The KTM factory rider and series champion, Manuel Lettenbichler, faced a surprising setback at the Roof of Africa, where he was overtaken by Teo Kabakchiev from Sherco, marking the Bulgarian’s first victory in a World Championship event. This thrilling competition took place in Lesotho, drawing attention for its challenging terrain and skilled participants. In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, Kabakchiev not only secured his win but also showcased what hard-enduro racing is all about.
During the prologue in Morocco, it was Daniel Sanders of KTM who set the pace, finishing as the fastest rider among three competitors within just 13 seconds. However, it was the Roof of Africa that would ultimately determine the standings in the Hard-Enduro World Championship. Lettenbichler, known for his string of victories, found himself at a disadvantage, unable to clinch a win at this prestigious event often referred to as the 'Mother of Hard Enduro'. Unlike previous years when South African riders dominated, this time it was Kabakchiev who emerged victorious, demonstrating his exceptional navigational skills and racing prowess throughout the three-day event.
In an exclusive interview with SPEEDWEEK.com, Lettenbichler reflected on his performance, expressing satisfaction despite the outcome. He noted the challenges he faced, particularly during the first round where he often rode alone, grappling with navigation amidst a physically demanding race that lacked technical difficulty but was exhausting nonetheless. Over the two prologue runs, Lettenbichler encountered a misstep that cost him valuable time, but he managed to regroup and ride competitively with fellow racer Ashton, catching up to the leaders on the second day.
Lettenbichler praised Kabakchiev’s performance, acknowledging the Bulgarian's impressive navigation and clean riding which earned him the victory. He recognized that Kabakchiev would undoubtedly carry this momentum into the upcoming Sea to Sky race in Turkey, where he would likely aim for further success. The excitement surrounding Kabakchiev's win at such a significant event will surely elevate his ambition as he prepares for future competitions.
As the season progresses, Lettenbichler also shared insights into the differences between the Roof of Africa and the Sea to Sky event, noting that while both races feature rocky terrains and mountainous challenges, Sea to Sky offers a more technical experience with a unique coastal vibe. He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming races, looking forward to concluding the season on a high note.
As reported by speedweek.com.
