with a double win.
Estonia’s Karel Kutser (KTM) ran 9-3 for fifth overall and extended his series lead by a further three points after Finland’s Kim Savaste (137 KTM Motorsport) finished behind him.
British hopes were pinned on John Adamson (KTM) and Dan Thornhill (Cab Screens Deos Group Honda). Both were making their debut in the series and both showed good speed with Thornhill ending the day in 10th with 7-12 scores and Adamson running 6-DNF for 14th.