Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

1 day ago

DUNCAN WRAPS UP THIRD WMX WORLD TITLE IN TRENTINO

PIETRAMURATA (Italy) 23 October 2021 – Courtney Duncan of Bike it MTX Kawasaki wrapped up her third consecutive FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship title at the final round in Trentino.

The Kiwi entered the final stage of the series with a 16-point advantage over her closest rival Kiara Fontanesi, but some bad luck in the races prevented the Italian from taking the battle to the final race as Duncan was able to secure the gold plate by the end of the first race.

In race one, it was Larissa Papenmeier of Yamaha Racing 423 who grabbed the holeshot. Fontanesi and Duncan were a little further behind on the opening lap. Bad luck struck Fontanesi not long after as she went down hard after getting caught up with another rider.

Papenmeier then led Amandine Verstappen of 9MM Energy Drink Bud Racing Kawasaki, Nancy Van De Ven of Ceres 71 Racing, Duncan and Lynn Valk. Van De Ven wasted no time to get into second place, as Fontanesi picked herself up in 32nd after her crash.

Duncan then caught onto the back wheel of Verstappen and passed her for third position on lap four. Meanwhile Van De Ven tried several times to get within striking distance of Papenmeier but could not make it happen as Papenmeier secured her first race victory of the season. Van De Ven finished third, while Duncan crossed the line third as the 2021 WMX Champion.

Fontanesi managed to get back to 15th place, but it was not enough to take the title fight to the final race.

In race two, it was once again Papenmeier with the holeshot as she led Duncan and Fontanesi. Valk started well once again as she was in fourth place, while Van De Ven was ninth on the opening lap.

Moments later we saw a repeat of what happened in race one, as Fontanesi went down once again and was right at the back of the field.

Papenmeier then led Duncan, Valk, Sara Andersen, Van De Ven, Talia O’Hare of Honda 114 Motorsport and Verstappen. But by the second lap we saw a change for the lead as Duncan was able to get around the German.

Van De Ven was also setting herself up to launch an attack on Andersen, as Fontanesi got by Giorgia Montini for 10th.

Duncan then stretched the lead to 4.391 seconds over Papenmeier who continued ahead of Valk and Van De Ven who finally managed to get by Andersen.

Duncan had full control of the race until the chequered flag, to add race win number five of the season as Papenmeier crossed the line second ahead of Van De Ven who was able to get by Valk.

With a race win and a second, Papenmeier won the final round of the series, with Duncan second on the podium, while Van De Ven was third.

In terms of the championship, Duncan secured her third consecutive world title as Nancy Van De Ven finished the 2021 season with the silver medal ahead of Fontanesi who had to settle for bronze.

With 268 points, Kawasaki win the WMX Manufacturers Championship ahead of Yamaha and GasGas.

Courtney Duncan: “Obviously it was a good season with good battles, good races and bad races. I just made the best out of every situation this year, fought for every point I could, and it feels great to win a third championship. It hasn’t probably really sunk it yet, but it will feel good tomorrow and the days to come. My day today started off not too bad. The first race I got third and I got a little nervous there. The girls out front ran really good but I was able to finish third and obviously close the championship with a race to go. I think I was in control with a couple laps into the race and rode really well to keep myself in that position. It was nice to end the season with a win and I am going to enjoy it”.

Nancy Van De Ven: “I put some pressure on myself because of course everyone who’s here wants to win a world title. But when you come close a few times, you want it even more and more because you almost taste it. I came here with a lot of points from second in the championship so It was pretty unexpected that I take the second place. It was unexpected but also a really nice way to end this difficult season. Today my riding felt really good. In the first race I was feeling so confident, but I just could not make a pass in the beginning of the race to lead, and I finished in second position. I had some good battles. In the second race I had a good start going into the first turn. But after I got a little close, had to give away a few positions and had to come a little bit from behind. Then I managed to come back to third position and third on the podium. This was a pretty nice way to end the season as well”.

Kiara Fontanesi: “I am happy about what I could give because I think it’s the best season I’ve had so far. Not in terms of results, but I have been really competitive on the bike. I felt really great, and I think the setup that I have is the best that I have ever had. So, I am really happy about that and about the speed and everything. For sure, I wanted to win but I had to deal with such bad luck this season and I think the bad luck won. It’s something that’s not up to me, so I cannot do anything about it. I just could be happy and proud of the races I could do, I hope not to have this bad luck next season”.

Larissa Papenmeier: “For sure. It was good to end the season like that. I was struggling a bit the whole season. I had some body problems. It was difficult for me for sure but really nice to end the season with a win. Also, well deserved to Courtney for the title, she deserved it and I am really happy for her”.

