ANTHONY SOLAR WINS HARD ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP

The Motul Sherco Hard Enduro team delivered an electrifying performance at the final round of the 2024 Australian Hard Enduro Championship, the ‘HillStorm Challenge,’ held in Hillston, NSW. Team rider Anthony Solar secured his second national hard enduro championship in a thrilling battle that tested the limits of endurance and strategy.

Facing a field of 235 riders and a revamped race format, Solar charged ahead from pole position. His rival Ruben Chadwick and seasoned contender Wade Ibrahim kept the pressure on, setting the stage for a nail-biting six-hour battle. Midway through, Chadwick edged past Solar, who swiftly regained composure and sealed the deal with a calculated ride to secure second place, and with it, the coveted premier class championship.

Reflecting on the season, Solar remarked, “What a season! It’s been incredibly close all year between Ruben and me. I feel that we stepped up the level between us two and Wade, which is great for hard enduro racing in Australia as the discipline grows from strength to strength. While it has been one of the most intense seasons on and off the racetrack, I can honestly say it has also been one of the most enjoyable with some of the battles Ruben and I have had. I started racing for fun and am fortunate to still enjoy it as much today as when I started. The Motul Sherco team and I have put a crazy amount of work into this, and to come away with the ultimate reward for our efforts is very gratifying. After falling short last year, I said I’d back myself to get the title back in the blue camp. They (Sherco) believed in me, and we got it done. I’m stoked for all the great people in my corner who have helped make this possible.”

Team Manager Derek Grundy echoed the triumph, saying, “We’re very proud of Anthony’s achievements. He knew he needed to elevate to the next level, and he put in the work to put himself in the position he is in today, now a two-time national champion, with this one being all the sweeter and officially recognised by Motorcycling Australia. While our racing program has been around for quite some time, our hard enduro program is only in its second year, so it’s a great reward for all the people and companies involved who have supported the team from the outset to be recognised as champions.”