KX energy trials rider, Michael Brown made a great start to the 2012 FIM World Trials Championship this weekend, recording a 9th and 7th place in the two-day round. The small village of La Bresse in France, located near the German/Swiss boarder hosted the opening round of the series and provided spectators with an incredible display of extreme motorcycle trials. At the top of the World Pro class, Spanish riders Adam Raga (Gas Gas) and Toni Bou (Montesa) were the riders to take victories this weekend.
Fresh off the back of his British Championship victory, Michael was eager to make every section count in the international event. Aiming to break into the Top 5 this year, Michael faces tough competition, with six major riders all fighting for the same goal. On Saturday, Michael finished the day with 49 marks, the same as Italian Gas Gas rider, Matteo Grattarola, but it was Matteo who finished with the 'most cleans' to clinch 8th position ahead of British rider's James Dabill (Beta) and Jack Challoner (Beta) who finished 6th and 7th respectively.
Disappointed he was unable to feature in the 'Top 6', Sunday provided Michael the platform he needed to improve upon his previous performance. Two laps of 20 gave Michael the 7th place he was searching for, and comfortably too, with nearest competitor Loris Gubian a distant 10 marks behind. Unfortunately the Scarborough rider was unable to break into the Top Six territory, but his efforts this weekend have proven he has what it takes to challenge against the best.
Michael commented after the event, "The World Championship is just so different to the British Championship, especially with the rule changes back home, fortunately I have made time to practice in both Spain and the UK, and managed to strike the balance right. There is no doubt that this year is going to be tough, there's so many good riders out there, especially those fighting for 6th place"
Michael will head back to Scarborough for a few days before driving up to Scotland for the world famous Scottish Six Day Trial which starts on the 4th May. Despite never winning the Scottish Trial, Michael has, on more than one occasion, worn the iconic yellow number board which identifies the leader. Michael will be looking to add the Scottish Six Day Trial to his trophy cabinet this year.