After the events in Belgium and Great Britain, this Sunday the French Trial GP takes place; the third consecutive race in a busy month of July for the riders of Repsol Honda Team. It will be the ski resort of La Mongie, in the heart of Tourmalet that is to host the event, where today the eighteenth stage of the Tour de France passes through the very same venue. The two races coinciding in the same place, presented a challenge for the team, forcing the team truck and the mechanics to arrange its arrival in the Pyrenees, before the legendary cycle race passes.
Toni Bou’s victory in Britain last Sunday takes his victory tally to 62 and makes him the second most honoured rider in world championship history surpassing fellow-countryman Jordi Tarres, with 61 wins. British rider Dougie Lampkin holds the all-time record with 99 triumphs.
Bou will be looking to lengthen July’s spell of victories, which have stretched his lead over nearest rival Adam Raga to ten points in the overall championship standings. The rider edges ever closer to the season’s main objective; an eighth world championship title. Yet, in spite of widening the distance at the top of the leader board, little can be taken for granted and Toni remains well aware that the title could go right to the line.
Team-mate Takahisa Fujinami will likewise be eyeing up the podium after a noteworthy display in the British GP, and shall be looking for maximum performance as the Montesa Cota 4RT takes to the mountains in France.
 |
I’m arriving in France at a good moment. The last four races have gone really well. When we arrived in Italy, we were behind in the championship, and now we are ten points clear. This French GP will be equally important for us. We will be hoping to continue the winning streak - that’s our main objective - but if we can’t due to the quality of the opposition, then we will settle for a podium place and try not to concede too many points. To not give anything away is our aim, so that we can have a good summer and prepare for the two races in Spain – the last GP of the year - which will be decisive. The title will be fought and won there, although it’ll be a lot easier with a win here in France. |
 |
The championship is drawing to a close, but there are still three important races to go, and I’ll have to give it everything in spite of having taken a knock on the knee in England, which caused me a bit of trouble. From now on, every race will be battle for a podium place. I hope to be able to put in a good performance in France, but I don’t know what the sections will be like - maybe like those of Andorra or Isola 2000 - but I believe in the bike and am hoping to lift a trophy once again. |