Rat track revamped for supercross

Faster and cooler racing. That’s what organisers of the annual Tasman Honda Nelson Supercross Championships are promising from their revamped Rat Track in Lower Moutere this weekend.

“We brought in a 20-tonne digger and we have come up with different jumps this year,” says event organisor Liam Kerr.

The Nelson fireman insists the beauty of supercross-style racing is the compact nature of the circuit which ensures exciting races.

Up to 80 riders are expected for the two-day Nelson Motorcycle Club meet, with Canterbury’s Justin McDonald the MX1 headline act after recently winning the world veterans title in Glen Helen, California. He was unbeaten in three races at the iconic San Bernadino track.

Veteran is maybe a little misleading as it is for the over 35’s.

Justin will spearhead a local team against four riders from Australia who have come from a supercross series there. They will try to reclaim the trophy which the Aussies won last year.

There will also be a feature event for the top eight MX1 riders, the quickest eight from MX2, and two other riders. The 18 strong field is likely to ensure the closest racing of the weekend at the Nelson Motorcycle-Club.

Former World No.2 motocross rider Josh Coppins, who literally lives just down the road from the Rat Track, named after its creator Matt Wratten, was hoping to return to race this weekend.

“The body was good to go but business commitments required me to head to the United States,” confirms the 47-year-old.

But there will still be a Coppins competing. Josh’s 12-year-old son Nixon is back from England for the summer. And he won’t be the youngest revving up as the eight to 11-year-olds will be competing on their 65cc bikes too.

Racing is from after midday on Saturday and Sunday at Central Rd, Lower Moutere.