Mittens Takes National MX 125cc Title
Port Elizabeth has a proud history of hosting Motocross Events at the sandy Rover Motorcycle Club MX track and once again it produced a spectacular show for the 2012 Finale.
Months of preparation produced the Best Organised Event of the year on one of the toughest tracks in the country with its deep beach sand favouring the coastal riders and challenging the Highveld riders.
Once again the weather gods had dished up rain and wind to start the day off but nothing could dampen the rider’s spirits at the final with many class results to be decided on the day.
The 125cc MX class is often regarded as the crucial stepping stone in a riders career and past winners of this SA championship title have gone on to win World championships. This two stroke machine must be kept at high revs, a difficult task in thick sand, to get the maximum horsepower out of the small motor, and then be ridden as nimble and light as possible to almost float over the surface, any mistake could cost countless seconds as the bike fights to gain momentum again.
The sun had come out and the crowds began to flock to the event which had turned into a carnival atmosphere with many stalls a beer garden and feverish commentating keeping spirits high. The final race was at home for championship leader Justin Mittens, and he was eager to show his fans his talent.
Getting out of the gates to a good start Justin surged ahead of the field and rounded turn two already a few bike lengths ahead, his smooth style dominating both heats and stamping his name on the 2012 trophy with a flawless display of sand riding. “I love riding at Rover and today the track was awesome, all the hard work has finally paid off, now I am the Champion!” said Mittens. Second place for the day went to Reid Sinnicks and Third to Jessie Wright who took 2nd overall for the year.
The MX2 class was also a hotly contested affair with Justin deciding to ride his 125cc bike in this class too. The track was still wet for the first heat and didn’t suit the small bike but Justin managed to hang on to a 6th place all the while concentrating on winning the 125cc title. He will contest this class in a much more serious way next season.
Justin would like to thank all his sponsors for their efforts this year Scott – Sports SA, Mitas Racing, Tublis, Pelotrain Athlete Excellence, Go Bike wash, Red Bull and Barney’s Tavern.