Two of the greatest riders of all time Belgians Georges Jobe and Great Britain's Dave Thorpe have fought hard to win the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations. Due to the brilliance of Team USA in the 1980's and 90's it was only Jobe who was able to score an MXoN victory, and that was in 1980, the year before Team USA went on their 13 year winning streak.

Both riders enjoy the atmosphere of the event and both know that the 2012 MXoN, set for Lommel this coming weekend, is going to be special. Thorp competed several times and was on the podium in several timesoccasions, even finishing just one point behind Team USA one year. Fine performances in 1981, 82, 86, and 89 where he battled hard against the likes of Dave Bailey and Jeff Ward.



Jobe also has his share of success, that single team win in 1980, plus podiums in 82, 83 and 87. Still though it was tough to win when Team USA had a strong selection of riders to pick from.



"I can't wait," Thorpe said. "I think it's going to be difficult to beat either Jeffrey Herlings or Antonio Cairoli individually, those guys both know Lommel well and ride there all the time. In saying that, the Americans always come ready and you can't count those guys out. As a Team they look strong, but don't count out Team Great Britain, with a little luck they would win it."



"I always loved racing for Team Great Britain, it was a highlight of the season, where you were also able to race against riders from the American series, riders you never raced before."



As for Jobe, he won't be at the event as he struggles with sickness in a Belgian hospital. Fighting cancer Jobe will be watching on television and is looking forward to what he feels might be one of the best Motocross of Nations for many years.



"I think it's going to be a special event," Jobe said. "I don't think Team USA will have it all their own way, I think it will be different this year. Belgium has a very strong team and Lommel will be very different to what the American riders are used to."



"I was lucky enough to win in 1980, but I was injured the first year Team USA won in Lommel, I was injured and missed that race. I am happy to say I am the only European rider to be able to win a moto of the Motocross of Nations in America. It was in 1987 when we rode in Unadilla. America won the event, but I won my moto. I am very proud of that moto win."

Photo: Dave Thorpe - Ian Roxburg image

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