from ... Cam Negus

Conditions: Track was rough and fast flowing

Weather: Overcast & Mild

Around 200 riders lined the start, dead engines for the mass start. The first 3 paddocks were extremely wet and soft, so a good start was essential.

My YZ250cc fired up and I was gone, yep another holeshot, Darryl King, Cody Copper and myself all battled for the lead in the first 3kms, I took the lead 200m before entering the forest only to go down through a very slick gateway, I remounted quickly in 5th position. The first 6-8kms was fast with very rough square edge bumps.

Cody Copper had gapped the chasing pack including four others and myself. I struggled with arm pump for the first 20kms, by the 30km mark I started a good pace and was flowing with the track.

In Lap 2, I battled with two others riders.

Lap 3, I lost one position to Peter Broxholme.

Going into lap 4 I caught-up to Mark Penny but he had the upper hand and I rode a lonely final lap to finish 11th overall and 2nd in my class.

Summary: I rode consistently, only making one mistake when losing the lead early in the race. My concentration and fitness were good, I just didn’t have the speed on the day to contest with the top 10 riders. Many thanks to my pit crew Todd - great job and to all of you for your continuing support it’s very much appreciated.

Next event: Hawkes Bay 6 hour in October

Best Regards

Cam Negus