Hancock Takes First Latvian Grand Prix Title

Greg Hancock produced an excellent performance to secure the first ever Latvian Grand Prix title on a night of high drama in Daugavpils. The 36 year old American came from behind to beat Antonio Lindback in a tense final which had to be re-run after Nicki Pedersen and Andreas Jonsson clashed. Pedersen was flung from his machine when he was hit by Jonsson’s back wheel resulting in an exclusion for the Swede who had provided many of the evenings highlights with his spectacular passing moves.

World Champion Jason Crump went out at the semi final stage as did Britains Scott Nicholls who now faces a battle to force his way into the automatic qualification spots for next years series. Still suffering from the effects of the broken collar bone that kept him out of the Czech Grand Prix Nicholls avoided early disaster when he somehow managed to stay on his machine after a full 360 degree turn in heat 9. Hans Andersen the winner in Prague had a torrid evening managing just 4 points in the qualifying races.

Conditions were never easy on a slick track that produced plenty of ruts but it was a testimony to Hancock’s ability that he maintained the level of consistency needed to take the crown in front of a Latvian crowd who thoroughly enjoyed their first glimpse of Grand Prix Speedway.

Final Positions: 1 Greg Hancock 25pts 2. Antonio Lindback 20pts 3. Nicki Pedersen 18pts 4. Andreas Jonsson 16pts

World Championship: 1. Jason Crump 181pts 2. Greg Hancock 124pts 3. Nicki Pedersen 109pts 4. Andreas Jonsson 107pts

Final Grand Prix Poland September 23rd