Kina Country Youngster New Champ

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 34, 10 February 1987, Page 6 (Supplement)

Kina Country Youngster New Champ

THE title of North Island Junior Moto-cross Champion in the 14-15 age group was won this year by Paul Wilson from Waimiha. Held over Anniversary weekend at Waipawa in Central Hawkes Bay, Paul competed with top riders from all over the North Island to win first place in the 80cc class. Paul started racing in June last year, travelling throughout the central North Island competing and gaining experience. His interest in bikes began as a youngster when he used to drive farm bikes around his parents' property. Unfortunately, Paul will be unable to defend his title next year as he will progress into the senior classes when he turns sixteen in September. He may then choose any grade bike but will probably opt for 125cc says his mother, Mrs Rae Browne. However, when the family travel to Australia in March, Paul will have the opportunity to compete in moto-cross events across the Tasman. There, the family's holiday in Queensland will revolve around Paul's racing against some of Australia's top young riders. Also on the moto-cross calendar for Paul will be the New Zealand Championships in May, which are to be held in Auckland. Paul's interest in bikes is a real family affair. His younger brother Greg also rides and although not quite as competitive by nature, is

just as keen. Paul's father, who once raced himself, now helps both boys with their riding and the maintenance on their bikes. Mrs Browne travels with the family to all the cham-

pionships and describes her part in the sport ^is 'doing all the things that mothers do - the things you don't often see'. Over the winter season, from May until September, the emphasis is more on club

riding. As well as belonging to the South Waikato Club in Tokoroa, Paul and Greg are members of Taumarunui^ Moto-cross Club and travel with their bikes to different farms locally to enjoy riding at club days.