Wesley van Helmond takes Dutch Nitro Buggy title
The final round of the Dutch Nitro Buggy Championship was held at the Purmerend astro turf track. The qualifiers on Sunday started on a wet track but it would soon start to dry, meaning drivers would have to adapt the setups of their buggies quickly. At the end of the qualifying Agama’s Bart Mullink took the TQ from TLR driver Wesley van Helmond in second. Pre-event favourite Wesley had to get at least a fifth place finish in the main final to grab the overall championship but a broken clutch spring meant even an appearance in the main final was in question at the start of the semifinal. Thankfully another driver asked for a time-out so Wesley’s pit crew was able to change the spring but starting into the race Wesley had already lost two laps but putting his head down he was able to make up the time and to get a second place in the 20-minute finale. Starting from the 4 spot into the main final, Wesley quickly got into grips and he soon found himself in second place behind Jarno Piijpers. Wesley eventually got past Jarno later and he was able to open a 6-second gap on the field until he got hit by another car which bend a suspension pin of his car but he was able to proceed and even had the performance to challenge a storming Bart Mullink who was hot on his heels for the win. Changing positions several times Wesley and Bart would make it out for the win but ultimately Wesley would bring home the win after an intense race with Bart Mullink in second and Jordy Velder (Agama) in third. With five wins and three TQ spots, Wesley would then take the overall title in the 1/8th Nitro Buggy class to add to his 2016 2WD championship title.
Thanks to Wesley van Helmond for the report.
