The transtasman challenge for glory between the best 11 years old BMX riders was won on both fronts by the Aussies last month.
The New Zealand team – from left – Jack Kelly , Capital BMX Club Ardie Kahukura, Kaitangata club, Baiden Prescott, Brock O’Neill and Jai Matene, Mountain Raiders.
But there was a mighty story to tell about one of the the five riders selected – and who didn’t get to ride.
Te Awamutu’s Brock O’Neill, selected as number two in the boys’ team, was badly injured in a training crash two weeks before the competition in what proved to be a storm-hit Lake Macquarie.
And it was only days before the depleted team of four headed off that he was given medical clearance to travel to watch.
Te Awamutu’s Brock O’Neill, selected as number two in the boys’ team, was badly injured in a training crash.
He wanted to see how his club mates Baiden Prescott who was also selected after trials in Southland involving 21 riders, fared.
“This team is something every BMX rider in New Zealand strives to make and Te Awamutu best mates Brock and Baiden dominated the trial to make it as the number 2 and 3 riders in the team,” Te Awamutu club president Rodney Prescott said.
Tate Burdon also trialled for the team in Invercargill in March.
When Brock managed to get a clearance to fly “it was a massive boost for the team and great to have him there”.
The racing was hard and fast but in the end the Australian boys and girls teams both took wins and secured the trophies for another year.
Baiden said It was “awesome” to meet the Australian riders and make new friends and ride on different tracks.
“I can’t wait to get back there to ride again.”
The Te Awamutu BMX club will host the national champs next March.
