Sunderland celebrates GasGas’s Dakar win in Mattihhofen

The entire GASGAS family congratulated Sam Sunderland on his outstanding performance at Dakar Rally in Mattighoffen in Australia, with history made for the manufacturer in just their third try at the Dakar. For Pierer Mobility AG which includes KTM and Husqvarna, it also marked their 19th title.

To celebrate the 2022 Dakar victory in style, Sam Sunderland handed over the trophy at the Headquarters to Stefan Pierer, before riding his winning Dakar bike through various buildings to the delight of all employees.

Sam Sunderland

“It’s incredible to celebrate my Dakar win with everyone from GASGAS, I will remember this day forever. This really was a team effort with so many people at the factory in Austria fully behind the rally program, so it’s amazing to share this special result with all of them. This Dakar win really does feel so much better than my first! It’s my first rally win with GASGAS and things couldn’t have gone any better. The bike worked perfectly from the start, which made things a lot easier, as this year’s race was one of the toughest I’ve ever done. It’s been five years since my first win and with it being such a tight race this year, it makes this victory much sweeter.”

Stefan Pierer – CEO PIERER Mobility AG

“Winning our 19th Dakar Rally title and to bring back the trophy to Mattighofen is a very special moment for everyone here in the company. It clearly underlines our commitment to this very special event and writes a positive new chapter in our incredible Dakar history. Sam’s performance was truly impressive. With the support of the GASGAS team, he managed the race perfectly, fighting hard and using his experience perfectly. This is a result everyone involved in GASGAS can be very proud of.”

Pit Beirer – Motorsport Director

“Sam has done an incredible job at this year’s Dakar. It was a long fight, with many challenges to overcome, but with the support of the whole Motorsports team he was able to bring the trophy back to Austria. We are so proud of all the hard work the whole GASGAS team have put in to achieve their first Dakar win – it’s an historic victory and hopefully just the first success in what will be a successful year for the brand. When you think about what goes into a race like Dakar – the preparation, the logistics, the trucks, everything that goes on behind the scenes – all of this must come together to claim a win at one of the toughest events on the motorsport calendar. This is another important step in the onward progression of the GASGAS brand.”

Robert Jonas – Vice President Motorsports Offroad

“To win the Dakar Rally is a huge achievement for both Sam and the GASGAS Factory Racing team. We are extremely proud of the victory and definitely thankful to the hard work of so many. Sam did an amazing job, maintaining good speed and consistency at this year’s race, as well as navigating well through every stage to ensure he stayed near the top of the standings. And with such a dedicated team behind him, that performance was rewarded with a win at the world’s toughest rally raid. Congratulations to Sam and the whole of GASGAS Factory Racing.”

Riders Talk 2022 AMA Supercross Round Four, Anaheim II

450 Main

Ken Roczen took the early lead ahead of Shane McElrath, Malcolm Stewart and Jason Anderson. Eli Tomac was fifth ahead of Marvin Musquin and Chase Sexton on lap one.

Malcolm Stewart moved up to second place on the following lap and then both Jason Anderson, and Eli Tomac, followed by Chase Sexton pushed McElrath further back to sixth.

Jason Anderson was on a charge and took Stewart for second place, two laps later Tomac did the same to relegate to Stewart back to fourth.

Jason Anderson reeled in Ken Roczen and the two then collided in the sand resulting in Roczen going down. Roczen was all the way down in 18th place by the time he was back up and running, while Anderson now led the race.

Meanwhile Chase Sexton had moved up to third place after passing Stewart.

Jason Anderson then jumped a little too far through a rhythm section and ran wide which allowed Tomac through to the lead.

Tomac then took it home all the way to the chequered flag and now leads the championship by six-points over Chase Sexton, the Honda man finished third tonight.

The second place for Anderson moved him up to third place in the points standings.

Ken Roczen managed to make his way back up to 13th but that was a hefty blow to his title aspirations, the German drifting back to ninth place on the points table. However, things are still pretty tight as he is only 23-points away from the championship lead, and there is a hell of a lot of racing still to go this season.

Supercross next heads to Glendale in Arizona for round five of what is a 17-round championship.

Eli Tomac – P1

“It feels great to get this win. It also feels good to get this win for everyone behind me. The team has been working so hard, and what we’ve been able to do and how we’ve been able to improve each weekend is awesome. We’ve just been inching our way forward and fine-tuning every week, so it feels so good to get everyone that result that we all work for. The track was so cool, with really technical rhythm sections, and my motorcycle was so good tonight. I could put it wherever I wanted to – inside, outside – and it was good for the distance, so that’s exciting for us.”

Jason Anderson – P2

“To come away with second tonight was solid. I felt a bit off all day and that led to a few mistakes in the heat race which set me back as far as gate pick. When it came time for the Main Event, I knew I could put it all together aboard my KX™450SR and fight for a win on this track. I made the most of the start and came out of the first turn about fifth. I executed a few really quick passes to get out front and was leading the race until I mistimed that triple-triple line after the finish. I was able to get the rhythm clean the rest of the race and my speed was strong throughout. It’s nice to have a podium finish tonight, I just have a few things to clean up to improve for next weekend.”

Chase Sexton – P3

“I felt really good tonight. This weekend the whoops section of the track was unpredictable and had a lot of edges, but I feel like I managed them well. The track was good though. I had fun all day. It was a pretty technical track especially with a long set of whoops and a long rhythm section that was pretty tough. It was nice to have a long lap time and not so many laps in the main event though. My bike felt good all day but it’s an ongoing process; I just have to be better. I stalled my bike once but only lost a second or so. Eli [Tomac] and Jason [Anderson] were riding really good, but I expect to be in the mix with the frontrunners this year. Last year I learned a lot so I’m trying not to make those mistakes I made last year. I want to be on the podium every weekend and racing with these guys. I just have to get better for next weekend.”

Dylan Ferrandis – P4

“We had a really challenging track, but I was feeling good on the bike, and the lap times were great all day. I finally got a good start in the heat race, which I was really happy about, and finished third. In the main event, I went on the outside, which wasn’t ideal, but I didn’t really have a nice spot on the inside. It was an okay start, but I got pinched in the first turn and was pretty far back in position. Then I just charged the best I could, made many passes, and finished fourth. The bike is good, and I felt strong in the whoops, so there are a lot of positives from today, but after the podium last week, I wish I would have finished on the box again. This season, the competition is tough, so it’s not always easy. I just gave everything I had, and fourth was my position today.”

