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Collin Matiza Sports Editor

WITH spectators finally allowed back to watch live sports in South Africa, Zimbabwe’s junior motocross champion rider, Emmanuel Bako, has promised to produce some fireworks. 

He will take part in the penultimate round, of the 2021 South African National Championship series, in Bloemfontein, on Saturday. 

Most of the 2021 title battles are unlikely to be resolved this weekend though. 

But, it is possible Bloemfontein may well crown one, or two, of this year’s first champions. 

And, Bako (14), is still in the mix to be crowned the overall champion of the 85cc Pro Mini Class. 

Top riders in the 85cc Pro Mini Class, who include Bako, still have everything to fight for  in this section. 

Trey Cox’ Red Bull KTM has Rockstar Husqvarna lad, Neil van der Vyver, closing in. 

And, Husqvarna lads, Jordan van Wyk and Ryan Adler, and the KTM duo of Bako and Christian Berrington-Smith, are well within striking range, too. 

After having warmed up for this weekend’s penultimate round of the South African Nationals, by sweeping to victory in the 85cc Class, during the fourth round of the Bogwheelers Club National Championship series back home at Donnybrook two weeks ago, Bako now turns his focus to the Bloemfontein event. 

“It’s good to hear that spectators will be allowed back to watch motocross racing in South Africa, starting with this Saturday’s race meeting in Bloemfontein,’’ said his father Brighton. 

‘’This will definitely lift the spirits of a number of riders, including Emmanuel, as he is the darling of the fans there. 

“They really love him and he was missing them during the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, which did not allow spectators, to watch live sport, in South Africa.

“The restrictions have now been lifted and Emmanuel’s followers will be in Bloemfontein on Saturday to watch him in action, for the first time, this season. 

“It’s really a privilege for Emmanuel to race in front of these fans, thanks to his main Zimbabwean sponsors, Scott Sakupwanya’s Better Brands Jewellery, who have been supporting him throughout the year.

“This has seen him flying to South Africa every other weekend to race there in both regional and National competitions in that country. 

‘’On Saturday, I’m quite sure, he will produce some fireworks as he is really determined to claim the first step on the podium to enhance his chances of being crowned the 2021 85cc Pro Mini Champion at the end of the South African National Championship series in November.’’ 

It will be interesting to see how Bako will handle the pressure. 

The 2021 South African National Motocross Championship is presented by Motorsport South Africa in partnership with Cannabis Energy Drink, TRP Distributors, Prepsol, Bridgestone, Thor, Gaerne, FMF, Pro Taper, 100%, Fly Racing, Ogio, Bandit Graffix and the Race Shop.