June 21, 2009
Double victory for KTM's Steffi Laier for dream home GP win at Teutschenthal
KTM-Sportmotorcycles AG,
Mattighofen, Austria,
After Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Steffi Laier sailed through the chequered flag for her home GP victory in Teutschenthal she said it had been "a perfect weekend".
Laier, who captured the lead in the Women's World Championship and the coveted red plate, laid the foundation for her overall GP win in the first race on Saturday evening and on Sunday morning went out and finished the job. She led a trio of German riders over the finish line with a margin of almost 13 seconds and now moves into strong contention for winning the title. Two holeshots, two fastest laps, two moto victories and all in her home GP - It doesn't get much better than that.
Red Number plate and leader in the championship
While Steffi said she was thrilled to finally win a GP and take possession of the red number plate she did say she was disappointed that her strongest opponent, Livia Lancelot, with who she has shared the glory this season, was not able to ride. The French rider tackled Saturday's race with a shoulder injury and failed to finish. It is now being reported that she will need surgery to fix the injury and Lancelot herself told reporters that she must now concentrate on being fit for next season.
"I am sorry that Livia was not riding today because I wanted to fight with her on equal terms. It is always sad when you get injured. I know what its like because it has happened to me. Also there are not so many of the women riders in the top group and it is always more interesting when the competition is close," Steffi said.
Steffi drew praise from KTM's Offroad Racing Director Pit Beirer. "It was really great that Steffi won today and she did it with a double moto victory. Now she has the red plate so she must be confident and believe in herself," he said.
Results Women's GP
1. Steffi Laier, Germany, KTM 26:01.812
2. Maria Franke, Kawasaki, 26:14.548
3. Larissa Pappenmeier, Germany, Suzuki, 26:30.188
4. Nathalie Kane, Ireland, Suzuki, 26:46.920
5. Marielle De Mol, Netherlands, Yamaha, 27:06.323
Other KTM
14. Sarah Whitmore, USA, KTM
Championship Standings after five of seven rounds
1. Steffi Laier, Germany, KTM, 211 points
2. Larissa Pappenmeier, Germany, Suzuki, 190
3. Livia Lancelot, France, Kawasaki, 185
4. Maria Franke, Germany, Kawasaki, 179
5. Elin Mann, Sweden, KTM, 157
Posted to Motorcycle Racing - Motocross, Women in Motorsports by Motorsports Journal « Go Back
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