Marvin Musquin – P6

“I wanted to rebound this weekend and not do what I did last weekend. I was in a decent position off the start and made a mistake, missed a rhythm and lost one or two spots, but I ended up sixth tonight. I had the potential to do a little better but man, it was difficult for me through the whoops, I was losing time there, but the rest of the track I was doing great. Overall, a little bit more consistent Main Event, a little better fight and we move forward to the next round.”

Justin Barcia – P7

“All-in-all, it was a good day. We were having a lot of fun in practice! I felt like it was one of my better practices of the year so far and I was getting comfortable on the bike. I got a really bad start in the Main Event and with how the field is so fast right now, I wasn’t able to get where I wanted to be so seventh was the best finish I could pull off tonight. I’m going to go back to the drawing board, get my starts dialed and we’ll be back in Phoenix and ready to be back on the podium!”

Cooper Webb – P8

“Extremely tough night tonight at A2. I didn’t get a great start and I was pretty buried in the pack early on. I was able to make some passes and get up to around seventh, and then ended up falling backwards a few spots. I was able to get back up, make some more passes and ended up eighth. Definitely not a great night at all, but the only thing we can do now is regroup and try to get better for next weekend in Arizona.”

Ken Roczen – P13

“Our weekend was a nightmare. I’ve been struggling lately with my bike setup, just not really getting comfortable. It was a tough one for us but we did decent; when nighttime comes, it seems like we always get our stuff together. I got second in the heat race, and we got the holeshot in the main event. Things were going pretty decent. I struggled with the whoops so that was definitely not my strong point; I almost went down there once, and the same lap I got taken down by [Jason] Anderson – unfortunately left the door open. Probably not the right turn for him to put on a pass, but obviously it got me and I crashed pretty hard right there. I had to make a stop after that to get all the sand out of my goggles, and our night was pretty much over after that; I could only salvage 13th place, but we never gave up. We’re quite a few points down. It’s a bummer, but I’m looking forward to next weekend to get some consistency in and do some training and riding; I couldn’t really do that last week. Hopefully we’ll head to Phoenix with a bit more confidence and more riding time under my belt.”

450 Main Results

450 Championship Standings (Round 4 of 17)

250 Main

Vince Friese and Michael Mosiman got the best starts but Christian Craig was soon on the move and up to third after the first few turns.  Jo Shimoda then took the battle back up to Craig to move back up to that third position. Jalek Swoll and Hunter Lawrence were fifth and sixth respectively at this early juncture.

Mosiman moved through to the lead as Friese and Craig tussled over second position, after the championship leader had got the better of Shimoda once again. Their battle was allowing Mosiman to break away a little. Hunter Lawrence was now up to  fourth with 12-minutes still left on the shot clock.

Christian Craig eventually broke away from Friese and chased down Mosiman. With five-minutes remaining Craig put a fairly stiff move on Mosiman, the GASGAS rider came back at him at the next turn and could have pushed him over the edge but instead kept his riding clean and stayed in second, that was a pivotal moment in the race.

Hunter Lawrence was attacking the track while trying to look for a way past Vince Friese for third place with two-minutes left on the clock. Jo Shimoda was not out of that battle either and could capitalise if either Friese or Lawrence make a mistake. The situation was tight with two laps to run.  Friese then went down in the whoops, perhaps succumbing to the pressure from Lawrence, Shimoda then hit Friese as the Kawasaki man had nowhere to go, it was ugly but both men were okay.

Up front Christian Craig had pulled away from Mosiman and that pair looked settled in those 1-2 positions while the incident between Friese and Shimoda had made Lawrence’s third place finish look safe.

Christian Craig went on to victory and with it extended his championship lead over Hunter Lawrence to 11-points.  With second place Michael Mosiman strengthened his third place on the points table and is now only three-points behind Lawrence.

A great consistent start to the season for Lawrence, who, while not visiting the top step on the podium yet, he has been on the podium at every round so far this season.

Supercross next heads to Glendale in Arizona for round five of what is a ten round 250 West Championship.

Christian Craig – P1

“The day started out pretty good. The track was tricky and slippery, but I kept the ball rolling. I qualified well and then went into the heat race, had a good start, and battled with my teammate a little bit. I had a good ride in that one and was able to take the win. In the main event, I just focused on myself and clicked off my laps. I had a good battle with another rider and ended up passing him. I’m stoked to get my third win of the season and extend my points lead. We’re going to try and keep it going and not change anything; just keep doing what I’m doing.”

Michael Mosiman – P2

“I’m stoked to be here! It’s not too often that these things happen and when they do, I’m just going to enjoy it. Such a good race with Christian, he’s riding so good – I learned a thing or two from him and I think he learned a thing or two from me. We had clean racing out there and it was an absolute blast! I’m going to enjoy it tonight and work on some things. I look forward to challenging him all year and see if we can get some more wins.”

Hunter Lawrence – P3

“We had a tough day at Anaheim 2, as we just didn’t have the pace. We were kind of struggling from the get-go – a little behind the eightball from the start; we had our work cut out for us. The track was tough during the main event, and everyone was similar in regards to pace. It wasn’t a track that people got fatigued on at all; it felt like the distance was easy on the track tonight, but the track was rough. It was a tough one, but we’re looking to rebound, come back strong and kick Phoenix off with a bang.”

Nate Thrasher – P4

“It was a good day overall. We had a good qualifying and a good heat race; I just made a couple of mistakes that kind of cost me the win. I didn’t get the best start in the main event and had to come from behind. I just didn’t get around people fast enough and got a little tight there at the end. It wasn’t my best ride, but I felt like I had the speed tonight for a podium and was maybe even able to fight for a win. It was a tough race, and I did the best I could, but it’s not where I want to be. We’re going to keep fighting and keep working, and maybe next weekend, go for a podium.”

Jo Shimoda – P7

“I had an okay start and quickly moved my way to fifth. Most of the race I was in fifth position and just slowly catching up until late in the race when I could see the podium position right there ahead of me. With only a couple of laps left I was really close to third and then Friese crashed in the whoops, and I collided with him. It’s unfortunate that we both fell, but my riding is improving, and I think we made small improvements overall tonight so I’m looking forward to Glendale next weekend.”

250 Main Results

250 West Championship Standings (Round 4 of 10)

Source: MCNews.com.au

Australian Arenacross hits Bacchus March this weekend

Josh and Jess from Protraxx have devised an event to capture the attention of anyone who likes the worlds of MX and SX in the form of the Australian Arenacross. Whether you’re a Pro, seasoned racer or just a rider who enjoys a bit of fun at the track with your mates – or a family after a fun weekend, they’ve got you covered.

