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Suzuki 4-Hour report
The Suzuki 4 Hour Taupo has made a great start held in perfect
weather in Taupo on Saturday 22 August.
Talk about tension on the start line with 250 motorbikes and 350 riders set
to unleash themselves on the course.
The boom of a shotgun signaled the start and the bikes roared off the
line.
Sam Greenslade had his Husqvarna pinned and lead the way around the
first turn followed closely by Epic Events staff member Mike Gibbons.
What an amazing site as the bikes flowed around the 2.5km grass track
before disappearing in to the bush.
About 26 minutes later Greenslade arrived back into the grass track
having kept his lead.
A top contender Brad Groombridge ran out of an essential item early in
the race – fuel. This put his
Suzuki team including Rennie Johnston out of contention.
With one lap to go, it was Greenslade leading, the Kawasaki team of Nick
Saunders and Rhys Carter followed by the KTM team of Karl Power and Jason
Davis. These 3 riders set off
almost together on the final lap that was to extend the race to about 4:20.
Nick Saunders was first to emerge in to the final grass track and took
the win over Greenslade. Saunders
and Carter are 2 local Taupo Motocross hot shots and they used their MX ability
and fitness when it counted most – the last lap. The blisters on Sam's hands were evidence of the huge effort
made by this young 19 year old racer who so nearly gained top honours, but
still can be proud of his effort. The
final podium spot was claimed by the KTM team of Karl Power and Jason Davis.
Ironman Rory Mead took 4th spot with Adrian Smith claiming 5th. Long team Epic Events staff members
Mike Gibbons and Paul McDowell made the most of a great start and took 6th
place. Another great effort was
from Suzuki Husband and Wife team of Mark and Ilana Penny who finished 10th
overall.
Congratulations everyone for the big effort on a demanding track.
This event is here to stay and in 2010, we will add
some more 3rd gear stuff and less top gear.