Juniors hit new heights

FLYING HIGH: Wanganui Junior Academy rider Tom Gilligan takes a leap of faith At the Mighty Manawatu Junior Motocross Champs near Foxton on Sunday. PHOTO/BLAKE ROUNTREE

THE newly formed Balance Chartered Accountants Junior Wanganui Motocross Academy is driving young riders to new levels.

Academy manager Ant Rountree said it was launched earlier this year to help improve the technique and performance of young riders in the Wanganui Motorcycle Club's off-road competitions.

"The academy was started this year when 30 local businesses got on board paying $50 each to go into a draw for the naming rights. That was won by Balance," Rountree said.

"That helped raise $4500 which is being used over the year for professional coaching and trips away. After the first two-day coaching clinic held last school holidays, each rider has improved a lot and is getting faster by the week."

Last Sunday, academy riders competed at the Mighty Manawatu Junior Motocross Championships near Foxton at Himatangi where James Rountree (KX85) had the best result finishing sixth in the under-17 years 85cc class, followed by Campbell Tylee (RM85) in ninth overall and Jaxson Watt (KX85) a creditable 11th overall in the under-17 125cc class.

Meanwhile, Tom Gilligan (YZ125) finished ninth overall in his grade finishing race three in sixth after a top ride.

Olly Dennison Husqvarna (YZ125) was back from a broken leg to finish 11th overall, while Anton Montague (YZ125) ended the championship in 14th.

In the under-17 250cc class Hunter Gilbertson (YZF250) rode well to finish seventh overall in a very competitive class.

Meanwhile, in the under-13 year 85cc class Alex Luff-Scott (CR85) finished 12th.

Next event for the academy is round three of the Wanganui Motocross Championships on June 19.