WMA CLIMBS TO NEW HEIGHTS

written by David Bulmer
GoldenBalbi Photos: Brent Stallo

Ashley Fiolek continued her dominance in the first motos by leading the entire race, holeshot to finish line with no-one even close to challenging her. The nearest rider was the Suzuki of Sherri Cruse who managed to follow her across the line after having a relatively uneventful race, keeping herself a few seconds ahead of the battle royale which was taking place for the final podium spot. Vicki Golden, who was riding on her new Factory Connection bike looked favourite for that spot as Jessica Patterson and Brazilian Mariana Balbi went toe to toe. However she soon became embroiled in this dogfight which eventually saw Patterson overtake both Balbi and Golden for 3rd place.

Another Fiolek holeshot, but she certainly wouldn't have it her own way in moto two. First Golden would go past in the 3rd turn, and then a lap later, Patterson would also overtake. This had the makings of a real classic as Patterson soon overtook Golden for the lead, with Fiolek following close behind. Just as it looked like we'd finally see an end to Fiolek's win streak, Patterson crashed, handing the lead, and what looked like a comfortable victory to the Factory Honda rider.
However this wasn't the plan for Balbi as she put on a charge that would get her right on the back wheel of Fiolek. Try as she might, the Brazilian couldn't make the pass and would settle back for 2nd place in the race and 3rd overall. It was a really impressive performance though and she certainly caught the eye of the fans. Cruse wasn't able to overtake Golden for the final podium spot, but her 4th would be good enough for 2nd overall.PattersonGolden

Each week the Women seem to be getting better and better, and with more industry support coming their way, things are really improving. They now have a month to get ready for Washougal, with the X-Games a week after that. Fiolek is obviously favourite, but with the immergence of Golden and Cruse, as well as the more experienced Patterson and Balbi, Women's motocross is reaching new heights.

Race Overall Pts Championship Standings Pts
1. Ashley Fiolek 50 1. Ashley Fiolek 247
2. Sherri Cruse 40 2. Jessica Patterson 198
3. Mariana Balbi 38 3. Sherri Cruse 194
4. Vicki Golden 38 4. Vicki Golden 192
5. Jessica Patterson 35 5. Elizabeth Bash 147

You are commenting as a Guest. Login or Register to post under your account.

Name:
Email: