On the first weekend of October, the legendary Motocross des Nations takes place in Matterley Basin, England. This year, Estonia will be represented by Gert Krestinov (MXGP), Harri Kullas (Open) and Tanel Leok (MX2).
This year’s Estonian national team manager Martin Arumäe explained that Tanel Leok was definitely not the first choice to represent the MX2 class. “In MX2, we still had Jörgen-Matthias Talviku all the time, but he was suffering from Epsten Barr’s disease. We still talked with Jörgen until the last moment and waited for him, but in the end, on the recommendation of the doctor and the team, he decided to skip the competition and focus on the new season,” explained Arumäe.
Arumäe added that Meico Vettik also got an offer to represent Estonia in the MX2 class, but Vettik did not want to change from a 450cc cycle to a 250cc one. “Meico has done very good rides with the 450 this year and he is also the current leader of the Estonian championship, but unfortunately he did not want to change the cycle,” said Arumäe.
In addition to Talvik and Vettiku, other Estonian MX2 class athletes were also considered. “Looking at their season, the instability at times, the scale and pressure of the national cross country, we decided that Tane is still the most suitable choice at the moment,” stated Arumäe.
Arumäe said that Leok took time to think, but was still ready to play this role. “If the Estonian national team needs it, he comes and helps,” he added. The last time Leok represented Estonia with an MX2 cycle was in 2016. “I really like riding the MX2 bike, and the Matterley track really suits me too,” Leok explained.
This year, Krestinov and Kullas are participating in the event for the tenth time, and Leok is participating in the 22nd time. “They have driven a lot and have a lot of experience on this track. This team is the most experienced team that could be put together in Estonia, and this is also a big plus in our favor,” confirmed Arumäe.
Arumäe recognized that the athletes are no longer in their prime, but it is still an extremely strong team. “What Harri has done in the USA is impressive. Tanel’s physical form at the age of 40 is sometimes better than that of some 25-year-olds. And there are only praises for Gert, he doesn’t lead the Estonian championships, but let’s not forget that he had a broken collarbone in the middle of the season,” he said.
The last time Krestinov participated in the national cross was four years ago in Mantua. “The feelings are strong, and this news definitely gave me the motivation to work hard for this month and be ready for the competition. You can test yourself again,” said Krestinov.
Kullas was also satisfied with the team and is looking forward to this year’s national cross. “It’s been a little more difficult to assemble this team this year, but I think we have a very stable team,” he said. Kullas explained that he would fly back about ten days before the race to start testing the cycles. “It will also be interesting for you. Since I have been in Brazil and America for the whole season, the preparation will be a little different, getting used to the climate, etc.,” Kullas said.
The Cross of Nations will be held on the Matterley track for the third time. “When it rains, I think it’s very suitable for our boys. Such long grooves and large holes appear. If it’s dry, it’s still a hard trail. The course is fast, with big jumps, very well-watched and exciting for spectators, but it is definitely not an easy course,” described Arumäe.
“I thank the boys that they are ready to represent Estonia and that they trust me. I also thank the supporters who have already put their shoulders down. Hence the appeal that anyone who feels that they want and can help the Estonian national team, the help is very welcome,” said Arumäe.
To support the team, contact the EMF office at info@msport.ee .
