Paul Whibley wins NZ GNCC, Maddix Park Tauranga

The forecast was good but rain overnight turned the track to a mix of super slick clay and soft dirt.

I started on the second row about 30 seconds behind the leaders but charged my way forward and had taken the lead just before a lap was completed. The bike was working good with the base set up I had used in the states dealing to NZ conditions as well.

The track deteriorated fast in several sections and by the second lap bottle necks and some deep ruts were providing plenty to keep riders minds on the job. I was able to continue to extend my lead but the conditions on track meant it could disappear at any time with a slip-up on the slick clay or getting wedged in a rut.

An early pit stop was needed with the thick heavy dirt using more than normal gas. Thanks to Sean Clarke for manning the IMS dumpcan and helping Katherine with the pit stop. It was good to be back on the bike again after taking a break from racing at the close of the US season.

A little EnduroX section near the pits also kept the spectators and pit crew entertained with many riders coming undone on the slippery logs. The track was really enjoyable and challenging and was a credit to the track crew for keeping the tough sections in and giving a hand to those that needed it.

At the close of the 2 hour 30 minute event I had a good lead and all had gone to plan. 

I'm currently at Justin Heke's place (my trainer) to begin training for the 2012 season and working on some new ideas to keep me at the pointy end of the field. The PR will return to the regular format when I return home.