WMX - Race 1 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Larissa Papenmeier (GER, Yamaha), 24:30.310; 2. Nancy Van De Ven (NED, Yamaha), +0:02.596; 3. Courtney Duncan (NZL, Kawasaki), +0:03.889; 4. Amandine Verstappen (BEL, Kawasaki), +0:13.690; 5. Lynn Valk (NED, Husqvarna), +0:16.957; 6. Shana van der Vlist (NED, KTM), +0:20.726; 7. Daniela Guillen (ESP, KTM), +0:27.670; 8. Sara Andersen (DEN, KTM), +0:29.202; 9. Tahlia Jade O'Hare (AUS, Honda), +0:51.209; 10. Malou Jakobsen (DEN, KTM), +0:59.109;

WMX - Race 2 – Top 10 Classification: 1. Courtney Duncan (NZL, Kawasaki), 24:51.718; 2. Larissa Papenmeier (GER, Yamaha), +0:08.063; 3. Nancy Van De Ven (NED, Yamaha), +0:13.235; 4. Lynn Valk (NED, Husqvarna), +0:14.133; 5. Sara Andersen (DEN, KTM), +0:14.716; 6. Daniela Guillen (ESP, KTM), +0:30.848; 7. Kiara Fontanesi (ITA, GASGAS), +0:38.501; 8. Amandine Verstappen (BEL, Kawasaki), +0:39.459; 9. Shana van der Vlist (NED, KTM), +0:40.836; 10. Tahlia Jade O'Hare (AUS, Honda), +0:54.674;

WMX - Overall Top 10 Classification: 1. Larissa Papenmeier (GER, YAM), 47 points; 2. Courtney Duncan (NZL, KAW), 45 p.; 3. Nancy Van De Ven (NED, YAM), 42 p.; 4. Lynn Valk (NED, HUS), 34 p.; 5. Amandine Verstappen (BEL, KAW), 31 p.; 6. Sara Andersen (DEN, KTM), 29 p.; 7. Daniela Guillen (ESP, KTM), 29 p.; 8. Shana van der Vlist (NED, KTM), 27 p.; 9. Tahlia Jade O'Hare (AUS, HON), 23 p.; 10. Kiara Fontanesi (ITA, GAS), 20 p.;

WMX – Championship Top 10 Classification: 1. Courtney Duncan (NZL, KAW), 268 points; 2. Nancy Van De Ven (NED, YAM), 237 p.; 3. Kiara Fontanesi (ITA, GAS), 227 p.; 4. Larissa Papenmeier (GER, YAM), 214 p.; 5. Shana van der Vlist (NED, KTM), 197 p.; 6. Amandine Verstappen (BEL, KAW), 184 p.; 7. Lynn Valk (NED, HUS), 174 p.; 8. Sara Andersen (DEN, KTM), 159 p.; 9. Daniela Guillen (ESP, KTM), 154 p.; 10. Tahlia Jade O'Hare (AUS, HON), 112 p.;

WMX - Manufacturers Classification: 1. Kawasaki, 268 points; 2. Yamaha, 246 p.; 3. GASGAS, 230 p.; 4. KTM, 213 p.; 5. Husqvarna, 174 p.; 6. Honda, 112 p.; 7. Suzuki, 39 p.; ... Read MoreSee Less

Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

1 day ago

Kiwi motocross star Duncan powers to third straight world championship title

Kiwi Courtney Duncan has powered her way to a third successive women's motocross world championship.

Duncan, 25, held a 16-point lead over Italian Kiara Fontanesi heading into Sunday's (NZ time) final round at Trentino, Italy.

And the New Zealander cruised to victory, wrapping up the title in the first of two races, when Fontanesi struggled to a 15th-placed finish after an early collision.

Duncan crossed the line third, behind German winner Larissa Papenmeier, before finishing the season in style, banking her fifth win, after a second-lap pass on the race one winner.

The Otago native finished 31 points clear of Dutchwoman Nancy Van De Ven, with Fontanesi fading to third a further 10 points back.

"Obviously, it was a good season, with good battles, good races and bad races," says Duncan. "I just made the best out of every situation this year, fought for every point I could and it feels great to win a third championship.

"It probably hasn’t really sunk it yet, but it will feel good tomorrow and the days to come. The first race I got third, and I got a little nervous there and stiff in the first half of the race.

"The girls out front ran really good, but I was able to finish third and obviously close the championship with a race to go.

"That was quite nice - when you’re aiming to be there, it kind of limits the risks. To win that last race obviously with a better start, I think I was in control a couple laps into the race and rode really well to keep myself in that position.

"It was nice to end the season with a win and I am going to enjoy it."

Image - Photosport, video - Newshub Courtney Duncan in action ... Read MoreSee Less

Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

5 days ago

Hello MNZ members and family. The Covid 19 restrictions have hit our organisation very hard.

Particularly in Auckland, where we hit 65 days in either Level 4 or Level 3 strict lock down rules.

