The months of travelling and competing for the young mini riders of the Wanganui Motorcycle Club will culminate in less than two weeks as they enter the 2016 KTM NZ Mini Motocross Champs in Pukekohe.
Being held at the Pukekohe Motorcycle Club's Harrisville track, November 12-13, the annual nationals weekendis where the most experienced mini riders from around the country converge.
Last year's event was held at Barrett Motorcycle Park in New Plymouth, where Chase Williamson finished second in the 6-8 years' 50cc intro trail class.
Spokeswoman Tamara Bennetts said Williamson has moved to a bigger bike class, which will make a harder challenge.
Joining them are the younger riders Travis Andrews, Isaac Ashworth, and the Bell brothers - Matthew and Michael.
"Representing for the girls is Ajah Sullivan - this will be their first time at this two full day event.
"Support for these kids and the sport they live and breathe comes from their amazing families and sponsors.
"We're one big moto family and are so proud of how far the kids have come in this sport - the kids are determined to ride their best to represent Whanganui in this national event."
Older riders to look for will be 9-11 year 65cc class locals Jet Ashworth and Troy Bullock, who have been in good form at recent regional motocross events.
"As well as supporting their home club, the kids have also been riding throughout the year competing at other clubs events and series around the North Island including Gold Coast, Kapi Mana, Flipps and of course Taupo," said Bennetts.
"Most placing high at every event, all practice and in preparation for NZ Mini Nationals."
Michael and Matthew Bell
The most recent event was the Huka Honda MX fest in Taupo the two weekends ago, which Bennetts said was an awesome day where the Whanganui kids rode well and came away with trophies.
"Bullock claimed a well deserved podium third - holding his line on starts to get to the front - followed closely by Nikk Rangi with fifth, Jet Ashworth sixth and Chase Williamson 20th for the 9-11 65cc class."
Matthew Bell won the 6-8 age group of the 50cc class, with friend Isaac Ashworth seventh, while younger brother Michael Bell was second in the 4-5 year 50cc group.
In mid-October, Matthew Bell won the 4-8 year 50cc class at the Gold Coast champs near Foxton, with Whanganui sweeping the podium as Andrews and Isaac Ashworth finished second and third respectively.
Jet Ashworth and Bullock also came second and third in the 9-11 year 65cc class.
The Wanganui Motorcycle Club track will be holding an open day fundraiser this coming Saturday, 11am-6pm, with all the day's proceeds going to the mini riders to help fund their trip to nationals.
Children of all ages and riding levels are welcome.
