The COMMENCAL BMX PROJECT travelled to Scotland for the World Championships. A medal on one side and an injury on the other, Laura Smulders and Sylvain André had very different experiences at this one…
Laura bordered on perfection throughout the day of racing. She won all her heats until the semi-final where she finished second which ensured a good start position for the final. Surprised at the start by Alise Willoughby, Laura found herself stuck in the first corner. In third place, she used her explosiveness in the last line of whoops to get back in touch and she managed to go inside of Willoughby to win the silver medal behind Bethany Shriever, the Brit who had the perfect race.
“I am extremely happy and proud right now! There’s been a lot of emotion because this year has not been easy so far because of some personal things. This weekend makes me even more proud of the performance I put in and my second place behind Bethany, the fastest today. Thanks to the whole team for your support!” Laura Smulders
Sylvain André did not have the same success as his teammate. However, everything had started well with a win in one heat and in the round of 16. Unfortunately, the day ended in the quarter finals for the Frenchman. Sandwiched at the start, Sylvain clashed with Swiss rider Cédric Butti on landing the first jump. After hitting the ground hard, Sylvain quickly returned home to his family, but not without first reassuring his fans and congratulating Romain Mahieu, Arthur Pilard and Jauris Daudet for their historic hat-trick.
The entire COMMENCAL team wishes him a speedy recovery and hopes to see him back at races very soon.
The COMMENCAL BMX PROJECT will be back from 23rd to 25th September in Sarrians for the French round of the World Cup.
Rider : Laura Smulders
Photos : Nico van Dartel & Kim Plee
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