The Australian Arenacross powered by Protraxx will introduce a whole mash of MX racing on manicured tracks some freestyle action, to pit party fun, and with a carnival atmosphere consisting of big extreme rides, trade stands and food trucks.

This event is brought to you by nationally recognised motorcycle track building company Protraxx, who build Australia’s supercross stadium, national and club event tracks.

Josh and Jess, owners of Protraxx noticed there was a gap between motocross and supercoss, and decided to fix the issue, creating bridging event between the two disciplines.

The two have set out to create an ultimate fun event, to help close that bridge while increasing the safety for our country’s riders entering the supercross. This event is recognised by MA as a national series.

For more information head to www.australianarenacross.com.au (link)

Weale nabs North Brisbane Cup victory as event returns to calendar

After a two-year hiatus the North Brisbane Cup has returned in 2021, with Cyshan Weale topping the 450 Open results from Jarred Brooke in a weekend of action packed racing.

For the full report see: Cyshan Weale wins 2022 North Brisbane Cup

Kurri Kurri Speedway TT Masters #1 run and won

The Kurri Kurri Speedway Club has run their TT Masters #1 event over the weekend, as the first ever full-on dirt track race meeting to be held at the venue.

A feature of the afternoon/evening race meeting is the inaugural All Stars Discipline Showdown. Two riders from six motorcycle racing disciplines will compete on MX dirt bikes in three back-to-back six lap races with a compulsory on-track pit stop between races 1 and 2 as well as between races 2 and 3.

Michael Kirkness and Paul Caslick topped the All Stars Discipline Showdown, collecting 116-points as the Dirt Track entry. Tied on points in second was the Off-Road team of Beau Ralston and Kodi Stephens, as well as the Speedway team of Sam Masters and Josh Pickering.

Josh Whitehead and Caleb Clifton represented motocross in fourth, ahead of Danny Anderson and Craig Anderson (Supercross), with the Road Racing duo of Tom Edwards and Jack Passfield seventh.

The individual top three saw Ralston win from Kirkness and Pickering.

In the MX 450 class, Ben Grabham has the perfect weekend with three wins for 75-points, with Seth Qualischefski second on 66-points, and Jacob Richardson and Kurtis Tydd typing in third on 50-points.

Top of the MX 250s was Sam Masters on 68-points, going 1-1-4, with Tom Edwards and Tom Drane tied on 58-points in second. Danny Anderson took fourth as a result on 56-points.

Daniel Wicks won the MX Open final, ahead of Josh Whitehead and Caleb Clifton.

Topping the Cobra Bushman class was Eric Smaller from Josh McCosker and Zac Campbell, while Cameron Dunker won the Junior 250s from Cody Lewis and Levi Stephens. Sam Drane swept the Junior 85 class from Lachlan Russell and Zac Brady.

Mario Roman wins 2022 Ales Trem Hard Enduro

The Ales Trem Hard Enduro returned to action over the weekend and saw 500 racers line up for the event in Southern France, kicking off the season with every rider taking two runs of the Xtrem Sprint Test, with Wade Young looking strong.

It was Alfredo Gomez who topped the Saturday prologue, which ended the day under lights, with plenty of challenges including a bent gear level at one point, before passing Romans for the win.

A long Sunday of racing would be the deciding factor however, with the Alex Trem truly earning the name of hard enduro, with just three riders eventually finishing the day.

The top three were Roman, Young and Gomez who led through the first two two-hour laps, posting the fastest time, with nightfall adding further challenges that saw the final lap take three hours to complete.

Disaster also struck for Wade Young who ran out of fuel just short of the fimish while battling for the lead, which allowed Roman to run away with it, while Gomez also snuck past for second place. That regulated Young to third, but still being able to lay claim to being one of the few finishers.

The result further cemends Mario Roman’s title as most successful Ales Trem rider, ahead of Jonny Walker and Graham Jarvis, neither of whom competed this year.

2022 Ales Trem Hard Enduro Results

Harley Club of Victoria Junior Come & Try Day

The Harley Club of Victoria is running a Junior Come & Try Day at Broadford on February 5, at 8:00 am, offering beginners looking to get into the sport or more experienced riders wanting to kick off their season some time on track a chance to get out there.

The cost of entry is $40, with no need for a day licence and Harley Club Members who bring a friend who has never tried it before will get to ride for free.

Bikes larger than 150 cc need to run a trials rear tyre and there will be a canteen open for food, drinks and of course coffee. Sign on runs from 8-9 am before riding commences. For more information head to The Harley Club of Victoria’s Facebook page (link).

2022 ProMX Round 1 entries now open

Entries for the 2022 Penrite ProMX Championship, presented by AMX Superstores have opened for Round 1 at Wonthaggi, Victoria scheduled to run March 27, 2022.

Due to a number of classes being oversubscribed in 2021, ProMX are encouraging riders to enter early in order to avoid disappointment, with entries available via RiderNet or a link at competitor info on the ProMX Website. Entires will be closing Sunday March 20, at 11:59 pm.

As of January 20, 2022, as directed by Govt and Health Authorities, the venue can only permit entry for all personnel who are double vaccinated. Proof of double vaccination or a medical exemption is a requirement for entry.

Entries are capped at 48 for all classes, excluding MX3 which is capped at 60, and will close for each round at 11.59pm the Sunday prior to the round. The fastest 40 competitors from qualifying will be eligible to start each race. The next two fastest competitors will be reserves. The reserves, if not used, and any competitors who fails to qualify, will have their entry fee refunded minus an administration fee of $100.

Speedway Sidecar Championships shift location for 2022 Titles

After recent changes to the timeframe for the reopening of Western Australia, the venue for the 2022 Australian Speedway Senior Sidecar Championship and the 2022 Australian Speedway Junior Sidecar Championship has had to be changed to ensure the event can go ahead.

The scheduled date of April 16th and 17th remains unchanged.

The event will now move to South Australia (Gillman Speedway) with the Speedway Riders Association of South Australia set to become the new event promoter. Motorcycling Australia thanks Club President Ivan Golding and the members of the Speedway Riders Association of SA for their prompt and generous offer to take on the event for 2022.

The club has a proud history of hosting the Speedway Sidecar titles at Gillman Speedway and has done so four times in the past 15 years: 2008, 2011, 2013 and 2017.

April 16th – Qualifying (for both Snr and Jnr if required)
April 17th – Race (for both Snr and Jnr)

• Venue: Gillman Speedway
• Promoter: Speedway Riders Association of SA
• Contact: Club President – Ivan Golding [email protected] 0417 138 378
• The titles will return to Western Australia in 2023 on the 8th – 9th April (The 2023 Easter long-weekend).

