New Zealand motocross star Josh Coppins has swept all three MX1 races at the Valence International meeting in southern France, beating a host of world championship peers including 2007 No 1 Steve Ramon.
The New Zealander who won the event on the weekend for the second year running,said it was a huge confidence booster for the world championship season which begins on April 6 with the Netherlands grand prix.
He took first corner leads in two of the three heats, enjoying small battles with Sebastien Pourcel, Julian Bill and Ramon across the race programme on the way to his perfect scorecard.
It was the second time that the Yamaha rider, 31 next month, has had a podium finish in pre-season races having finished second at Montevarchi in Italy 10 days ago.
"It was an enjoyable race because the weather was good for once and the track offered near grand prix conditions which meant that I could really go for it," said Coppins who is carrying a shoulder niggle.
"I cannot complain with the build-up I've had.
"We have been using the race-bike for three weeks now and I am coming to grips with it.
"My shoulder is not 100 per cent and I will go for a scan tomorrow.
"It has become better since Mantova but gave me some trouble on the long and rough down-hills at Valence.
"I will find out this week what I have to do, whether it be physio or rest, and there is plenty of time before the first grand prix to get back to normal.
