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What a series it has been so far with a great turnout of riders and two outstanding tracks to keep the adrenalin pumping.
Some may say that it hasn’t been an easy series as far as rider ability is concerned but those who source some good cross country racing know that the Bel Ray series is one of the best.
The first round held out at the Eyre property in November really set the benchmark. With it’s combination of open, rolling Farmland, sprinkled with some tight forestry, we knew the riders were either going to love it or hate it with a vengeance.
Some of the best enduro riders rated this track as fast and particularly loved the technical forestry section. Others described it as an ‘awesome’ track. The winner of the senior’s race for the day was last year’s series winner Mark Penny riding a RMZ450.
The second round held last weekend at Ian Smith’s property in Naike was a different track again. This popular property has been used numerous times for Bel Ray’s and trail rides.
Admittedly, this can pose a problem with track marking however the gang did a fabulous job of mowing and track marking to ensure utmost safety for riders whilst providing a challenging track even for past visitors.
The day was hot with very little wind which compounded the already dry conditions. The rider’s feedback was varied. Some absolutely hated the dry conditions, packed up, and went home.
But one rider in particular, GNCC rider Paul Whibley described the track as ‘the best Bel Ray track he has ever ridden’. What a great credit to the group of guys involved in marking the track.
Now we look forward to the final round on 10th January 2009, this time run on the Saturday not the Sunday as done previously.
The club will be holding a pre-final gathering at Huntly Honda Friday 9th January 2009 from 5pm. Visitors can expect to see some great products from Northern Accessories particularly some newly released items. In addition, the series will have all it’s sponsors attending with prize giveaways and promotional information.
We will be reminiscing with some old original Bel Ray Footage and a good old BBQ to take care of dinner for all.
The Final round will be held at Lempriere’s property, Mangiti Rd, Te Akau. It will be signposted from Waingaro Hot Springs and KFC Huntly.
This is anticipated to be the biggest round given the completion of the New Zealand Motorcross Nationals. The race will be followed by a celebration dinner for all to recognise the 15th anniversary of this event.
Sunday 11th January 2009 will be a fundraising trailride for the Te Akau School.
For any further information, you can contact Tarina Moorfield, Event Manager (07) 826-4578 or ring the Huntly Motorcycle Club infoline 08 322 5144.
