Joel Robert

JOEL ROBERT

TOP MEN IN EROPE

B. R. Nicholls

IN 1961 AT THE British round of the 250 moto-cross championship, a young Belgian rider stood out for his forceful if somewhat erratic style. It was obvious that with experience the rough edges would smooth away and given good machinery that rider would go to the top. He was. of course, Joel Robert, and his style was reminiscent of Bickers in his earlier days, the more so as Joel was at that time Greevesmounted.

Belgium has a good reputation for motocross men, with the late Rene Baeten a world champion in 1958. Now it looks as if Robert is all set to gain the 250 title for his country. His father was essentially a sporting motorcyclist, having taken part in road racing and speedway, so it was only natural that Joel should show an interest in bikes, though few can claim to have had a bike at the age of seven as he did.

By the time he was eighteen he had already ridden in an international event and represented Belgium in the Trophee des Nations team event in 1961. He was in the team again in 1962 at Shrubland Park but did little to distinguish himself during that season, and even less in 1963, which can only be described as disastrous for he was beset with mechanical troubles at meeting after meeting.

So to 1964 when he signed for the Czechoslovakian CZ concern. He rode in England at the Easter television team scramble and went out on the first lap with a drowned engine — not a very impressive performance, but that drowning almost marked the turn of the tide. No points from the first championship meeting in Spain, then on home ground he won the second round and the next three on the trot. A first, second and third since have put him in a commanding position for the championship. a fearless rider on a very fast, reliable machine. If he wins, then at 20 he will be the youngest-ever moto-cross champion and fully deserving of his title. •