Buxthude
ADAC XC CUP Estering: A Final Junior Chapter
Last weekend in Buxtehude marked the closing rounds of the ADAC XC Cup and my last time competing in the Junior class. It was a weekend filled with tough battles, valuable lessons, and a bittersweet farewell to this chapter of my racing journey. Here’s how the action unfolded:
Saturday: Round 5
My first time on the legendary Estering track, and I quickly found my rhythm. Qualifying went well, putting me in P2 for the heats. Each race was packed with battles, and despite a few minor issues later in the day, I ended the final with a P3finish.
Results Recap:
🟡 Qualification: P2
🟡 Heat 1: P2
🟡 Heat 2: P2
🟡 Heat 3: P3
🟡 Final: P3
The highlight of the day was pushing hard against the competition and proving my pace. Even with some challenges, the podium finish felt rewarding.
Sunday: Round 6
Sunday brought its own set of challenges. I qualified P3, but from the start, I struggled to keep up with the front runners. Heat 1 turned into a disaster when I crashed in the joker lap, resulting in a DNF. Despite this setback, I refocused and pushed through Heat 2 and Heat 3, securing P3 in both.
In the final, I had a great start and fought hard to maintain my position, ultimately finishing P3 again.
Results Recap:
🟡 Qualification: P3
🟡 Heat 1: DNF
🟡 Heat 2: P3
🟡 Heat 3: P3
🟡 Final: P3
Reflecting on the Weekend
The results may not have gone entirely my way, but Estering taught me a lot about racing under pressure and adapting to new challenges. This track demanded precise handling and quick decision-making, which I’ll carry forward as I move up to the senior class next season.
Key Takeaways:
Adaptability is everything: The joker lap mishap on Sunday was a tough pill to swallow, but it reminded me how important it is to stay composed after a setback.
Pushing through challenges pays off: Both finals resulted in a podium, proving that consistent effort can make a big difference.
Next Chapter: Senior Class Awaits!
With the Junior class now behind me, I’m excited to take the next step in my racing career. The senior class brings new challenges, faster competition, and a chance to elevate my game.
A big thanks to my team, supporters, and everyone who has been part of my Junior class journey. The future is bright, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Stay tuned—bigger battles and new adventures are on the horizon!
- Thijmen Houben
