Sportsline

DAFYDD SHINES IN ITALY

Andrew Clarke
QUAD CROSS
As the youngest and only competitor from Wales to represent Great Britain in the Quad Cross of National annual touring event this year, 18 year old Dafydd Davies of Ponthirwaun near Cardigan and his team members finished a terrific fifth place. Writes Anwen Francis.
The two day event, which attracted 18 teams from across the globe, was held in the town of Cingoli, Italy and consisted of a weekend of practice sessions and qualifying rounds.
“The course was challenging and demanding,” said Dafydd who competed against 36 other riders in each race. His team mates, Carl Bunce from Reading and George Day from Somerset all excelled even though George had mechanical problems at one stage of the event.
“I’ve never done anything like this before. The jumps were huge but it was a brilliant experience. I’m so proud to have represented my country and I might never have the chance again. It was an unforgettable experience,” added Dafydd who is following in the quad bike racing tracks of his international champion father, Edward, who was also selected to be part of the British quad team racing at the same track four years ago.
The weather of 23 degrees attracted a soaring number of spectators to this world –renowned event, but a heavy downpour during the last race saw people running for shelter. “With only six minutes to go, the last race had to be cancelled. It was just too dangerous and the fog came down so quickly. But apart from the weather, it was just terrific,” concluded Dafydd who will this weekend compete in the last round of the British Championships in Kent.