Larissa Papenmeier has gained plenty of momentum heading into WMX Final Round at Trentino in couple of weeks time. Taking consecutive Overall Round wins at Valkenswaard followed by top step of podium at Round 3 at Mantova, Larissa confirms the Team Yamaha Racing 423 rider has one goal in sight- WMX Title 2020.
Known for smooth riding style, nailing starts all the while remaining calm under pressure, 2020 WMX season has been one of the closest, hotly contested battles on the track in recent years. As elusive as gaining her first WMX Championship Title has been, Larissa takes pride in knowing she has all talent, experience and mental agility to raise her game when needed for victory.
If anything, Lare processes all that happens during racing in matter of fact style, noting some elements are unknown like weather, whose on form and how racing plays out. Neither disturbed or rattled by ‘race-to-hole-shot’, banging of bars, or edging out rider/s to outside, Lare’s well prepared sense of maintaining ‘own world’ on start-line stands her in great stead for Final show-down.
If history was marker for good-tidings, Larissa gained 2018 WMX Opening Round win at Trentino going 1-3. Plus, Lare likes the track with change of elevations and spectacular setting. Yes, weather will be slightly colder, with WMX season stretching into months which traditionally have been off calendar in ‘normal’ MXGP race schedule.
2020 has been far from knowing when racing will happen, which as Larissa admits took a while to adjust how to plan training, how to roll with changes and even how to sustain focus when there are no actual dates confirmed for races. It takes solid reliance on strength of character supported by loyal, faithful family and Team to continue on trajectory which was set way back in pre-season training.
With WMX points standings so close: Nancy Van de Ven on 166, Courtney Duncan 162, Larissa 160 and Kiara Fontanesi on 156- there is no doubt that who keeps mental focus uppermost on track amid all-out battles amongst loaded WMX class will be 2020 WMX Champion.
All very best for Lare!
WMX Round 5 MXGP of Trentino November 1st.
Words: Sharon Cox.
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