Series' return just champion for Honda pair

BACK IN BUSINESS: Motard riders Tony Hirini and James Clarke were successful at the first Motard series held at Manfeild since 2009. PHOTO/BEVAN CONLEY 210915WCBRCHON01

WANGANUI Honda riders James Clarke and Tony Hirini were delighted to see the Motards back at Manfeild and they made the most of it by getting on the podium of the Victoria Motorcycle Club's series.

Clarke was the winner of the four-round championship, which concluded at the weekend, while Hirini was third overall in a tight tussle among the top four competitors. "It was pretty cool, we didn't know until the prizegiving," said Hirini.

Clarke's 219 points won him the title, while Hirini finished with a score of 204.

There were about 15 riders at each round of the series, raced monthly, which was the first time the Motards series had been held since 2009.

Clarke was well supported by his parents, while Hirini's pit crew included his wife, daughter and father-in-law.

Both riders thanked the bosses at Keown Honda, as well as Fastway Couriers and Gorilla Graphics for their assistance.

The pair will now set their sights on the Summer Series, which starts at Taupo this coming weekend.