REVO Husqvarna UK unveiled its new three-man MX2 team at the Hawkstone International on Sunday before putting on a show of force.
Racing against some of the fastest riders on the planet including reigning world MX2 champion Pauls Jonass, the trio of Martin Barr, Mel Pocock and Dylan Woodcock clearly meant business in the deep and unforgiving Shropshire sand.
Martin in particular shone on his team debut, starting strongly and resisting pressure from behind in the opening moto to chase home Jonass in second.
Another good start in race two saw the Irishman lead before a crash dropped him down the field and forced him to dig deep to come back to ninth to secure fifth overall.
His third good start of the day put Martin near the front in the Superfinal but he elected to play it safe to come home a strong sixth in MX2.
Mark Yates (Team Principal)
“I’m very pleased with the entire team effort leading up to Hawkstone. The boys have been working hard and we’ve been busy testing in preparation for this weekend.
“Martin was on a different level today and took it to the factory boys. After qualifying third behind Jonass, his first moto was unbelievable.
“A great start in moto two saw him hold a good second place until a small mishap put him down. Typically, he got straight back up and didn’t stop fighting until the chequered flag.
“He was clearly upset about throwing away a potential podium but it was still a very positive performance and he knows he has the speed to play up front!
“For the team it was a great start to 2018 and something we will take to our first British and European races. I cannot thank the boys and our helpers enough for all the hard work and commitment to put these weekends together!”
Martin Barr – 5th MX2
“It was really good to get back to the race paddock for the Hawkstone International and the day started off well with third in qualification which gave me a good gate position.
“Race one I made a good start and quickly moved into second behind the current world champion – we both set a good pace and pulled away from the rest of the field! I was feeling really comfortable for my first race of the year and was very happy to finish second in such a strong field.
“I made another great start in race two and got into the lead for brief time. I went back to third but it was still very close until I tucked the front and went down.
“I’m happy with my pace and looking forward to the season.”
By Sean Lawless