Altherm JCR Yamaha has bolstered its motocross line-up with the signing of 15-year-old Hayden Draper, one of New Zealand’s most promising young riders.
The Karaka-based teenager has been turning heads with standout performances both at home and abroad, and now takes the next step in his career under the guidance of Altherm JCR Yamaha team manager and former international star Josh Coppins.
Draper’s signing follows a dominant display at the 2025 New Zealand Junior Motocross Championships near Pukekohe, where he secured national titles in both the 14-16 years 250cc and 15-16 years 125cc classes after three days of fierce competition at the Harrisville circuit.
His momentum continued from the senior nationals, where he won the 125cc class and finished runner-up in the under-19 category. Across the Tasman, Draper has also proven his speed, claiming the Australian 13-15 years 250cc national junior title in September 2024.
“This is quite a big deal for us,” said Coppins. “Normally, we promote riders from within the bLU cRU program, but Hayden’s potential is clear. He’s come across from LMC Husqvarna and wanted to be with us to chase international goals. We’re stoked to have him on board.”
Coppins confirmed the team’s 2025 focus for Draper will include competing at the Junior World Championship in France, the Australian Junior Nationals, and a full campaign with JCR Yamaha in next summer’s domestic season.
Draper, who previously rode Yamaha machinery in the 65cc and early 85cc classes, said he’s “really excited and can’t wait to get going” with the Altherm JCR Yamaha team. He has also made the decision to begin home-schooling to accommodate his growing training and travel commitments.
His long-term ambitions include racing full-time in the Australian Motocross Championship before heading to the United States to chase a career in supercross or motocross.
Photo: CD Photography
Draper joins a team with a strong track record of developing young riders into international contenders. Recent JCR alumni Levi Townley is currently contesting the EMX125 Championship in Europe, while Cole Davies won his second major supercross race in the U.S. last week.
Meanwhile, the team has been managing a difficult run of injuries. MX2 rider James Scott is recovering from knee surgery sustained midway through the national series, with no confirmed return date. In MX1, reigning champion Maximus Purvis picked up a leg injury while racing in Australia and is also sidelined.
Despite the setbacks, Coppins says the team remains focused on recovery and development. “We’re continuing to support our riders through their injuries and backing our bLU cRU development program. The future’s still looking strong.”
The New Zealand Motocross Championship will return earlier next season, kicking off in November with back-to-back South Island rounds before heading north in February 2026.
