Riders ready for big motocross revolution

RIDERS from New South Wales and South Australia are among a big field of entries for the newly-formed Warrnambool Motocross Club's inaugural two-day competition at Lake Gillear this weekend.The feature event, previously run on the Australia Day weekend by Warrnambool Motorcycle Club, will be held a week earlier to avoid clashing with the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic, as well as easing the accommodation squeeze for travelling competitors.Warrnambool Motocross Club race secretary John Maher said yesterday the meeting was the biggest held at Lake Gillear's 1.5km track and carried $500 prizemoney for the winner of the A grade dash for cash."There are 23 classes, with several combined," Maher said."There will be 64 races over two days and in senior A, B, C and D grade a dash for cash. We've had strong support from local businesses to run the event."Maher said Warrnambool Motocross Club was formed 12 months ago to comply with state and national rules and regulations. "The motocross club hires the facilities off Warrnambool Motorcycle Club," he said."This is our first event and we hope to hold another on February 24, which is the first round of the Western region series."As well as interstate entries, the two-day event this weekend has attracted riders from a range of Victorian country centres.Maher said leading south-west riders included Jack Downing, of Warrnambool, in the 450cc A grade class, Jeremy Laycock, of Warrnambool, B grade lites; Austin Patterson, of Terang, C grade 65cc; and Jacob Smith, Mepunga, A grade 125cc and 85cc.Racing fires up at 8.15am tomorrow and Sunday at the Lake Gillear track for a big weekend of racing.