AMX Superstores throws support behind Australian MX Invitational

The AMX Superstores Australian Motocross Invitation is set to take place at the Nowra Speedway on February 19-20, featuring two marquee Motocross events. Saturday will witness the AMX MotoX Skins Motocross Invitation Only line up of Australia’s best Motocross riders competing for over $20,000 in prize money.

Sunday will see the AMX MotoX Future Stars event, showcasing the best junior Motocross riders compete on the purpose-built Motocross track.

The rider line up is soon to be announced but fans can expect to see the best go head to head. The Motocross events will be accompanied by Monster truck madness action on Saturday and Sunday plus a demolition derby to conclude the motorsport weekend on Sunday afternoon.

Tickets to the events are expected to sell out with the decision to cap crowd numbers allowing fans to have additional space between fellow guests. Tickets to the event can be purchased via MAPevents.com.au

Harley-Davidson contingency for flat track 2022 revealed

Harley-Davidson is stepping up its support of flat track and road racing competitors for the 2022 season with cash contingency programs totaling more than $500,000 available for qualified racers.

Harley-Davidson will offer contingency opportunities for racers competing in two classes on the 18-event 2022 Progressive American Flat Track series, the most prestigious and competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing in the world.

Harley-Davidson has committed $225,500 in contingency funds for qualified riders competing in the premiere Mission SuperTwins class, and $195,500 for qualified riders competing in the AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines class.

Harley-Davidson contingency will pay first to 10th place in each class plus a championship bonus – $20,000 for Production Twins and $50,000 for Mission SuperTwins.

The season opens with the Mission Volusia Half-Mile doubleheader, March 10-11, at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Fla. Terms and conditions apply; please see Progressive American Flat Track for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.

Factory Honda Australia team up with HGS

Australia’s Factory Honda Team will be powered by HGS in 2022 under an all-new partnership that will see the championship winning team racing running HGS exhaust components.

HGS was formed in 1988, and founder Henri Gorthuis gained valuable experience and insight working in the world motocross championship.

Henri Gorthuis – HGS Founder

“I worked with John van der Berk in the early 80’s before moving to White Power. I was always working with motorcycles. My father had built exhausts for BSA in the 60’s and 70’s and it was something that interested me. Now my son is involved with the company and together we work on growing HGS throughout the world.”

Performance is at the heart of HGS and this is why Team Director Yarrive Konsky choose HGS, “We tested their range of exhaust systems before making the decision. We don’t comprise performance. We had our Engine builder in America testing with HGS and we also tested in Australia. It was unanimous. Their products perform,” he explained.

Australian Champion Kyle Webster has already experienced success with HGS, he was also involved in the initial testing.

Kyle Webster

“Its always very cool to be involved in testing new product. I started testing the product on the all new CRF250R. HGS did their homework, the overall power was improved, and it improved top end and low end power. On the 450 it was surprisingly good. The standard 450 is fast, you don’t need a lot more power, but the HGS compliments the motor. The connection is great, there is a little more everywhere and it revs out longer, but its smooth. I was pumped with the holeshots we achieved on my way to our maiden win at the AMX MX OPEN last year.”

For more information on HGS in Australia go to the HGS Exhaust Systems Australia website (link).

Will & Levi Campbell to Firepower Honda for 2022

Factory Honda Australia’s team owner Yarrive Konsky has signed Australians Levi and Will Campbell to their newly formed amateur program in America.

Levi and Will Campbell have been racing and training in America since 2016. Team owner Yarrive Konsky first noticed the two riders when he visited MTF in 2019.

Yarrive Konsky

“There are several Australian riders training at MTF, and I am encouraged to see the level of talent coming out of Australia. Levi and Will and several other Australian riders are doing what they need to do to pursue a career in racing. Will achieved outstanding results this year in the Mini O’s with several top fives.”

Since 2016 Levi and William have been trained by Colleen Millsaps and Bryan Johnson.

Will Campbell

“When Yarrive spoke to my parents I was super excited. The success he has achieved with other juniors in Australia is unreal. He has also trained at MTF and its cool to have someone that understands what it takes, plus the teams new manager Martin (Davalos) is one of the best riders and I think I can learn a lot from him also.”

Levi, the elder of the two was happy that their efforts had been noticed and is excited to race for the Firepower Honda team.

Levi Campbell

“The success Yarrive has achieved in America in two short years is awesome. His team has top 5 finishes in the 250 pro class and have been on the podium in the 450 class. In Australia he has the most winningest team in Supercross in the past 10 years. I grew up watching the juniors that rode for him in Australia. Mosig, Phillips, Williamson, McNeil, Berwick, Cachia, he has helped so many and I am excited to learn from him, Martin and Jordon and Jarrett. Being at MTF I have watched Martin for years; he is one of the best riders in America and has over 20 podiums and many career wins. Knowing that he wants to do this gives me confidence that we are doing something right. I already have learnt so much by just watching him, and I can’t wait to learn more from him and the team.”

Troy Campbell the father of Levi and Will is happy that the work his boys have been putting in has been noticed and appreciates the support Yarrive is providing.

This is the team’s first foray into amateur racing in America and their focus will be the Supercross Futures, Lorretta Lynn’s and the Mini O’s. For more information go to www.firepowerhonda.com

Strang and Snodgrass lead Kawasaki GNCC line-up

Kawasaki Team Green has revealed their Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy race team in the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) series, fielding former GNCC champion Josh Strang in the XC1 class aboard the KX450X, alongside his championship contending teammate Lyndon Snodgrass in the XC2 class aboard a KX250X race machine. With the Australian duo back, Kawasaki is poised to continue a long and successful racing relationship with Team Babbitt’s.

Josh Strang

“I’m really excited to get the 2022 race season started this February. Knowing I have such a passionate and supportive group of people that have my back the way everyone at Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki Team Green does, makes it easy to give them my all every day. We’ve put a lot of time into our testing this off-season and have gotten the new KX450X set up even better than before. It’s going to be a good year, I can’t wait!”

Also returning to the Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki Team Green race team are proven GNCC champions Joseph Cunningham and Grant Davis. Both Cunningham and Davis are prepared to battle with the best off-road racers in the GNCC series while piloting the 2022 KX250X motorcycle.

The race team’s new season will once again take place at the fast and wide-open course at Big Buck Farms in Union, South Carolina, on Saturday, February 19, 2022.

Corey Texter returns to AFT with G&G Racing for 2022

Reigning Production Twins Champion Cory Texter will return to the G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing team for the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season.

