Australia's Cini rules the RI motocross roost
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)