Kiwi Rider May 2022 Vol.2 | Page 42

The fourth and final round , to be held in Central Hawke ’ s Bay on May 15 , will focus on the battles that still remain for the various separate class honours . MNZ cross-country commissioner Chris Smyth said he was encouraged by the “ sizeable turnout ” of riders this season . “ I ’ m happy with the numbers showing up , particularly considering that the pandemic had a negative effect on things early on ,” he said . “ We had a lot of quality riders out on the track . They ’ re world class riders , many of them . Just look at how many Kiwis have gone from racing this series in the past to now be racing internationally and doing so well ... individuals like Liam Draper , Dylan Yearbury , Tommy Buxton and Rachael Archer . And even James Scott too , when he raced in world enduro championship events last year . “ This competition in New Zealand can be a stepping stone to the top levels overseas , so we must be doing something right .”
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