When Yamaha Motor Canada announced they were sending three of our young and talented kids over to compete in the Blu Cru Superfinale last weekend in the UK, there was a sense of excitement across our great country. The opportunity to compete against some of the world’s best young riders on the sport’s largest stage was something these riders and their families would never forget. To get a behind-the-scenes look at one of our rider’s weeks in England, we had Jonathan Bergeron’s Mom, Natalie, send us their family story.
Words and Photos by Natalie Bergeron
What an amazing adventure! Our week has been filled with long lasting memories and exciting stories.
Our first day started with a Shakedown test at the Rogers Hills Raceway Dorset. Racers from across the globe were given brand new YZ bikes to practice on and try out. Once happy with the bike set-up, they took care of transferring it to Matterley Basin. This was seamlessly organized by the Yamaha bLU cRU team.
Next morning, we went to visit Stonehenge on our way to see the Pros practice in Oxford. It was lovely to interact with the Canadian Pros and watch them from up close. In the afternoon, we picked up our riding gear at Matterley Basin and set up the decals on our bike. Each decal was personalized with the country’s respective flag. Two huge white tents were set up with each country’s 65, 85 and 125 bikes in a row. Twenty-eight banners displaying the country’s name were hung on the ceiling above their row of motorcycles.
Friday was spent at Matterley Basin. Rules and regulations were presented. All bikes went through a technical inspection while the riders took portrait photos. After lunch, Eli Tomac, Cooper Webb and Maxime Renaux came to our tent to meet with the Yamaha bLU cRU riders, sign autographs and take pictures. A group picture was taken from the starting gates. It is quite an impressive sight to witness approximately 115 Yamaha racers all dressed in blue. They were then divided into 3 small groups corresponding to their racing category. Yamaha bLU cRU coaches, like Ryan Villopoto, walked the track with them discussing tips and tricks appropriate to their level of riding. We finished the day in front of a crowd cheering the bLU cRU group followed by the presentation of the MXoN teams.
Saturday started off early since the YZ125 were the first on the track for qualification. All dressed in his brand new Yamaha gear and helmet sporting the Canadian colors, Jonathan was off. After 2 laps, unfortunately there was a bike issue which required Jon to return to the Yamaha bLU cRU tent. The organizing team quickly got into action. Phone calls were made and a new bike was found 45 minutes away. Communication with the FIM team assured us that Jonathan could race the next day. The new bike was delivered to us in the afternoon and a new technical inspection was done. Throughout the day, the Yamaha bLU cRU SuperFinale team followed up with us to make sure everything was okay and things ran as smoothly as possible for Jon.
Sunday was race day! Last gate pick, but we are just thankful that Jon got to race. During the race, I kept thinking that there was no better feeling than seeing your child participate in this prestigious race. Afterwards, we got to enjoy Matterley Basin as spectators.
Throughout this experience, I am positive that the bLU cRU participants felt a bit like the pro racers. They engaged in interviews, were photographed and televised, cheered on by thousands of fans as well as met some of their role models.
As for me, I appreciated the constant support from the Yamaha bLU cRU team as well as the collegial atmosphere. Different countries helping and encouraging each other while finding a common ground; our love for motocross. We spent quite a bit of time together either eating in the bLU cRU Hospitality tent or during the multiple activities organized.
During the flight home, I reflected about my week. Yamaha has really surpassed all of my expectations. The bLU cRU team has shown me time and again how much they are willing to invest in youth racers in order to help them achieve their goals and offer them unique opportunities. Our family is very fortunate to have been part of this very first Canadian experience.
