It was a weekend of learning for Big Wheel 85cc rider Jesse James at FatCat Moto Parc for the second round of the NORA92 British Cup. With this being the first time for Jesse racing on a sand track it was set to be an educational weekend for him. Read all about the weekend below from Jesse’s perspective.

We headed to Round 2 of the NORA92 British Cup this weekend at FatCat Moto Parc. Having never raced on a sand track before I knew I was gong to be in for an education. The weather was really hot which made for really difficult conditions especially when the track was changing every single outing.

Qualifying – This started out ok the track was quite damp had a couple of wobbles tried to put some fast laps in but I think my nerves took over so I qualified in 20th which I wasn’t very happy with but that’s something I need to work on.

Race 1 – The start straight is really short at this track so in my ultimate wisdom took the bike out wide and it just didn’t pay off I spent the start of the race playing catch up, which was my down fall. I hit a jump and landed incorrectly ended up in the sand. Medics came and advised me that I shouldn’t continue so I ended up with a DNF.

Race 2 – Got a much better start this time settled in to the race aiming to stay in the top 15. The heat was relentless the track was so dry and dusty I feel like I rode very safe because after the first race I didn’t want to come off again. I finished that race in 16th.

Race 3 – Sunday started and it was really really hot. The race went as it should, I felt like I spent more time trying to keep the bike straight on the track the back end kept sliding out, but that is sand for you and ended the face with another 16th.

Race 4 – Last Race of the weekend I really wanted to put in a better performance in this one. It was not meant to be. I lost the front brake on the bike so I think I went into safe mode. I was really disappointed in myself only managing 19th.

I finished 23rd overall, I could have been in the top 20 but having a DNF ruined that. As they say points win prizes. In closing I found this weekend really difficult with the heat, the track conditions changing all the time and the sand I’m still picking out of my toes.

Big Shout out to Gemma, Andy and Darren for the support this weekend trackside and a very special thank you to Joe Clayton (Team Coach) who was giving advice all weekend and supporting the team. As they say onwards and upwards to the next round of Cotswolds Club Championship where I’m really looking forward to some good results. Thanks to everyone involved in NORA CRS for keeping the wheels turning.

WE ARE NORA CRS!