British trio James Dobb, Mark Eastwood and Kurt Nicoll restored national pride with a fine third place in the 1997 Motocross des Nations at Nismes in Belgium.

Nicolleo won the opening race and Dobb was top 125 rider overall in a thrilling event won by the host nation with Italy second and Britain third.

Britain led after the first race and went into the final 30 minute moto tied on points with Belgium and Italy. Wordl champions Stefan EVerts and Joel Smets along with team mate Marnicq Bervoets, ensured Belgium's second win in three years.

World 125 champion Alessio Chiodi. Claudio Federici and Andrea Bartolini took second overall for Italy. German Pit Beirer was the top rider on the day with a double victory in the 250 class.

 But the real shock was the failure of defending champions USA. Steve Lamson, John Dowd and Jeff EMig were totally outclassed amd finished in a lowly eigth place.