Texter will compete for G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing for a fourth consecutive season, with two Mission Production Twins championships (‘19 & ‘21) and one class runner-up (‘20) earned in their three previous campaigns. Last season, he scored seven wins and 11 podiums en route to an 85-point championship margin.

G&G Racing is a father-and-son-owned team based in Southern California that is supported by Yamaha Racing. Team owners John and John ‘LJ’ Gronek are pleased to have Texter officially back on board for the upcoming season.

LJ Gronek

“We are thrilled to have Cory back for another year, this will be our fourth season together, and we have really developed a great relationship. We look forward to defending the #1 plate. Cory works hard and never quits. And we work hard to provide him with the best Yamaha MT-07s possible to allow him to do his best.”

Texter has been onboard the Yamaha MT-07 for three years and is confident heading into the 2022 season.

Corey Texter

“I have been pretty quiet this offseason regarding my plans for 2022. I wasn’t sure what the plan was, honestly. We waited around for the rules package to be announced, and along with my team and sponsors, we made the decision to race another year in the Mission Production Twins class. We had a great 2021, but looking at some of our results, I feel like we have a lot of room to improve, and we will see where that puts us for the future. I bought an MT-07 practice bike that G&G Racing built for me that I will be able to test this winter, which is something that I feel will really benefit our program. I am enjoying the process and eager to continue training hard as we get ready to get back at it in a few short months.”

Roof Systems of Dallas, Texas, will once again be a major supporter of Texter, along with Mission Foods, Parts Unlimited, Drag Specialties, McElroy Packaging, Kicker Audio, Motul USA, Bell Helmets, Fredericktown Yamaha, Klock Werks, Motion Pro, Alpinestars, AIM Sports and Mike Butler Racing.

Cory will bring the fans behind the scenes this season via a new YouTube series produced by Taylor Treadwell. The series will show lifestyle and race related videos from Texter’s endeavors with his family traveling the country racing in the Progressive American Flat Track series. Find the Cory Texter Racing channel and subscribe to follow the updates.

Source: MCNews.com.au

13-rider GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing Team ready for 2022

Now in its 15th year as a lynch pin in Yamaha Australia’s national racing program, Yamaha Junior Racing continues to produce not just results but high-quality riders who have gone onto achieve much bigger things in racing. With a state’-based coach and mentor, Yamaha Junior Racing works closely with the rider and the families to ensure each rider gets the attention and focus they need and fast track their development.

GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing also receives significant support from a range of companies that have continued to invest in junior racing for some time. Alongside Yamaha, Yamalube and GYTR sit quality brands like Dunlop, Scott, Just 1, DID chains, JT Sprockets and NGK Sparkplugs.

With riders able to join YJR at the age of eight on a YZ65, they can pass through each division as they progress to the YZ85, the all new YZ125 and the class leading YZ250F at the age of 16.

Then with the structure of Yamaha professional race teams, riders can move through WBR Yamaha, Yamalube Yamaha, Serco Yamaha to the pinnacle in Australia, The CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team. Even now three riders who have progressed from YJR are working with our professional teams in the last two years.

The 2022 rider line-up remains relatively unchanged as the last two years have been super successful for Yamaha Junior Racing riders, despite the covid issues. Over 25 state championships won in 2020 and 2021 means the line up is already strong and developing nicely.

The riders for 2022 are Deegan Fort and Jake Rumens from Western Australia, Wil Carpenter and Ryder Woodrow from South Australia, Jay Jennings and Angus Pearce from Tasmania, Pat Martin and Jobe Dunne from Victoria, Heath Davy, Kayd Kingsford and Seth Burchell from New South Wales, Jake Cannon and Kobe Drew from Queensland.

No other manufacturer can offer or invests in the junior segment of the sport and Yamaha’s long term and consistent approach has made it the team of choice for all up and coming riders.

Scott Bishop – Yamaha

“Yamaha Junior Racing continues to be the leader in emerging motocross talent in Australia with the most comprehensive package to offer riders and families. Over the past 15 years, many riders have successfully passed through Yamaha Junior Racing and gone onto bigger and better things both nationally and internationally and tis something we will continue to strive for in the future. Motocross is a great sport and can present many experiences and opportunities to hard working riders and we will continue to work closely with riders and families to assist them in achieving their goals, both as a person and as an athlete.”

The first hit out for several riders will be the upcoming Coffs Harbour Stadium MX on January 14. State based racing gets underway in February across the eastern seaboard with SA and WA getting their state championships started by April.

Many of the riders in Yamaha Junior Racing will be able to compete in the newly formed MX3 class at the Pro MX championship and hopefully, Rockhampton in Queensland will finally get to run the Australian Junior Motocross Championships in September after two years of Covid postponements.

2022 GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing Team riders

• Western Australia
  • Deegan Fort – YZ65 / YZ85
  • Jake Rumens – YZ125/ YZ250F
• South Australia
  • Wil Carpenter – YZ125/ YZ250F
  • Ryder Woodrow – YZ85
• Victoria
  • Pat Martin – YZ125/ YZ250F
  • Jobe Dunne – YZ85
• Tasmania
  • Angus Pearce – YZ125/ YZ250F
  • Jay Jennings – YZ85
• New South Wales
  • Seth Burchell – YZ125/ YZ250F
  • Kayd Kingsford- YZ85 / YZ125
  • Heath Davy – YZ65 / YZ85
• Queensland
  • Kobe Drew – YZ125/ YZ250F
  • Jake Cannon – YZ125 /YZ250F

Coffs Harbour Stadium MX races January 15

The 2022 Coffs Harbour Stadium MX will kick off the MX/SX season in Northern NSW across two days over the weekend, running across Friday January 14 and Saturday the 15th.

Classes start at 50cc Demonstration (4-7 years), and go all the way up to our professional MX2 and MX1 classes which will see newcomers to STMX and some of Australia’s best motocross and supercross talent battle it out!

Big names for the Coffs Harbour Stadium MX currently include Dean Ferris, Luke Clout, Aaron Tanti and Matt Moss.

Gates open at 9am Friday for practice and qualifying. Saturday is racing that runs through until 10pm at night. There will be plenty to see with merchandise and lots of fun packed action for the whole family!

You can buy tickets here via OzTix (link).

Coffs Harbour Stadium MX schedule

Toby Price ninth with four Dakar 2022 stages to go

Toby Price finished Stage 8 of the 2022 Dakar Rally in sixth place today, a result that moved him up to ninth in the overall standings, 32-minutes off current leader Sam Sunderland, with a measured and cautious approach seeming a wise choice as the war of attrition sees more and more riders drop out due to injuries and crashes.

