Evert favorite in 250cc world race

Evert favorite in 250cc world race

JAKARTA (JP): Belgium's Stevan Evert is favorite to win the 12th leg of the 250cc World Motorcross championships starting today at the Jatinangor circuit near Bandung.

But Evert will face tough competition from France's Frederic Bolley and Sebastian Tortelli.

Foreign riders have already arrived and got a feel for the circuit situated on the Manglayang mountain's slopes.

French motocross observer Pascal Haudiquert said the circuit would be a challenging one.

The world 250cc championships in Bandung is one of 12 races in the International Motor Federation's grand prix.

"With the condition of the circuit, I am sure we will see a more attractive round than the previous races in Europe or Latin America," he said.

He said Evert would be hard to beat on his Honda.

Evert has garnered 130 points after four rounds in Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands and Italy.

In second place is his countryman Bervoets Marnicq with 108 points.

"Marnicq is far bellow Evert who has the chance to win three consecutive titles after winning last year and in 1995," Haudiquert said.

Everts said every rider had a chance to win the 12th round.

"I have to be optimistic to win the championship although I have yet to learn the circuit here," he said.

This is the first time Indonesia has hosted the prestigious event and ANteve will broadcast the race.

Several foreign television stations will also cover the event.

Local riders will compete in the 125cc motorcross competition which is also being held this weekend.

There will also be a race for 80cc motorcycles.

"We have tried to make the championship worth watching," organizer Helmy Sungkar said.

Helmy said he wanted to make the circuit as exclusive as possible. (03)