Australia's Cini rules the RI motocross roost

BOGOR, West Java (JP): Adam Cini of Australia outwitted local riders by capturing the 125cc and 250cc titles on his Indonesian motocross championships debut at the Lido circuit here on Sunday.

Cini, riding a Honda, showed his mastery in the 250cc category as he led the pack of struggling local contenders from start to finish.

Veteran Frans Tanujaya, a former national champion, offered the toughest resistance, but managed only to finish second, ahead of fellow West Javanese Aep Dadang Supriatna and Irwan Ardiansyah of Yogyakarta.

Cini went on unchallenged in the 125cc, outpacing Irwan who had to be content with second place and Aep who came third.

"I am happy to compete here and am looking forward to taking part in future motocross races," an elated Cini said afterward.

Prize money of Rp 14.5 million (US$1,350) was on offer in the event, which also featured special engine 80cc, motorpad 115cc and free-for-all races.

Race observer and organizing committee chief Helmy Sungkar attributed Cini's dazzling performance to his technique and physical fitness, of which local riders came up short.

"Our local talents lack technique compared to their foreign opponents. I hope our national riders can learn from the foreigners," Helmy said.

Helmy, however, said he was satisfied with the race organization. "The fact that there were more participants today compared to previous years surprised me a lot.

"I am optimistic that more will take part in future motocross races," he said. More than 50 riders competed altogether.

The event had a light-hearted moment when five riders under 12 years old were given a chance to race. They covered two laps of the circuit, compared to the six of the senior competitions.

Although the competition ran smoothly, security forces had trouble controlling the spectators who ran around the circuit.

Organizers charged spectators Rp 5,000 but many ticketless people managed to escape the security controls. (lnt)