With times closing up at the top of the rankings, and four more long days left to race, the experienced Aussie knows that a podium result is still well within his reach.

Toby Price – P6

“It wasn’t too bad today. I got through most of the stage pretty well, I did make a couple of mistakes, but it’s hard to be absolutely perfect out there. The liaisons from today have meant it’s been a really long day in the saddle. All-in-all the bike was really good though and I’m ready for another day.”

The week ended before it began for GasGas mounted fellow Australian Daniel Sanders, who crashed on Stage 7, fracturing his left elbow and wrist, ending up in hospital and ending his 2022 Dakar Rally efforts from a third place position overall.

Daniel Sanders

“Disappointed to end the rally like this… We had a good shot at it this year but luckily I have many to come. Thanks everyone.”

Sam Sunderland won Stage 8, bringing GasGas back into the lead, with Matthias Walkner and Adrien Van Beveren in second and third respectively. Pablo Quintanilla and Joan Barreda round out the top five, with Barreda nine-minutes behind Quintanilla. Five minutes covers the top four for now, with top Sherco Lorenzo Santolino in seventh +21m09s, Stefan Svitko in eighth +26m51s, and Price sits ninth, +32m30s.

Overall After Stage 8

Dobson and Malkiewicz to headline Serco Yamaha efforts

Jesse Dobson will headline the Serco Yamaha outfit for the 2022 season and be partnered with Bailey Malkiewicz who makes his full-time return to Australia after racing abroad in 2020 and 2021. The pairing of Dobson and Malkiewicz makes for a formidable team in the MX2 (250cc) division.

Dobson had been a journeyman racer from the moment he turned pro in 2013 but found a home at Serco Yamaha in 2020 and has come on in leaps and bounds since joining the team. His speed, results and consistency has been on the upswing since day one and culminated with a strong second place finish in the 2021 Pro MX Championships in the MX2 class.

He has also matured off the track and is a dedicated professional racer who now prepares as well as anyone. Dobson takes his racing seriously and has put the right people around him to keep climbing the ladder and for 2022, that means nothing short of championship success.

Jesse Dobson

“Serco Yamaha has been the perfect fit for me, and my career has changed for the better since coming on board in 2020. Gavin, Ben, and Paul all work hard and put in the hard yards to ensure we have what we need to be successful, and we all are driven by winning. There is good chemistry in the team and with each season, our relationship gets stronger, and our results continue to get better. Last year, was good but this year is going to be better. We have started the pre-season earlier, the race bikes will be better, and I feel 2022 is my chance to really make it happen. I’m more motivated than ever and the team are right behind me so I can’t wait to get back behind the gates again and go racing.”

After two seasons of racing in Europe, Bailey Malkiewicz returns to Australia for a full season of domestic racing and looking to re-establish himself as one of the worlds best up and coming racers. At 19 years of age, with a junior world championship already to his name, Malkiewicz’s talent is undeniable, but injuries have slowed his progress for the past two seasons.

But a change of tack in 2022 will see Malkiewicz based not only in Australia but a move to Queensland is on the cards so he will be closer to his Brisbane based team. He is now injury free and now able to complete a full pre-season of training, it will allow him to be primed for a long season of motocross and supercross.

Bailey Malkiewicz

“Since winning the world championship in 2018, I haven’t had the results I have wanted or expected so it’s time to take stock, make some smart decisions and get the right people around me to get things back on track. Serco Yamaha has a great track record and have proven championship results so the opportunity to work with such a successful team was one that I couldn’t pass up. Also being on a YZ250F gives me a lot of confidence as I know just how good that bike is and with the knowledge in the team, I know we will have the best package on the track. I’m ready to go to work and repay the faith Yamaha and Serco have in me.”

Pre- season events get underway in February while the Pro MX championship roars to life in March at Wonthaggi in Victoria.

2022 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Anaheim Round One

Images by Jeff Kardas

450 Main

It was a Honda 1-2 from the off with Ken Roczen and Chase Sexton running through turn one side by side but Roczen maintained the advantage to lead from his team-mate.  Adam Cianciarulo was third ahead of Justin Barcia, Cooper Webb, Jason Anderson, Shane McElrath, Malcolm Stewart and Marvin Musquin while Justin Brayton rounded out the lap one top ten ahead of Eli Tomac.

Roczen continued to lead Sexton but could not break away from his team-mate. Sexton was right on his tail lap after lap and was looking to pounce on any mistake from the German.

Eventually though it was Sexton that made a mistake and after challenging for the lead numerous times the #23 was then relegated to third place as Adam Cianciarulo went through, before Sexton got his act back together.

Sexton then got a bit too frustrated trying to get back past Cianciarulo which saw him drop the bike again and he was then passed by Barcia, Anderson, Webb, Stewart, Musquin and Ferrandis. A massive fall from grace for Sexton.

That kerfuffle had left Roczen with a huge ten-second lead over his pursuers. The closest of which was now Justin Barcia who was closely followed by Jason Anderson and Cooper Webb.

With seven-minutes and two laps still remaining Roczen led Barcia by 11.5-seconds.  Chas Sexton had worked his way back up to seventh after Malcolm Stewart and Marvin Musquin both ended on the deck after tussling for position.

Jason Anderson started to put the pressure on Barcia in the closing stages of the race and Cooper Webb was also looking to capitalise on any mistakes from that pair.  Anderson made his move but a few turns later Barcia returned fire in an aggressive way that left Anderson on the deck and the #21 Kawasaki had been shuffled back to seventh by the time he got back up and running.

The comeback story belonged to early front runner Chase Sexton who after making two falls and drifting right back in the pack, then put his head back down and passed Tomac, Musquin and Cianciarulo to promote himself back up to fourth place with three laps remaining.

At the flag Musquin stole that fourth place back at that final juncture which saw Sexton finish fifth but the Honda man was well ahead of Eli Tomac, Malcolm Stewart, Joey Savatgy and Aaron Plessinger while Jason Anderson rounded out the top ten ahead of Cianciarulo, Wilson and Brayton.

As Ken Roczen got the last lap flag he backed things off which allowed Webb to get the gap back down to under ten seconds as the German just cruised home to a dominant flag to flag victory.

Cooper Webb’s second place came with a reasonable buffer over third placed Justin Barcia, who rounded out the podium.

