The long winter break of the DOWATEK HardEnduroSeries Germany ends on Saturday in Reetz. The signs once again point to an exciting season, as everything is open again for both the daily victories and the championship decision. Until then, on October 5, 2024, in Schwepnitz, a total of 7 races will be held this season. The kickoff in Reetz promises special excitement with around 140 participants; never before have so many riders been registered in Reetz. All the season's favorites are at the start. However, there will likely be a new championship winner, as both Kevin Gallas and Marc Wulf will be absent from the kickoff. Only the two-time title holder, Leon Hentschel, who ended last season with a victory, could claim his third title. Wulf, as well as Milan Schmüser, will initially be absent due to injury. Both, however, are expected to return to competition in the second half of the season.
The defending champion Marc Wulf has at least hinted at his presence at the track in most races. Besides Leon Hentschel, other riders are moving into the favorite position. Foremost among them are Lenny Geretzky and Felix Bähker, who could shake up the field.
Both managed to secure victories last season and had championship chances until the end of the season. As the past years have shown, however, it could be a completely different rider who emerges at the top in the end. Initial tendencies will certainly be recognizable next weekend.
Over 40 juniors participating in the season opener.
Last year, Felix Bähker claimed the junior title, thus advancing to the PRO class. His biggest rival, Lenny Geretzky, was injured before the final and could only watch as the Black Forest rider took the title from him.
Therefore, Geretzky is now the clear favorite. He is already in full racing mode, having completed two races in the Italian championship.
Also highly motivated is Henry Strauss, the 15-year-old KTM rider who has already competed in many races this season and even outperformed Edward Hübner at the ECHT Endurocup last weekend.
With over 40 juniors participating, the popularity of the series among youngsters is evident in Reetz, especially considering its extensive social media reach.
New senior champions on the horizon?
Since the two dominant drivers of the last season in the senior category are absent at the start, there could also be a new champion here. Both Andreas Pieper and Reini Rauch will be starting at the ÖEC in Austria this weekend, as this series is entering its final season, and they want to be part of it. Therefore, Tino Bauer could emerge as the favorite. After a serious injury, he is fit again and could benefit from it.
The return of Maria Franke.
In Reetz, Maria Franke will still be absent, but from Crimmitschau onwards, the champion of the 2022 season plans to make her return to the series. She will then meet Eva Täuber, who dominated last year. With 10 women already confirmed in Reetz, things are looking promising, and there could be surprises.
Completely open decisions among the amateurs.
From the top 5 amateurs of last season, only 2 riders remain in contention for 2024. Champion Lukas Debus would need to move up to the Pro class, but like Max Rutz, he is opting out of this season.
Therefore, Florens Brucklacher could emerge as the favorite. He finished third last year. With Peter Fakler now competing among the professionals, he should also have good chances.
The first rounds will be held on Saturday starting at 8:45 a.m. at the Mühlenberg in Reetz.
Then, during the ACE Bikes Prolog Award, we will see who has trained the best.
For the latest information on the DOWATEK HardEnduroSeries Germany, visit www.hardenduro-germany.de and follow us on social media.
Photos: Michel238pic/Michel Kuchel, GrenzNic640/Silvio Gessner
