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September 13: New Zealand\'s Josh Coppins has made Kiwi history by breaking into the top 10 in the world\'s premier class of motocross racing.
The 22-year-old from Motueka finished 7th in the 250cc motocross world championships despite crashing and damaging his factory Suzuki machine at the final round of the 16-race series at Budds Creek, Maryland, in the United States on Sunday.
Coppins worked his way up from 14th to finish 10th in the first of two 45-minute races but crashed heavily in race two when the front wheel slid out from under him. He was unable to continue.
\'I had a bad start in race two, back in about 15th, but moved up to 10th place in the first four laps.
\'I had to take 7th or better to take 6th in the championship so I had to give it everything. I rode over my head and took risks I normally wouldn\'t. I was just too aggressive and crashed out. I rode much better than my results show.\'
Coppins first ventured onto the Grand Prix arena in 1995, finishing a remarkable 41st on his debut season. He backed that up with 23rd in 1996 and 17th a year later. He was 13th last season and, not being the superstitious type, was happy to carry the no.13 plate this year. It proved to be a lucky number in 1999, Coppins the highest-placed Suzuki rider this season and earning himself a full factory contract for the year 2000.
\'All in all I\'ve had a good year. I have been happy with my progress throughout the season. To take 7th is not too disappointing, I have proved to myself and the team that I can be a much better rider for next season.\'
Frenchman Frederic Bolley finished 8th and 10th at the United States Grand Prix, good enough for him to take the 1999 world title.
