U.S. men's and women's Trophy Teams win ISDE

Nov 17, 2019

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It was a double victory for the United States as both the men's and women's Trophy Teams won the FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) this weekend, the first for the men since 2016 and the first for the women since 2007.

The men's team of Ryan Sipes, Kailub Russell, Taylor Robert and Steward Baylor, all riding KTMs, rode steadily and nearly error-free all week to finish ahead of defending champions, the Australians, with Italy finishing third.

Ryan Sipes celebrates victory — Ryan Sipes celebrates his second ISDE victory. KTM photo.

“It’s an amazing feeling to win the FIM ISDE,” said Sipes. “It was an honor to be on the team when we first won it in Spain in 2016 and now to have this moment again is incredible. It’s been a real team effort this week. I think everyone came together to deliver this winning result."

The U.S. women's Trophy Team of Rebecca Sheets and Brandy Richards on KTMs and Tarah Gieger riding a Honda backed up the men's win with a victory of their own, ending a six-year winning streak by Australia. Germany finished second and Great Britain third.

Brandy Richards racing in the ISDE — Brandy Richards in action at the ISDE in Portugal. KTM photo.

“The nerves were really high coming into today," said Richards. "I think everyone was so relieved to cross the finish line as world champions. The FIM ISDE is so tough. It wears you down, but you’ve just got to keep fighting. We did that and now finally the victory is ours. Also, with the boys winning the FIM World Trophy class too, it’s certainly put the United States on top!”

The U.S. team also finished second in the FIM Junior World Trophy category.

This year's event in Portugal was the 94th running of the ISDE. Italy will host the competition next year.