The Gozo Motocross Association organised its first round of the Yamaha Gozo Motocross Championship 2016/17 with 24 riders participating in some of the most challenging and toughest racing ever seen at Ta' Xhajma Track.
Races started at 1pm and the afternoon proved to be an extremely enjoyable experience both for riders and spectators alike.
Following weeks of extensive, hard work, the motocross riders expressed their appreciation at the resulting high level of standard of the circuit. The rough terrain challenged riders to use power, speed and strength to show their unlimited off-road skills from start to finish. Large crowds of fans came to support their favourite riders. 
Prior to the racing, Fr Joseph Curmi blessed the new circuit, all the participant riders and their motorbikes. He prayed that all riders would enjoy their much loved sport in safety. In the name of the Association, the President Frank Xuereb, thanked all those who appreciated the much needed intensive overhaul.
As usual the event was divided into three categories. In Class A , Maltese rider Paul Muscat came in first, followed by Steve Xuereb on Honda CRF 250cc and Mario Cauchi respectively. In Category B, Nataniel Camilleri acquired the full 60 points aboard his Yamaha YZ 250cc while Matthew Zammit came in second. Jorn Stellini, promoted from class C to class B came in third. Daniel Camilleri held on tightly to his 60 points, in Class C as he fought it out with Anthony Fenech on his KTM SX 85cc, who came in second place. Also in Class C, Mark Camilleri ended up coming in third. 
Each winner was awarded a trophy at the end of the day's hard work.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Malta Community Chest Fund as part of the Gozo Festival of Sports organised by the Gozo Sports Board.
Gozo Motocross Association announced that Round 2 of the Yamaha Gozo Motocross Championship will take place on the 13th of November.
Meanwhile GMA in collaboration with Gozo Sports Board will be holding the 2nd edition of The Gozo Enduro Rally on the 5th November 2016.
More information and regular updates can be found on the Gozo Motocross Association facebook page [1].
Photographs by Alain Salvary