FMF KTM FACTORY RACING AND KELLEY SCORE VICTORY AT WILD BOAR GNCC ROUND TWO
Monday, March 6, 2023 | 9:20 AM
FMF KTM FACTORY RACING AND KELLEY SCORE VICTORY AT WILD BOAR GNCC ROUND TWO
Round 2 – Grand National Cross Country Series
Continuing to build back strength from leg injuries that sidelined him for much of last season, 2021 champion Kelley sliced his way to the front of the field after completing the opening lap P5. Once out front, the KTM 350 XC-F rider delivered a controlled ride to the win, emerging on top in the XC1 Pro class to draw level with the series points leader.
Ben Kelley: “I didn’t have the best start, got up to sixth pretty quick and tried to ride the first two laps just saving energy. It was dusty and it was hard to not make mistakes. I just did what I could and got to the lead, Johnny was right behind me and it was like, alright let’s go to work and see who was going to crack first. I was on the verge, but stayed strong and hit my marks, didn’t make mistakes and next thing I know I had a good lead and just rode her in."
Continuing his transition to the XC1 Pro class, Girroir worked his way well and truly into podium contention at the Wild Boar, but was unfortunately ruled out of the race after completing three laps. Despite the end result, the former GNCC XC2 champion showed positive steps forward from the opening round as the condition of his arm continues to improve.
Johnny Girroir: “I felt good today going into it, we have made some progress from Big Buck, got a little better. We’ve still got some work to do, but it went better than round one. My arm is getting better slowly, but surely, and it is definitely improving. We're looking forward to the coming rounds now.”
Round two of the 2023 GNCC series also saw Big Buck XC1 Pro class winner Steward Baylor ride his KTM to the runner-up position, now tied for the points lead with Kelley. Meanwhile, KTM rider Korie Steed make it two in a row to open the new season in the WXC category.
Next Race: The General GNCC – Washington, GA – March 12, 2023
XC1 Open Pro Results – Wild Boar GNCC
1. Ben Kelley, KTM, 2:38:53.499
2. Steward Baylor Jr, KTM + 2:12.960
3. Craig Delong, HQV + 2:29.579
OTHER KTM
11. Johnny Girroir, KTM
Overall Championship Standings
1. Ben Kelley, 55 points
2. Steward Baylor Jr, 55
3. Ricky Russell, 39
OTHER KTM
12. Johnny Girroir, 1