Date: 27 September '05

The most exciting Motocross event of the year has taken place in Ernee France in front of more than 35 000 enthusiastic hard core fans and spectators – the MX of Nations.

This being the fourth time that Gareth Swanepoel has represented his country in the coveted event, the twenty-year-old was eager to fly the South African flag alongside fellow team-mates Tyla Rattray and Neville Bradshaw. Swanie set out to tackle the MX1 class with the likes of American superstar, Ricky Carmichael, 9 times world champ Stefan Everts, Kiwi’s Josh Coppins and a whole pool of talented riders from 29 countries around the globe.

This is what Swanie had to say after America eventually went on to reclaim their right as the best Motocross Nation to equal Britain’s all time record of 16 victories. South Africa finished a somewhat disappointing 9th overall after just missing out of podium spot at last year’s event.

“It’s unbelievable what an amazing event the MX of Nations is! To represent your country in just awesome but to do it front of so many spectators and supporters is mind blowing.

I qualified Ok in the MX1 group on Saturday with 10th place and both Tyla and Neville rode well in their groups so we had no problem making the final program on Sunday.

The MX1 and MX2 guys were up first and being on the far side of the gate I needed a good start. I had a great jump and but got bumped out by RC in the first turn and lost a whole lot of positions. I fought to come through the pack on the first lap and was pushing to break into the top ten. I found it difficult to find a rhythm and finally ended up 15th after making a few mistakes. Tyla was also having a tough time and came home in 18th.

Neville and Tyla were up for the second race of the day (MX2 + Open). Once again they tried their best but things just weren’t happening for them.

For the final race of the day (MX1 + Open) I had an inside start gate and had a great start! I was in the top five when I got slammed from behind in the first turn and almost went down. A few seconds later I did go down when Garcia Vico came across the line on a double jump and three of us ploughed straight into the back of him. After I got going again I managed to catch up 23rd - I was not pleased with my riding. Nev finished just in front of me in 21st.

All in all it was a terrible day for us South Africans results wise but racing against names like RC, Townley, Windham, Everts, Coppins, Pichon, Tortelli was awesome We had one of the youngest teams out there and with a bit more experience I’m sure we will be knocking on door for a podium next year!”