KIWI RIDER 05 2019 VOL.1 | Page 33

I was watching what was happening ahead of me and I knew my track position would be enough to take the title -METTAM “I was watching what was happening ahead of me and I knew my track position would be enough to take the title. I managed to put a gap on the riders behind me and lasted until the end. All I could hope for was that Scotty couldn’t get past Damon. It all worked out for me. Even when you’re having a bad day, you’ve just got to take those vital points. “I finished every race in the championships, which was key. I had only ever won one superbike race before, last year when I finished the season third overall. But I had five superbike race wins this season, so that’s a big improvement. “I will be back to defend the title next year, but I’ve got a couple of things coming up overseas first. I have a ride sorted out for myself at the Isle of Man. I was meant to get there last year but I broke my leg two weeks before the event and didn’t go.” Meanwhile, in the Pro Twins class, Whangamata’s Ben Rosendaal (Suzuki SV650) successfully wrapped up the title win at Taupo, edging out fellow Suzuki rider Nick Cain, of Christchurch, while former GIXXER Cup campaigner Matt Brough (Suzuki SV650), from Paraparaumu, stunned with his performance at Taupo to rocket from sixth to third in the final rankings. Brough finished 1-2-2 at Taupo, surely heralding a bright future ahead for the youngster. Other title winners this season were Rangiora’s Avalon Biddle (Supersport 600); Hamilton’s Jacob Stroud (Supersport 300 class); Papamoa’s Leon Jacobs (250 Production class); Jacob Stroud (Superlites); Australia’s Yanni Shaw (125 GP); Hamilton’s Jesse Stroud (GIXXER Cup) and Taupo’s Andy Scrivener and Tina McKeown (sidecars). KIWI RIDER 33