450 Rider Quotes

Ken Roczen – P1

​​”My weekend and the team’s weekend went great here at Anaheim 1. I didn’t really know which way it was going to go. We had a little bit of a difficult December, but this couldn’t have gone any better. Our practice was okay – nothing to really rave about, but we executed every single start tonight. We won the heat race, and then in the main event, I knew it was going to be a long battle. The track was really, really rough tonight, and it made for some crazy racing. There was a lot of carnage and crazy stuff going on behind me. I was actually really glad we had those good starts because it helped me stay away from that and really ride my own race. Chase, my teammate, was putting a lot of pressure on me, and we had a really good battle for the first half of the race. Luckily I came away with the win, and I couldn’t ask for anything better. I’m just really happy with how the team and I excelled today.”

Cooper Webb – P2

“It was a dog fight tonight! Fun race, but a really tough race. The track got super rough and a lot of us got out front just duking it out. I felt like I fought hard the whole time, made some good passes and got myself in a really good position. I kind of struggled a little bit with the track so I was pumped to come out with a second – great points and it’s the best I’ve ever done at the opener so we’re looking to keep the ball rolling. It’s great to be back in Anaheim and it’s fun to be back racing!”

Justin Barcia – P3

“That was an awesome race! I had a lot of fun and we had some great battles out there. The pressure is off now and I can work on myself, keep plugging along and having fun. It’s been a great offseason and it’s just good to get this first race out of the way. I’m happy with the result, it’s a good podium finish, and we definitely have some things to build on. I’m really looking forward to the next race, bonding with the guys, having fun and going for it!”

Marvin Musquin – P4

“I’m happy right now. It was a long and tough day, with quite a fight for the Main Event. I did my best with outside gate pick and I made some good passes, so I was pumped on the riding and the intensity early on. I made a couple mistakes and I lost contact with Cooper, and then Malcolm passed me. I tried to pass him to the inside but unfortunately, he railed the corner and we hit each other – he didn’t know I was coming – and we both went down. I got up and came back to fourth place, that was amazing. I’m pumped on the push and with the results, to be honest, with all the drama that happened during the main.”

Chase Sexton – P5

“Today was pretty good – practice was good, heat race was good. In the main event, I made a few costly mistakes, which was frustrating. My speed is really good, and I feel really good on the bike; we did a lot of good work during the off-season, and it’s looking promising. Finishing fifth after crashing twice is pretty good I guess, but I have to figure out how to get my marks up and not make bonehead mistakes. The track was really good; I actually had fun on it all day. The mistakes I made were my fault. The bike felt good on the track; we had a good base, and I just really enjoyed it. I won a heat and got fifth in the main because of my mistakes, so I’m looking forward to improving. Kenny won, so it proved that we put in some good work on the bike. We’re healthy, and on to the next round.”

Eli Tomac – P6

“It was a little bit of a slower start than what we wanted this season. It really came down to two things tonight: the starts and I was struggling a little bit with the whoops. It was a tough track; probably one of the toughest A1’s that we’ve had in quite some time. On a positive note, I had really good qualifying sessions all day, so I know I can be fast and be there. I just have to put it all together. It’s always easier said than done, but it’s possible. We’re going to try and fix the little things and come back next week.”

Malcolm Stewart – P7

“I think this was actually one of the better season openers for me since I started in the 450 class. Going into the weekend, I wanted to execute a few things like having a good heat race, and I was able to do that. P1 for a qualifying, I’ve never done that before, so I feel like that was a big achievement for me and even though we went down in the Main Event, it was actually a good ride performance-wise but you know, the results weren’t there. It was a good start but I definitely feel there are a few things that we need to work on but overall, I’m happy to leave here on a good note and looking forward to Oakland and to keep driving – we’ve got 16 more races to go!”

Aaron Plessinger – P9

“It was a pretty rough day for me actually. I started out in Free Practice going down and then I went down in the first qualifying practice as well. I turned it around and ran some decent laps in the second qualifier but it wasn’t a very great position. I got a decent start in the heat race and ran in fourth pretty much the whole time. In the main, I didn’t get a good start at all and I was back of the pack battling. About halfway through, I turned it up a little bit and made some passes up to ninth. Overall, I’m pumped to get through the first round healthy and we’ll back at it in Oakland!”

Jason Anderson – P10

“I definitely think today could have gone better. My speed was right there with the top guys, and I felt like my KX450SR was handling so well. In the main, I spent a few laps planning my pass for second and did the best I could to make a clean move and ride away. Unfortunately, I can’t control how other riders respond, but that’s racing. It was a tough one, but we live to fight another day. Time to switch gears and focus on Oakland.”

Adam Cianciarulo – P11

“It was a challenging day for us. Obviously, coming in with a grade three AC shoulder separation isn’t ideal but I did the best I could all day. I can honestly say I exceeded my expectations by a lot. I wasn’t sure if I’d even make the full 20 minutes going into the main event, but the team and I had a quick chat before the race which helped me get into the right mindset and deliver a rather impressive result. The goal is to keep getting healthier each week and start fighting for wins as soon as possible.”

Dean Wilson – P12

“My night was a struggle for sure, which is frustrating because I’ve had a really good off season. In the Main, I was pretty far outside on the gate and I came through and made some good passes. I was hovering around top-10 and then got passed and ended up 12th. It wasn’t great but I believe we’ll just get better from here on out.”

Dylan Ferrandis – P16

“Anaheim I is always a little crazy. I was actually feeling pretty good all day; it was my starts that hurt me. In the main event, I got a really bad start, but I moved my way up. I was feeling pretty good, pretty strong, and was coming back to the top five. Then I had an issue and tried to come back but made a mistake and crashed. So it was not a really good night, but I know now that I’m capable of riding out front in the 450 class. We’re going to regroup and be ready for next weekend.”

450 Main Results

450 Championship Standings (Round 1 of 17)

250 Main

Vince Friese got another Holeshot to lead Seth Hammaker and Christian Craig in the Main. Michael Mosiman made a mistake on the opening lap and lost a heap of ground. Hunter Lawrence was stuck back in the pack around tenth.

Craig made his way past Hammaker to move up to second place after nearly eating dirt himself through the whoops, pulled off a great save to stay on the bike and was quickly all over the back of Vince Friese.

Friese defended well but Craig eventually made his way through to take the lead.  Hammaker then started to attack Friese for that second position and it didn’t take him long to push Friese back to third. A lap later Marchbanks pushed Friese further back to fourth.

Hunter Lawrence had been steadily working his way forward and was up to fifth by half race distance and shortly thereafter moved past Friese to relegate the early race leader to fifth.

