New Zealand riders excelled at the latest rendition of the USA-version of the World Veterans’ Motocross Championships in the United States.
Christchurch’s Justin McDonald (Honda) and Papakura’s Tony Cooksley (Yamaha) were among the stand-outs in the racing at the 40th edition of the event at Glen Helen, in San Bernadino, California, last weekend.
McDonald finished the weekend unbeaten in the 35 years plus expert class, his 1-1-1 score-line easily enough for him to edge out well-known former national championship and international American riders in this class such as Phil Nicoletti and Mike Brown.
In addition to his expert class accolade, McDonald (pictured here) also finished fifth overall in the over-30 years’ Pro class (with a DNF and then 5-5 results), ending up behind Nicoletti, Mike Alessi, Giacomo Redondi and Sean Lipanovich.
Cooksley finished 1-4-2 in his three outings in the 65 years plus expert class, placing him second overall behind Japan’s Isao Ida.
There were 1200 riders entered from 24 different countries and the course featured a very long lap and challenging terrain that consisted of five major hills.
Lap times varied from 2:45 for the Pros to over 4:00 for the older age groups.
The Edison Dye Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented to 28-time World Vet Champion Doug Dubach in a special ceremony.
From privateer to factory rider, Dubach became one of the most prominent testers in the industry and would become the most successful veteran rider at the World Veterans’ Championships.
© Words and photo by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com
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