2012 NZ Motocross Champ dates released

Tuesday 01 November: The MNZ Motocross Commission has announced the dates and venues for the 2012 New Zealand Motocross Championship. Rotorua and New Plymouth drop out of the Championship and two 'new' venues are introduced.

Round 1 12 Feb South Canterbury MCC at Chisholm Road, Pleasant Point.

Round 2 26 Feb Patetonga MCC, Top Road, Patetonga.

Round 3 04 Mar Pukekohe MCC at their MR Motorcycle's Harrisville track.

Round 4 18 Mar Taupo at Digger McEwen Track, Miro Street, Taupo.

Each Club has a multi-year contract. Patetonga only has one left. South Canterbury has two years left. Pukekohe has three and Taupo has four. The multi year 'deal' allows the Clubs to attract their sponsors.

There has been no announcement from MNZ that a four round 'national' sponsor has been found. Clubs will also retain the entry fee which will greatly help their financial performance.

Harrisville has been there before but the last time in 2006, torrential rain meant a switch to the Club's Sand Track at Mercer. Youthstream's Track Manager Greg Atkins is down in early February and will lend his skills to track improvements.

Taupo is most suited as the final round as the track, accommodation and a prize-giving facility is very central. 11 Mar was not an option for Taupo as there is a major motorsport event in town - NZV8s.