Christian Craig continued to set the pace and pulled away from Hammaker who as the race progressed started to come under attack from Marchbanks. Hunter Lawrence beat him to the punch though! 

Hunter took third place from Marchbanks but ran out of time before he could get Hammaker and had to settle for third despite a final corner challenge that nearly came off for the Australian.

Jo Shimoda had got stuck on the gates and was way behind the pack at the start but steadily worked his way forward to a seventh place finish to still bag good points despite that disastrous start.

Mosiman also recovered from an early stumble to finish sixth.

250 Rider Quotes

Christian Craig – P1

“I don’t think anything can top last year’s win in Houston, but I would say this is just as good. Having all the fans back and having my family here, and winning at a hometown race is a dream come true. I’ve been coming here since I was three years old, so this means everything to me. It was an awesome Main Event, and I felt awesome all day. I didn’t get the best of starts, but I made my way through the pack and made clean passes. Once I got up front, I just clicked off my laps and rode a smart race. We’re going to try and keep this thing going into the next round in Oakland.”

Seth Hammaker – P2

“It was a tough track and there were certain parts of the track you really had to focus on. When I felt pressured, I told myself to make it clean through the whoops and pass the lappers clean. It feels amazing to get on the podium to start the season.”

Hunter Lawrence – P3

“My night was okay. I just kept pushing and charging, and doing everything I could. It was close to second, and I hope it was interesting to watch! I’m a little frustrated, a little satisfied, not just with the result but where I’m at. I think I’m riding great, and I can’t wait to go to the next race.”

Michael Mosiman – P6

“Anaheim I is in the books and boy was it a crazy one! I had so much fun throughout the day, honestly more fun than I’ve ever had at a SX. I felt super confident on the bike and everything was clicking, just riding well within my abilities. It’s unfortunate how the main started out and once I was back in the pack, it’s pretty hectic back there, but I’m proud of how I rode and I’m leaving with a ton of positives. I think I’m very much in it for the championship and very healthy and couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Jo Shimoda – P7

“The rider next to me flinched and it caused me to get stuck in the gate. They were holding the gate a long time and I just made a mistake. I had a long race ahead of me, but I worked really hard to pass as many people as I could and stay up. Knowing it’s just the first round, I wanted to get all the points I could and I’m just 11 points back of the leader. We’ll be back next week.”

Nate Thrasher – P12

“It was a tough night, but I felt like I was riding well. Somebody hit the gate, and it moved, so I went and hit it too. Then I was working my way up through the field and was going for another pass, but the guy got cross-rutted, and I ended up going down. After that, I tried to push my way back but just didn’t have anything left. So, it was kind of a bummer because I felt like I was riding well and could have made it to the top five. It was just a tough night, but we’ve got the speed, so I’m going to come back next weekend and put it on the box.”

250 Main Results

250 West Championship Standings (Round 1 of 10)

Source: MCNews.com.au

AMA SX ready for take off!

The opening round of the 2022 Monster Energy AMA/ FIM World Supercross Championship gets underway this weekend at Angel Stadium, Anaheim in America.

With no races at the California stadium in 2021 due to the Coronavirus pandemic, this will be the first of three races at the venue this season, as it will also host rounds four and six.

Other California venues back on the 17-round schedule for 2022 are Oakland and San Diego.

2022 Monster Energy AMA/ FIM World Supercross Schedule

• Round 1 – January 8, Angel Stadium, Anaheim, CA.
• Round 2 – January 15, RingCentral Coliseum, Oakland, CA
• Round 3 – January 22, Petco Park, San Diego, CA
• Round 4 – January 29, Angel Stadium, Anaheim, CA
• Round 5 – February 5, State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
• Round 6 – February 12, Angel Stadium, Anaheim, CA
• Round 7 – February 19, US Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
• Round 8 – February 26, AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
• Round 9 – March 5, Daytona Intl. Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL
• Round 10 – March 12, Ford Field, Detroit, MI
• Round 11 – March 19, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
• Round 12 – March 26, Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
• Round 13 – April 9, Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, MO
• Round 14 – April 16, Atlanta Motor Speedway, Atlanta, GA
• Round 15 – April 23, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
• Round 16 – April 30, Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
• Round 17 – May 6, Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT

Jack Holder claims NSW Speedway title in Kurri Kurri

From FIMSpeedway

FIM Speedway Grand Prix first reserve Jack Holder kicked off 2022 in fine style after lifting the New South Wales State Championship on Sunday. The Torun favourite topped the podium at Kurri Kurri, defeating Sam Masters, Josh Pickering and Ben Cook in the A Final.

Holder raced to 12 points in the heats – a tally bettered by former Aussie champion Masters on 14 and Pickering on 13.

All three riders earned automatic qualification for the A Final, with Ben Cook defeating Maurice Brown, Matthew Gilmore and Zach Cook in the B Final to complete the A Final line-up.

Holder then got the verdict in his biggest meeting of an Aussie summer, which has seen the Australian Championship and FIM Oceania Championship cancelled due to Covid-19 travel restrictions Down Under.

He could be in for a much busier European summer this year as he lines up for Torun in Poland and Sheffield in the SGB Premiership. He is also first in line for a SpeedwayGP call-up if any of the series regulars are forced out of a round due to injury, illness or other reasons.

Holder’s triumph in the NSW Championship follows back-to-back title wins for Justin Sedgmen in the Victorian and South Australian State Championships in December.

Sedgmen topped the SA podium in Gillman on December 28, beating Fraser Bowes, Brayden McGuinness and Zane Keleher in the A Final.

This followed his Victorian title triumph on home track Mildura ahead of Jordan Stewart, James Pearson and Fraser Bowes on December 18.

A top-four finish in an Australian state championship ensures riders qualify for a UK visa, if they do not have one already, although an increasing number of Aussie riders are now seeking team places in the Polish leagues.

Danilo Petrucci knocked out of Dakar with mechanical issue

Tech3 KTM Factory Racing’s Danilo Petrucci suffered a technical issue early on in Stage 2 of the 2022 Dakar Rally, bringing his rally to a premature end, with a helicopter apparently needing to be called in around the 150 km mark.

The issue ends Petrucci’s chances of an official placing result, however he’ll be able to continue regardless.

He had finished Stage 1 in an extremely strong 13th place position overall, running 33m29s off early leader Daniel Sanders, and shared, “I’m really, really happy to finish my first real Dakar stage. I was so nervous at the start. Generally, all went ok for me but the 120 kilometers after the refueling seemed really, really long for me, especially with the big dunes.”

We’ve had no statement as yet on the mechanical issue or his thoughts after Stage 2.

Source: MCNews.com.au