Despite the tribulations of having 2020 scratched, the 2021 Trial des Nations is set for Gouveia, Portugal, September 17-19. After launching in Europe in 1983, the event had brought together the best Trials riders in the world each year until the pandemic postponement. The U.S. team finished 3rd in 2019 and returning riders Daniel Blanc-Gonnet, Josh Roper and Alex Myers — who served as the alternate — have some unfinished business to address this weekend. The U.S. women’s team is also composed of familiar faces as Maddie Hoover and Kylee Sweeten return to the international stage.
“The men and women’s U.S. Trial des Nations teams are ready to tackle the slick creek type sections of Gouveia, Portugal!” said U.S. International Trophy team rider Blanc-Gonnet, who is also serving as the interim team manager. “With solid performances from each of our team members in the U.S. Championship, we are confident they will perform well in their respective classes. A big thank you to everyone who donated to the team, without your generosity this would not have been possible!”
The U.S. women’s team will be competing with only two riders, as an AMA EnduroCross conflict keeps Louise Forsley from rounding out the team. Although a disadvantage, the rules allow a team to be classified if two of its riders finish. Only the best two results per team are counted.
Although Spain has dominated the World Championship class, the U.S. has made some noise with their recent International Trophy finishes. Prior to placing third in 2019, the U.S. men’s team claimed second in both 2017 and 2018. Sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, the U.S. effort is organized by the American Motorcyclist Association and the North American Trials Council.