Broxy revs up for kids' training rides

Top Kiwi motocross rider Peter Broxholme will be teaching the finer and safer aspects of off-road riding to local youngsters over the next two days. Photo/Colin Smith

One of the country's top motocross competitors and riding coaches, Peter 'Broxy' Broxholme is heading to Hawke's Bay to stage a free rider training programme for youngsters.

"He has been here before doing professional training schools which riders have paid for but this is the first time he's done an event that is free for riders," Ricki Freemantle, from the Hawke's Bay Motorcycle Club, said.

The club worked with Sports Hawke's Bay to organise and fund the two-day programme at the Valley Road Mini-MX track off SH50 about 20km from Hastings.

They also gained sponsorship from Pak'nSave and the Mad Butcher in catering for lunch and snacks during the days.

It is the first of two planned free junior-targeted motocross training events set to be staged in the Bay.

"We are planning another one later in the year," Mr Freemantle said, adding it was essential to get young riders off on the best foot when it came to riding off-road and competing.

Tomorrow and Friday's programme is tailored to riders aged between four and 12, and the 30 available spots were quickly taken up when the club announced it.

While most of the youngsters had ridden before, about a third were effectively new to off-road riding or mini motocross competition.

"It is all about learning to ride safely and having fun - the safety part of it is paramount."

Mr Freemantle said Mr Broxholme was a skilled instructor who quickly gained the confidence of young riders and equally quickly spotted areas where they needed assistance.

Mini-motocross was popular across the region with events attracting between 30 and 40 riders in classes starting with riders yet to even start school.

The free programme was invaluable in getting youngsters into the sport.

While it had not yet been decided, the next free programme later in the year was likely to be for junior riders aged 12 to 16.

"This is something we'll build on," Mr Freemantle said.