New generation racing to share in Woodstock spirit
THE V8 Supercars have finished for another year, but Australia’s finest young motorcyclists will keep the good times rolling at Woodstock this weekend.
Townsville Motorcycle Club riders will race against competitors from Sydney to Darwin in all classes at the Australian Junior Track Titles starting on Saturday, including local hopes Cooper Andersen, 7, Brianne Gudge, 13 and Brayden Winterburn, 13. The three riders are following in the tracks of Townsville motorcycling star Jack Miller, who is on the verge of sealing this year’s Moto3 title.
A long journey stands between the young riders and international stardom, but Townsville Motorcycle Club spokesman John Andersen said it could be a successful weekend for local talents.
“It’s a massive bonus for these kids to have an Australian titles in their own backyard because normally they have to travel for events like this,” he said. “We’d love to have some topthree results at least, and you never know we could get some wins as well.’’
Cooper will race in the 50cc division, Brayden in the big- wheel 85cc, 125cc and four- stroke 250cc divisions, and Brianne in the junior girls’ small- wheel 85cc.
They will join more than 50 other riders at this weekend’s race, which is expected to be fitted into the one session on Saturday but will continue on Sunday if required.
Andersen said the juniors had every right to dream of following Miller.
“Jack has won numerous Australian dirt track and long- track titles, and all the road racers generally start in the dirt on flat track.” he said.
“So the next Jack Miller could potentially be out there this weekend.”
Racing starts 9am on Saturday at Lang Park, Woodstock, with $ 20 entry a car.