One of the biggest rigs in the 2023 British Championship paddock, who also attended most of the MXGP rounds held in Europe, was the ASA United GASGAS squad. In an end-of-season statement, the team and their riders sum-up their racing year.
Words & Images: ASA United GASGAS
Well, 2023 has been a testing year for ASA United GASGAS; a rollercoaster ride comprised of race wins, podiums and season ending injuries. Our riders have worn their hearts on their sleeves and given 110% at every round, and that is all we can ever ask of them.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank every single sponsor for their contributions and unwavering support. With the current economic climate, every bit of it helps to keep the cogs turning.
Thank you to our mechanics, friends and family members that have sacrificed their weekends to support the team; community is a fundamental part of this sport and having you in attendance at any of the races throughout the year, has been hugely appreciated.
Our riders have taken the time to summarise the 2023 season, commenting on the highs and lows, and their overall experience with ASA United GASGAS:
Ivo Monticelli – MC450f
“Not the best season for me due to injury, but for sure a good experience to be racing in England. The tracks were really different from what I am used to racing, but I enjoyed it. After returning from injury I was struggling with arm pump and to be back in shape; but my form improved towards the end of the championship and I managed to show some speed, being closer to where we were before. Thanks to the people that have worked with me and all the sponsors. New chapter next year and we go again.”
John Adamson – MC450f
“Was pretty steady away, had a bit of bad luck with a technical issue and getting landed on at round one, so wasn’t a great start. Came away with 5th in the British Championship which was respectable. Always hoping for more, but ended the year injury free so looking to build for next year. Been amazing doing another year with Lee and the whole ASA team; it has been a great time in my life. Can’t thank Lee enough for taking me in when I was broken and brought me to where I am just now. Exciting times ahead and looking forward to the first gate drop of 2024 already.”
Bobby Bruce – MC250f
“This season started off pretty well, managed to podium and lead multiple laps in the British championship. I gained huge experience and felt like every GP I raced, my pace got better, and it was nice to mix it up with the top boys. Unfortunately, I had a pretty nasty crash just after my first British MX2 race win at Hawkstone whilst training in Lommel, bringing my season to an end.
It’s a shame, as it felt like I just started to find my feet again after last year’s injury. Physio is going well at the moment, so I look forward to being back behind the gate next year!”
Ben Mustoe – MC250f
“This year was my first year on the MC250f after only one season in the youth mxy1/2. I had a solid winter where I spent two quality weeks in Spain with the team and my teammates, which was super beneficial for me and helped me get used to the new bike in preparation for the new season.
My MX Nationals season started off great where I took the points lead. However, due to a shoulder injury mid-season I was unable to win the championship. Nevertheless, I still ended up 2nd in the Expert MX2 class. My main goal this season however was to be around the top 10 and gain as much experience as possible in my rookie season in the British Championship. I had my ups and downs throughout the season, but ended on a high with a 6th and 13th in the races at the finale, leaving me 11th in the championship in a stacked MX2 class.
To complete my season, I raced the EMX250 at Matterley Basin and it was the highlight of my year. A great experience racing the best riders in the world. I had 22nd and 14th in the races with an injury I sustained on the Saturday during qualifying hindering my performance slightly, wrapping up my season. Thanks to Lee and the team for their support throughout the year, I look forward to working hard through the winter and coming back strong for 2024.”
Once again, thank you to everyone for your support over the 2023 season, and to many of you the multiple years that you have been behind Lee and the team. We shall announce our plans for the 2024 season in due course.
