First competition attracts 14 riders

After a lapse of nine years, trials bikers are back at the Assoċjazzjoni Sport Muturi (ASM) racetrack at Ta’ Qali.

A trials nursery was set up some months ago with the full support of the ASM Committee. The training and tuition sessions, held every Saturday afternoon, have attracted a good number of youngsters.

Veteran John Bonello, a former trials champion with local and overseas experience, is in charge of the trials bikers sessions. He is being assisted by his brother Eddie. ASM is engaged in talks to bring over technical coaches for the trials and motocross riders.

Following several hours of tuition, ASM organised the first trials bikers competition last weekend. Fourteen riders took part in the competition which comprised six sections in different locations around the ASM premises.

Trials biking is not a speed event but a test in overcoming a number of natural or man-made obstacles.

Penalty points are handed to the rider for lowering a foot or both over the obstacles on track. The rider has to concentrate hard and find his way through to make a clean pass.

The motorcycles for this type of sport are very lightweight, powerful, drive at slower speeds and capable of climbing almost impossible obstacles.

Class A was won by veteran Robert Caruana. He lost 17 points during the six sections on the day. The promising Nick Farrugia, on a Montesa, placed second with 20 points. Third place went to Carmel Borg, on a Sherco, who accumulated 20 penalty points during the 18 lap sections.

David Dimech, on a Beta Trials bike, claimed top spot in Class B with 17 points. Wayne Zahra, on his GasGas, was second on 21 points while newcomer Emanuel Camilleri, on a Sherco, finished third with 25 points.