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Will Price puts Empire Motorsports on the class podium at 2023 Hattah Desert Race
Empire Motorsports' off-road racer Will Price has finished on the class podium in a talent-packed field at the 2023 Hattah Desert Race this weekend.
In his fifth attempt at the legendary 304-kilometre race, the Victorian powered his 2023 Kawasaki KX250X to a hard-fought runner-up position in the 250cc four-stroke class and a creditable 20th outright, with a time of 5 hours 3 minutes 31.116 seconds.
In near-perfect racing conditions, Price stayed steady through the chaos that traditionally unfolds on the first of the eight-lap race, then continued to lay down consistent laps as the track became increasingly rough.
With one lap remaining, Price dug deep and made a late pass on the third-placed rider to cross the finish line in P2, five minutes behind the class leader.
“This was the fifth time I’ve raced at Hattah, but this result means more to me than any of the other results I’ve had, just because the field had a lot more big-named riders than it’s had previously.
“Even though the sand was perfect for racing – there were only a handful of dusty corners on the whole 38km loop – the track was probably the roughest I’ve ever seen it, and I’m really happy to get through it in one piece.
“I’m really happy with my performance; it’s a big day of racing, but my Kawasaki KX250X didn’t miss a beat.”
Price’s focus now turns to rounds five and six of the 2023 Australian Off-Road Championships at Edenhope, Vic on 22-23 July.
2023 Hattah Desert Race, Mildura, VIC
Up to 250cc four-stroke results:
1. Thomas Mason 2. Will Price (Empire Kawasaki) 3. Tyran Tomich
Overall results:
1: Mason Semmens 2. Jack Simpson 3. Korey McMahon 20. Will Price (Empire Kawasaki)