ROAD NEWS
Day Cemetery Circuit . Motocross didn ’ t miss out and it was a very young Josh Coppins who first signed to Suzuki in a contract penned by Tom . Josh went on to become a world title contender , narrowly being pipped for a second spot during the 2002 World Motocross Championships . In 2003 , Tom expanded the marketing responsibilities to also include developing the motor vehicle division . Since that time , Tom has been instrumental in growing Suzuki from a mere 1200 units per year to record results over 8000 units in some years . It was also during this time that the Suzuki Swift became a success story for the motor vehicle department with sales improving not only market share but the dealer network across the country . His passion for motorsport flowed across to the motor vehicle division helping develop the highly successful Swift Sport Cup series in conjunction with Paul Burborough from the Winger Group .
The one-make series was highly competitive and proved to be a great arena for young talent to develop their skills . In 2011 Tom was promoted to CEO and guided Suzuki New Zealand through some difficult post- GFC territory . Suzuki New Zealand is one of the few company-owned distributors that does not have a resident Japanese staff member , which reflects the confidence and trust they have had in Tom ’ s management . In 2018 , Marine made a welcome return to the umbrella of Suzuki New Zealand following a 20-year absence . Since the change in distributor , market share has more than doubled under his management . Retirement for Tom will be the start of a new adventure as he uproots and moves to be closer to his two daughters in Australia . However , we ’ re sure his face will be one of the many at Phillip Island for the MotoGP .
80 KIWI RIDER