ACU Goldspeed British Quadcross Championship, Round Six, 2nd October 2011, Milton MX Park
John Mitchell guided his ATV World Yamaha Laeger’s YZF450R to his third British title this weekend at the final round of the 2011 ACU Goldspeed British Quadcross Championship.
Held by ACU Events at the Milton Park MX track, riders endured three 25 minute plus two lap races in record breaking October heat.
Having already won four of the previous five rounds, John only needed to secure four points, giving him an unassailable lead ahead of his only championship contender Paul Holmes. Having made a good start in race one and avoiding a near crash, John settled into the race and kept a comfortable pace ensuring he got the points he needed. The ATV World Yamaha rider finished in fifth taking the British Championship title with two races still to go, also bagging the 450 Championship along the way.
John commented: “It’s been the perfect season. I’m absolutely over the moon and delighted I’ve done it. I knew I needed just four points and wanted to make sure I got them in the first race. My ATV World Laeger’s Yamaha YZF450R has been absolutely faultless and just incredible to ride. The guys at ATV World have spent a long time developing and testing this machine to ensure we had a good chance for the title this year.”
Fresh from celebrating with his team having been handed the number one plate from Paul Winrow, John made a steady start to race two. Then his competitive spirit ignited and he began to chase the win. Passing his way into lead position, John found his rhythm and took first place.
In the final race of the season, John was happy to take a steady pace and without incident moved up the pack to third, finishing third overall on the day. Particularly impressive as he was suffering from huge blisters he developed during last weekend’s gruelling Quadcross of Nations event in Germany.
Having seen his rider wrap up the 2011 championship, ATV World Yamaha team manager Martin Fletcher said: “John is one of the most impressive riders I’ve ever seen. He shows great technical skill and a raw desire to win. You can’t win championships without it and I’m thrilled he has won it for a third time. He is also a great character both on and off the track. He’s well liked by everyone and is a fantastic representative for the sport. This year we have worked hard to ensure John had a machine capable of winning. Together with the help of our manufacturers and sponsors we succeeded in getting a highly competitive quad which gave us 100% reliability. It’s been a long season and now we can take a step back and enjoy another successful season for John and the team.”
The statistics say it all: 37 races this season (in all competitions). 24 wins, nine 2nd places, two 3rd places. John finished every race. 14 Rounds and an impressive 11 overall wins.
Reflecting on the day’s events, John commented: ”I’ve wrapped up the 2011 season as British Champion and Scottish Champion. All that’s left to say is thanks to all the people who have supported me throughout. To the whole support team at ATV World, my wife Ann-Marie, Dad and rest of my family. Thanks to my sponsors and of course all the event organisers for putting on an excellent series.”
Thanks again for all the support from sponsors who along with their outstanding products have helped develop a championship winning team for the 2011 season.