Apart from his motocross achievements 'Smarty' as he is better know is also an accomplished off road rider with an impressive 4 Hattah Desert Enduro race win trophies safely locked away in the trophy cabinet.
To give you a bit of an insight into what its like from a privateers point of view over the next few rounds the full time Horticulturalist will be jotting down a few words after each round to share his experiences. Below is the first installment of his life on the road and competing.
"I Parted Mildura 7:00am Friday morning looking forward to an 18 hour road trip, in the trusty Hiace Van that has no power steering or air conditioning, with my mechanic {Paul Baddock} who incidentally has a broken hand, so this makes him about as useful as an ash tray is on a motor bike but hey, he‰Ûªs good for a laugh and co-pilot.
We arrived at the picturesque Echo Valley track at 3pm Saturday, which is located near the centre of town, now how cool is that!! We signed in and went for a stroll around the track to check out some lines and get the blood pumping back through our legs after our long drive being cramped up.
Whilst inspecting the immaculately groomed track Paul decided he wanted an even closer inspection, when he lost his footing on the steepest hill and took a face plant, all I could do was laugh as he picked himself up off the deck, brushing himself off. All I can say is thank god he didn‰Ûªt break his other hand because I wasn‰Ûªt going to be the one wiping his ass!. Anyway all was good we left the track, had a good meal and got some shut eye, looking forward to what Sunday had to offer us.
It was a picturesque day weather wise arriving at the track. First up was our qualifying session straight up I felt at home both on the bike and the track which I had never seen or ridden before. At the end of the session I found myself qualified in 7th position which gave me an excellent pick of the grid, cool!
Before long the first moto was underway, I had an excellent start putting me right up the front, top five. Were I stayed for quiet a while before I decided to overcook a turn under brakes which saw me loose a few positions but i still finished in 8th position in moto one.
Moto two was soon under way. 2nd out of the first turn behind Doggy Marmont put me in good stead for another strong finish, pushing as hard as I could early without making any mistakes I stayed up front for as long as possible to eventual finish in 7th position.
I was very pleased with my performance on the day but can still do better. As a privateer who works a full time job, 40-50 hrs a week, is his own mechanic, suspension tuner and trainer both on and of the bike. I think the results speak for themselves. Why do I do it, I love this sport with a passion and I wouldn‰Ûªt give it up for the world. I will keep you informed for now cheers and safe ridden Smarty No 13".
I would like to thank my sponsors, Quick-Fix Honda, Kontrol Factory Suspension, Phil Tomlin Racing Products, Fox Clothing, Dunlop Tires, C & R imports, Tag Bars & Triple Clamps, Sunraysia Hay Sales, Scott Goggles, North West Grader Hire, Bills Pipes, Club Aquarius, Sports Print and One Industries for there support & race fans, family & friends including Amanda.
