Close but not quite... A race long battle with current NZ Cross Country Champion, Brad Groombridge, ended up with Brad taking the win. My build up to the event had not been ideal but at the conclusion of the race I was pretty satisfied with my performance. Obviously as a racer Im never happy with second but I take it this time.

I grabbed a good start and lead the first lap. Drizzle and long grass made conditions pretty sketchy. Brad took the lead as began the second lap and set a fast pace. I felt a little more comfortable as my armpump faded and the long grass was mostly rolled down exposing all the pig rooting and undulations that pumped me up so much that first lap.

I was able to keep Brad within reach an on the third lap a mistake handed the lead back to me. For the next few laps the cat and mouse game played out, with Brad and myself locked in our own private race for the win. The drizzle continued to make conditions slippery and horrible for goggles although the Oakleys were soaking it all up in style.

At the end of the second to last lap I lost a bit of drive trying to negotiate a lapped rider and Brad jumped on the opportunity and grabbed the lead. A quick splash of gas and we both entered the last lap together with Brad just in front. I took my shot at retaking the lead in the rooty pines near the start but it didn’t quite come off. Brad rode a great race to claim the win.

1st: Brad Groombridge
2nd: Paul Whibley
3rd: Barry Morris / Cam Negus

Paul Whibley is supported by: PWR Yamaha, Arai, TCX, Oakley, G2, Asterisk, MotoSR, Vortex Ignitions, EC3D, Bush Riders MCC, Rosscos Start Up Services, Dirt Guide, Tire Balls,Renthal bikesportnz.com, CarbSport, FMF, Michelin, Yamalube CV4 GYTR, IMS ONeal, Rekluse, Workshop graphics, Motomuck, NZXC Series