Andrew Vo Belgium WGP #1 Race
It has been a tremendous race season for 16 year old me, but it is not
over just yet. This last week, I competed in Eau d’Heure, Belgium for
round 2 of the WGP #1 Series, and the Jettribe Eurofinals. The WGP #1
series is the largest jetski racing series in the world, and I am so
grateful and honored to have the opportunity to compete in an event
half way across the world. International racing is a completely
different level of competition. The best riders from all over the
globe gather in one place to battle for titles.
Besides the high level of competition, racing internationally has it’s
own challenges. From riding unfamiliar skis, to the different diet,
and even the constant fatigue from the different time zones.
Leading up to the race, I was full of nerves and uncertainty. I raced
2 different classes this event. My first class was a 2 stroke lites
class, on a Yamaha Superjet. It was a difficult class, and I was
shocked at the level of competition and professionalism from the local
European riders.
The second class I raced was my traditional Amateur 4 stroke lites
class. As the youngest racer in the amateur class, I knew it would be
a tough race. A few new competitors throughout Europe competed in this
event, adding to the excitement. My motos were spread throughout the
weekend. One per day, early in the morning, 3 days straight. My first
moto was nerve-racking, considering the new environment and unfamiliar
ski. My first moto set the standard for the rest of the weekend. I
rode consistently, and stayed in 5th place, closely following 4th.
Anything can happen in a jetski race. My second moto, A Talented
Latvian rider, and good friend of mine, Alberts Cupriks came of of his
ski. I was able to take 3rd off of the start, and fought off the other
riders to secure 3rd place for that moto. Going into the third and
final moto, there were several ties across the board. Anything was
possible. I had a good holeshot, taking 5th off the splits. I was
fighting off the other riders until I had an issue with my ski, unable
to start back up again.
Walking away from this race, I finished 5th overall, behind really
talented riders. I had such a great time meeting new people and seeing
old friends. I am proud of my results for the week, and they have
motivated me to practice and train more.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete race without my one man pit crew,
Derek Correl. Thank you to Anthony Beerknaut, and Robby from Robby Jet
for providing me with a ski, and a special thank you to my sponsors
for supporting me on my journey around the world. In just a few weeks,
I will be heading back to Thailand for round 4 of the Jetski Pro Tour.
