The 89th ISDE kicks off on Monday. PHOTO COURTESY FIM
The 89th FIM International Six Days Enduro kicks off on Monday in San Juan, Argentina, where over 550 riders from thirty different nations will face five long and demanding days of riding – covering up to 160 miles each day across the surrounding countryside before wrapping up on the sixth and final day with the traditional motocross race on the nearby ASER motocross circuit.
France, the defending champs, is once again the pre-race favorites, boasting two of this year’s FIM Enduro World Champions, however, the United States, which finished second last year in Sardinia, goes into the race with one of its best chances ever at taking the top prize. This year’s U.S. World Trophy team, consisting of Mike Brown, Thad Duvall, Charlie Mullins, Zach Osborne, Taylor Robert and Kailub Russell, are hoping to come away with the US squad’s best finish ever.
The French will be tough, with FIM Enduro 1 World Champion Christophe Nambotin (KTM) and FIM
Enduro 2 World Champion Pela Renet (Hsq) competing, however, Kailub Russell is hot off a record performance at the Ironman GNCC, while Taylor Robert recently won his first AMA EnduroCross final. The rest of the US squad is in good shape and ready to bring home a top performance in honor of fallen team captain Kurt Caselli.
Australia is another nation who continue to close the gap to the French each year. Hampered by mistakes in 2013, they still managed to finish fourth and will be keen to turn that position into a podium result this year.
Add in Spain, Argentina, Belgium, Germany and Chile and competition for a top five result will be very close.
In the Junior ranks, defending champions France face one of their toughest challenges to date. Aiming for their fourth consecutive class victory, the French will be pushed hard by highly motivated teams from the United States and Australia. With both nations favouring the dry terrain that Argentina will offer, the fight for victory will be fierce. Sweden, Argentina, Chile, Germany and South Africa will not be far behind.
Out to retain their title won in Sardinia, Australia are clear favourites to win the FIM Women’s World Trophy competition. Hoping to mix things up, Canada and the United States will be looking for a strong performance too.
The 2014 ISDE takes place in San Juan, Argentina on 3rd to 8th November inclusive.