Many of our events have had to be cancelled or postponed until early next year.

Listening to the MOH officials there are a number of side effects such as financial strain, isolation from friends and family especially when they live in different parts of the country.

Also of concern is the fact that many of our members are not able to ride their motorcycles.

Hopefully we will reach the vaccination target of 90% target shortly, so that we can get back to Safe, Fun and Fair times.

I would like to encourage you to stay in contact with your friends and family during these times particularly those who might live by themselves.

If you are feeling depressed, or this long lockdown is taking its toll on you, reach out for help.
I will list a few websites as a prompt if you feel the need.

Good times are coming along with many hours of social or competition riding.

Hang in there and be kind.

covid19.govt.nz/health-and-wellbeing/looking-after-your-mental-wellbeing/
mentalhealth.org.nz/
www.mentemia.com/nz/covid-19
mherc.org.nz/directory/helplines
www.lifeline.org.nz/

Paul Pavletich
MNZ
President ... Read MoreSee Less

Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

5 days ago

NZ MINI’s MX CHAMPS

In consultation with the MNZ Board, The MX Commission, Christchurch Off-Road MCC and School Sport New Zealand, regret to advise that the 2021 NZ Mini MX Nationals, proposed for the 20 & 21st of November 2021, is now cancelled due to the current on-going uncertainty with Covid-19.

It is disappointing that we need to make such decisions and we too know and share the sadness competitors, families, and supporters will be feeling.
We take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all those who make these events possible.

Concern continues to be the safety and welfare of everyone that supports this event.
With this strain of Covid-19 more susceptible to younger children, we want to ensure we do not put any one at risk.
We also need to ensure that a successful event can be run within the Covid-19 restrictions, and with changes to event delivery protocol changing regularly, this has only increased the uncertainty.

MNZ and the MX Commission is still committed to hosting a great event in 2022 as scheduled and we thank all persons already involved in the planning of this event

Kind Regards,
Gretchen Pirika, Board Member MNZ.
Mike Kerrisk, General Manager MNZ ... Read MoreSee Less

Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

6 days ago

ALERT LEVEL UPDATE

Good Afternoon,

The following update is bought to you outlining current allowances to running events and public gatherings, in accordance with Government and Sport NZ information, today – Thursday 21st October.
For any of our clubs and members who have been planning to run open-air events of any kind over this weekend, and up until we are informed of change - Please take the time to read through the below information carefully.
This information will act as a guide-line to ensure you have appropriate measures in place and your events will be delivered as safely and efficiently as possible.

General Alert Level Updates

For those in the Waikato, boundaries continue to cover the Waitomo District, including Te Kuiti, as well as the Waipa and Otorohanga Districts. These areas are currently in a strict Alert Level 3, which does not include the easing of restrictions afforded to Auckland.

Current alert level tables carrying detailed guidance are available on our Sport NZ website These have now been updated including the following amends:

Changes to gatherings numbers in Alert Level 2

There are currently no restrictions on the number of people that can attend a gathering – which includes local sport and recreation involving contact sport. However, it is recommended that groups remain in numbers of 100 persons [maximum] and that groups [bubbles] should refrain from inter-mingling.
Spectators attending a local sporting event should stay 2m apart from people they do not know, wear a face covering wherever possible, and follow all other contact tracing and hygiene guidelines.
Contact tracing and/or recording a log of all persons attending your events is required and measures must be taken to manage this accurately and efficiently.
While the previous MNZ ruling around limited numbers [50pax] per bathroom/toilet facilities has now been lifted, it is asked that event organisers take every precaution in ensuring appropriate numbers of clean facilities for all attendees.

Spectators attending an event at a stadium or arena should safely stay 1 metre apart.

Updated Alert Level 3, Stage 1 for Auckland

A reminder that people can now meet with other people from up to 10 households at a time for organised group activities as long as this is outside, and the total number of people is not greater than 10. Physical distancing must be maintained between people from different households at all times.

MNZ are here to assist clubs and riders in any way possible to ensure the utmost safety and compliance during these times. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding these new levels of COVID-compliance

Note: This update is based on current information obtained from authorities such as Sport NZ and Auckland DHB. This information is subject to change at any time

Kind Regards,
Mike Kerrisk – General Manager, Motorcycling New Zealand ... Read MoreSee Less

Motorcycling New Zealand Inc

6 days ago

WHAT'S ON THIS WEEKEND

Friday 22 October
Battle of the Teams hosted by Taupo MCC

Saturday 23 October
Huka Honda MX Fest hosted by Taupo MCC
Waimate 50 Hillclimb hosted by Canterbury ATV Association
Twin Peaks Trail Ride hosted by Mosgiel District MCC
Jaks Day in the Dirt hosted by Nelson MCC

Sunday 24 October
Greymouth Club Day hosted by Bucket Racing NZ ... Read MoreSee Less