Racing News |
Desert Enduro Round 1 at Mildura
Peter Bedford lined up this past weekend for the opening round of the Desert Enduro season, held approximately 30 km south of Mildura. With a field of over 100 senior riders, the event began under extremely dusty conditions, making visibility on the 27 km loop particularly challenging. In some sections, riders could see no further than their own front mudguard.
Choosing a measured and strategic approach on the unfamiliar track, Bedford opted to ride conservatively through the opening lap to minimise risk. While this decision cost him several positions early on, it allowed him to avoid incidents in the low-visibility conditions. By lap two, he found clearer air and was able to establish a strong and consistent rhythm.
During the third lap, at approximately the 2 km mark, Bedford encountered a fallen rider who had suffered a heavy crash. After receiving no initial response, he stopped to provide assistance. The rider had been knocked unconscious and was in a serious condition, though responsive by the time Bedford reached him. He successfully flagged down another competitor to alert the next marshal and ensure medical assistance was dispatched. Once medics arrived and Bedford had briefed them on the situation, he resumed racing. It was later confirmed that the crash had been severe enough to crack the rider’s helmet.
Rejoining the race well behind the field, Bedford pushed on with determination, completing his fourth lap and taking the chequered flag. He secured 9th place out of 14 riders in his class.
Despite the setbacks, Bedford expressed satisfaction with the result, highlighting the value of the race as preparation in both fitness and race pace ahead of upcoming major events. The Matt Jones Team Green KX450 performed faultlessly throughout the day, delivering strong performance whenever track conditions allowed.
With just over four weeks remaining until the iconic Finke Desert Race, Bedford may not compete again before the event due to a scheduling change for Round 2. His focus now turns fully toward preparation for what is widely regarded as the biggest race of the year.