Wairoa rider second in NZ champs

AMONG THE BEST: Gisborne Motorcycle Sports Club members Troy Andrews (left) and Thomas Watts were among the leading group in their dvisions at the New Zealand Junior Motocross Championships in Hawke’s Bay last weekend. Troy finished seventh in the 125cc group for riders aged 12 to 14, and Thomas was second in the 85cc group for riders aged 13 to 16. Picture supplied

WAIROA motocross rider Thomas Watts finished second in the New Zealand Junior Motocross Championships in Hawke’s Bay last weekend.

Thomas, 14, contested the 85cc group for riders aged 13 to 16. Racing was held over three days at the Ngaruroro Raceway, at Fernhill, near Hastings.

In seven races against 36 competitors, one of whom came from Tahiti, Thomas achieved placings of fifth, second, second, first, third, fifth and second.

Thomas is a boarder at Napier Boys’ High School but is a member of the Gisborne Motorcycle Sports Club.

Another member of the club, Troy Andrews, had an overall placing of seventh in the 125cc group for riders aged 12 to 14.

His placings for the seven races were eighth, sixth, sixth, fifth, eighth, seventh and fifth.

Thomas Watts thanked his parents for bike maintenance and bills payment, and his sponsors, trainer and coach.