The 2025 Scott Trial delivered one of its most dramatic finishes in years, with Jonathan Richardson (Vertigo) taking the top spot after an epic battle across moorland, rocks, and relentless sections. George Hemingway (Beta) pushed the veteran hard on his debut but ultimately fell just short by two marks in a gripping showdown. Richardson’s winning mix of speed and consistency, in what was only his second Scott win (the first in 2011), proved decisive.
Key Stats & Standout Performances
- Winner: Jonathan Richardson (Vertigo) — 0 marks + 33 time = 33 total
- Runner-up: George Hemingway (Beta) — 10 marks + 25 time = 35 total
- 3rd Place: Richard Sadler (Vertigo) — 18 marks + 27 time = 45 total
- Fastest Time: Richardson — 4h 46m 35s
- Best on Observation: Jack Peace (Sherco) — just 18 marks lost
Close Call for the Young Gun
Seventeen-year-old George Hemingway delivered a sensational performance in his first Scott appearance. He was in contention deep into the trial and finished agonizingly close — just 2 marks behind Richardson. His debut run will be talked about for a long time. Though he didn’t take the top step, Hemingway also secured the Herbert Scott Cup as best first timer.
Full Podium & Notables
The top three in the Gold Spoon class:
- 1st Jonathan Richardson (Vertigo)
- 2nd George Hemingway (Beta)
- 3rd Richard Sadler (Vertigo)
Other strong performances included:
- Jack Peace (Sherco) — best on observation, finishing 4th overall
- Jack Dance (GASGAS) — a solid top-5 finish
- Arnau Farré (Sherco) — held up well in the tough terrain
Conditions & Course Challenge
Conditions were relatively kind compared to past years — a chilly start followed by dry skies made for faster lines and fewer slip risks. The one-lap course spanned about 80 miles with 76 observed sections, maintaining the Scott’s trademark mix of endurance, technical sections, and time pressure. That said, riders lost very few marks in some sections, putting premium on clean riding and minimal foot dabs. Jack Peace’s observation score of 18 reflected his mastery in those sections.
Special Awards & Highlights
- Eddie Flintoff Rosebowl (Standard Time): Richardson with 4h 46m 35s
- Herbert Scott Cup (Best First-Timer): George Hemingway
- T Cowie Trophy (Best U21): George Hemingway
- MHT Trophy (Best Female): Alice Minta (Beta) :
- Best Manufacturers Team (Scott Trophy): Vertigo (Richardson, Sadler, Lampkin)