2017 NZ MX Nationals tests riders ability to race NZ’s best along with sprinkling of International riders testing their performance as build-up to season ahead.
Not only does NZ’s National Series cater for different rider categories from Professional racers to Pro riders working 9-5, to up-coming Youth determined to keep a-pace with their peers- but also offers Internationals opportunities to mix up their race schedule racing in unfamiliar venues.
With entries at this weekend’s International Woodville Grand Prix attracting 12 riders from Australia, mainly in 14-16 250F and MX2 class, commitment to race outside their country, prior to home Series, and against riders comfortable with track terrain ticks the box of solid pre-season preparation.
Having witnessed in the past couple of years what NZ’s riders have to take on board competing outside home tracks, in Europe, against seasoned MX racers living, riding, and breathing Motocross GP’s Senior and Junior, it is without a doubt opportunities for new race experiences is a must.
Double classing offers hardened fitness programme, as does racing class above riders spec. KTM Josiah Natzke competed in 2015 NZ MX Nationals 125cc and MX2 under watchful guidance of Ben Townley– albeit in preparation to race FIM World MX Championships EMX 125cc class post NZ’s Nationals.
Altherm JCR Yamaha’s Courtney Duncan contested 2016 International Woodville Grand Prix MX2 and won as build-up for World Women’s MX Championship Series- with WMX Opening Round 4 weeks later, at Qatar, where CD went 1-1.
Results aside, the strategy to push rider’s level of comfort zone within race build-up schedule not only intensifies learning experience but also readies rider’s ability to cope and deal with racing at new venues, new tracks in new countries at pointy end of table.
A must for any NZ rider wanting to break into racing MX overseas.
Words: Sharon Cox
Photo Credit Header: Lauran’s Images
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