Honda report from Wonthaggi
Honda's Pro Lite rider Danny Anderson claimed his third podium by putting in a strong result in moto two to take third overall in round 8 of the Australian Motocross Championships
Honda's Pro Lite rider Danny Anderson claimed his third podium by putting in a strong result in moto two to take third overall in round 8 of the Australian Motocross Championships. The Wonthaggi race circuit was in immaculate condition and a fast pace was set early on by Yamaha's Jake Moss making for some thrilling racing.
Shell Honda's Lewis Stewart was also fast, and set the second fastest time looking poised to emulate his winning performance at the previous round in Mackay. Although Lewis crashed in the opening laps of moto one, he rode like a man possessed to come from last to finish sixth. Danny Anderson started off well but suffered major arm pump and finished eighth, with Peter Boyle rounding out the top 10 after falling twice.
After a major regroup, the team knew that their results had to lift in moto two. Lewis and Danny gated well and were running second and third respectively, with Lewis making ground on Moss until an altercation left him sidelined. Danny soldiered on to finish third with his efforts placing him in a position to chase second in the championships.
"I stuffed up moto one by riding tight," Anderson commented. "Before moto two, I made some changes, and worked with Troy and Yarrive on getting my mind right again. I gated well and rode as hard as I could until the finish flag was waved. I am now looking forward to Lakes and gaining as many points as I can."
Lewis Stewart, on the other hand, noted his disappointed. "I knew that I had the speed to win and I am really disappointed that the weekend ended this way. I still believe with four more strong finishes that I can get inside the top five for the year. The team has made a huge difference and the atmosphere is positive, so again I want to extend my thanks for this opportunity."
Peter Boyle said things did not go well for him. "I had a bad weekend. I crashed in both motos and had to work my way back through the field which is never the way you want things to happen," he said.
Team Principal Yarrive Konsky said he was impressed with his riders. "Lewis was fast this weekend and extremely focused. I was impressed with his speed and sheer determination. Danny rode with heart in the second moto and will carry that confidence over into the following round. Peter can do so much better than what we are seeing and the team will work with him before Lakes to make some improvements. Overall the team has shown promise this year. We have achieved six overall podium finishes and are running third in the championships."