Young BMXer continues winning way in champs
Kā piti College student Tom Coleman had a great start to the year with his BMX racing winning both the Wellington Regional Championships and the South Island title in the 16-year boys category.
The Christchurch City BMX Club hosted the South Island titles at their facility in Hornby.
“There were two days of racing in very windy conditions, not ideal for jumping and close racing, so Tom had to worry about more than just going fast if he was to reclaim his South Island title,” proud father Gavin Coleman said.
“Heading into the final Tom was the first-place qualifier and chose the inside lane on the start hill.
“He managed to get a great start and headed into the first turn in the lead,” he said.
“Tom was under pressure from local rider Fred Cooper for the whole race, so he had to dig deep to hold on to his lead right to the finish line.”
A week later, back in the North Island, Tom was racing at the Wellington Regional Championships, hosted by the Hutt Valley Thunderbolts BMX Club in Upper Hutt.
“Tom managed to win the 16 boys class, but also set a new outright lap record for all ages in his final race with a 38.6 second lap.”
Tom will be heading to Brisbane to compete in the Oceania titles on February 18 and is also hoping to defend the title he won in Rotorua last year.
“Taking on the Aussies on their home turf won’t be easy, so he’s
training hard on the track and in the gym,” said Coleman
“Whatever the final results, the
trip should be a great experience.
“He’ll also be competing in the Queensland state champs in the
Junior Superclass category to get more of a taste of racing against the best BMXers in Australia.”