IDM Supersport 600: Enderlein fends off Vugrinec's attacks

It remained unclear who would win the first race of the IDM Supersport 600 until the very last lap. “SpiderMartin” Vugrinec (Yamaha) was right on the heels of local hero Max Enderlein (Yamaha), with barely a sheet of paper fitting between the two Yamaha riders. In the end, the Saxon arrow was in the lead, but Enderlein had to admit: “I had imagined a victory at home would be easier. The track is 500 meters from my front door.” Although he knew someone was behind him, Enderlein didn’t look back even once. The victory is a boost for Enderlein, as it propels him forward in the championship standings. Current leader Sander Kroeze (Yamaha) finished fifth.

Vugrinec, who finished second, seemed a bit disappointed. The Croatian-born driver, who lives in Bochum, was happy to have secured a podium finish after a disappointing start to the season, but a spot higher up would have been better. When he shifted into the wrong gear three laps before the end, he had to accept that it was over.

For Vugrinec, the season isn’t over yet despite the rough start. “I’m a fighter,” says the 21-year-old. “I’m not riding under pressure, but completely free, so anything is still possible.” Vugrinec could race in the IDM Superbike 1000 next year—he’s already been asked—but he’s drawn to the Supersport World Championship. Luca Grünwald, who finished third in the first race, prevailed in the internal Kawasaki duel against Gabriel Noderer.

In the IDM Superstock 600 class, newcomer Jan-Ole Jähnig (Yamaha) shone. He won the first race right off the bat, ahead of Paul Fröde (Honda) and Moritz Jenkner (Yamaha). Jenkner had performed brilliantly in practice but struggled with a tire that was wearing out during the race. “Luckily, there’s still a second race,” he said hopefully.