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We catch up with the 2012 South African Motocross MX2 National Champion Anthony Raynard and chat about the 2012 season and more. Also check out the awesome footage of Anthony killing it at the Zone 7 track in Cape Town.
How does it feel to be the new SA MX2 Champion?
Truly an amazing feeling and I’m so proud to be champion this year amongst strong competitors.
What did you do different this season compared to others to come out on top?
I was very consistent throughout the year and worked hard on and off the bike. With all the vital elements put together, it definitely paid off.
Which race would you say was the hardest this year and why?
Teza national in Richards Bay. In the first heat, a number of start gates malfunctioned so half way around the 1st lap they put out the red flag to stop the race and restart. While I rode over the finish jump as the red flag was out a rider didn’t see it and landed on me. My arm got caught in his rear wheel leaving me with some deep, open wounds. I had to jump on the line straight away and race like that the whole day.
Which race was the easiest?
This is a tough question as all the races have been really challenging this year. However, going into Cape Town National I felt so good and was going out there to win both motos.
Who was your closest competition this year?
Kerim Fitzgerald, Richie van der Westhuizen and Wyatt Avis.
What one thing stood out for you this season?
SA Motocross was at a really high level this year. The riders are really fast and have what it takes to go battle overseas if the opportunities were easy to come by.
How did you celebrate your championship?
When I arrived back home from PE national, I had a good night out with my friends and family.
What are your plans and goals for 2013?
I would like to defend my MX2 title next year and if I get the opportunity to do a few races overseas, I would love to go!
What team will you be riding for in 2013?
I am currently not 100% sure.
In your video you are throwing a few scrubs and whips. Explain how to do the perfect whip?
Haha! It definitely isn’t the easiest to explain in a few words but I will try give a short description. If you are comfortable with jumping and feel safe while taking off, through the air and landing then you can try start whipping.
Work with your body while going up the jump, try leaning slightly to whichever side you want to whip and your head and shoulders will dictate where your bike is going to go. As with any trick, your body and bike will follow where your head and shoulders are aimed. You should already be starting to look at your landing. Remember to keep your one leg holding the bike in place to ensure you don’t lose the bike. When you get ready to land the whip, give it gas to straighten the bike up with the gyroscopic effect of the rear wheel.
Now that the season is over – what are you going to do with the rest of 2012?
We have a few regional races remaining in Cape Town, which I will attend, and then take a bit of break.
Who would you like to thank?
I’m so grateful to have amazing sponsors that helped me achieve my goals and win the MX2 Championship. I can’t thank them enough for everything throughout the year. Also a big thanks to my family, friends and everyone that supported me!
Portable Shade, Honda South Africa, Red Bull, Fly Racing, Leatt Brace, Novik Gloves, Pelotrain Athlete Excellence, Virgin Active, C1RCA Apparel, Paul’s Specialized Products, Tim Bosson Engineering, FCR Suspension, DirtRider Motorcycles, TRP Distributors, Pulse Racing Products, GO Products, Liqui Moly Lubricants
