Tom Koch wins in the valley – Ernée is getting closer.

How much does a DMX victory mean to Tom Koch just a few weeks before the MXoN in Ernée? From a sporting perspective, Koch certainly left nothing to chance at the DMX Open in Teutschenthal. The Sarholz KTM rider was at the front in every session, winning both starts and then both motos. "I was able to win all the sessions, I was able to win both starts. You can't really do much better than that."

For Koch, it wasn't just about the result. With the Motocross of Nations at the beginning of October, one of the most important events of his season is still to come. Therefore, the race in the valley came at a good time. "It was another good preparation for the upcoming races. There aren't many left. But overall, it was a good day for me."

Koch was also satisfied with the track. Comparing the spectator turnout to a Grand Prix would be somewhat unfair at a DMX event anyway. "The track preparation was good. The spectator numbers are obviously not like at a GP, that's clear. But overall it was good."

Koch and Ludwig still as opponents

Noah Ludwig, Koch's future teammate for Ernée, was also at the starting gate in Teutschenthal. Koch will take over the MXGP class at the MXoN, while Ludwig, after his late nomination, will start in the Open category. Valentin Kees completes Team Germany on the 250cc bike.

Koch and Ludwig are still racing against each other, though. "I think it's good for Noah and me to race again under race conditions. We can push each other hard. It was definitely good training for both of us."

However, this duel ended early in the second moto. Ludwig dropped out, giving Koch a large lead and allowing him to cruise to his second victory without immediate pressure.

All in all, it was a near-perfect DMX day for him. He also praised the organizers' work afterwards. "The club put in a lot of effort and prepared the track really well. All in all, a very simple, straightforward, and successful event."

Drehna is likely to be the dress rehearsal

Teutschenthal is unlikely to have been Koch's last race before the MXoN. His next race is probably the ADAC MX Masters final in Fürstlich Drehna on [date missing]. 26. und 27. September That's quite convenient in the calendar: Just one week later, Koch will be competing for Germany in Ernée.

This means Fürstlich Drehna will likely serve as the actual dress rehearsal. Three more Masters Motocross races, then it's practically straight to France.

Teutschenthal was a good intermediate step. Two starts, two wins, and a chef who didn't have much go wrong on Sunday. The resistance is likely to be greater in Drehna – and even more so a week later in Ernée.

Click here for the results from Teutschenthal