Burts Smashes the Valleys Extreme Enduro at the Walters Arena
It was Game On in South Wales this weekend as the world’s top Hard Enduro riders descended on the legendary Walters Arena for the Valleys Extreme, the explosive first round of the World Extreme Championship—and what a way to kick off the season!
With exceptional dry and dusty conditions, Burts was gunning for a podium finish and ended the weekend by storming into the world top 10 at this World Extreme Enduro opener.
With over 500 entries and more than 30 Pro riders on the start list, the stage was set for a showdown of epic proportions. A substantial prize fund covering the top 15 finishers added fuel to an already fierce championship opener. This was no warm-up—this was full send from the get-go.
Triple D Team rider and the gaffer's son Burts Crayston riding for KTM UK, Baydale Systems, and Drinkwater Mushrooms was against a world-class field. Arriving quietly confident he delivered, big time!
Saturday kicked off with a high-intensity sprint race to determine grid positions. Burts came out swinging, claiming 9th overall in qualifying to make a powerful statement in a stacked field.
The Saturday final delivered fireworks, with a line-up bursting with international talent. But Burts wasn't phased, riding like a man possessed, tearing through the course and bagging a phenomenal 5th place. A mega result for the junior rider who is increasingly being recognised in the global spotlight.
“Burts went off the line like a rat up ya trousers after some cheese snack!” was the description from Neil as he left in the dust behind the start line.
Sunday brought an entirely different race format—more brutal terrain, more punishing obstacles—but Burts rode consistently, finishing 10th in the main event and, crucially, 2nd Junior overall in the world to date. Yes, you read that right—2nd best junior in the world right now based on events to date!
With a 6th place in the knockout race sandwiched in between, the numbers don’t lie: 9th, 6th, 10th, and 2nd Junior home. A blistering start to the season.
Triple D’s Neil Crayston shared his pride en route to the event, noting that Burts was “feeling good” and coming into the race on his full-spec KTM 300 EXC. Conditions were dry, the bike was dialled, and the team had done their homework. The results proved it.
This wasn't just a strong opening but a statement of intent for the rest of the season. With momentum like this, the Triple D team are charging into 2025 as ones to watch.
For now though, hats off to Burts Crayston—top 10 in the world, 2nd Junior, and a huge performance to light up the valleys. WOW!
