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Peter Bradford Battles Brutal Conditions at 2026 Hattah Desert Race
The 2026 Hattah Desert Race definitely lived up to its reputation as a tough race.
With the large amount of rain in the week leading up to the event, the terrain became extremely rough from the very start. Battling through this desert race over the 37 km track alongside 432 other riders is a challenge in itself, but the added moisture in the ground made it even more demanding.
There was a mix of wet sand, dry sand, mud, ruts, whoops, and deep corner ruts. By only the second lap, the track had already deteriorated significantly, making it very hard work.
Unfortunately, I had a decent crash on lap three while trying to avoid another rider who had gone down in front of me. Thankfully, my airbag vest deployed and absorbed most of the impact. However, I've been left with some bruising to my hand and side.
After returning to the pits, I checked over both the bike and myself before heading back out to continue the race. Those final two laps were brutal and extremely difficult.
In the end, I completed five laps, finishing 28th in my class and 295th overall. While these weren't the results I was hoping for, it was still a significant improvement on my previous Hattah race.
As always, the Matt Jones Team Green machine performed flawlessly and handled everything the terrain could throw at it without issue.
Once again, I was able to promote Team Green and Matt Jones through post-race interviews and podcast appearances.
The bike is now being converted back to a motocross setup for this weekend's two-day Open meeting at the Central Victorian MX Club in Toolleen.
