Dirtbikes, the petrol-powered machines that speed past you over muddy tracks as their riders illustrate balance, speed and skill towards the finish. All the while, riders must secure points through jumps and across corners. Motocross riders make it look easy and thrilling, especially to lovers of speed.
Strategic thinking is crucial in achieving maximum points in this sport. Strength and stamina follow close behind as prerequisites of professionalism. After all, you are manoeuvring a 200-pound machine.
Motocrossers are classified into age categories that determine the MX bike types they can compete in. The junior class ranges from riders between five and 12 years old while the senior class is for those from 13.
The East Africa Challenge Motocross Championship is the largest dirtbike contest in the region. A competition that began with only two nations participating has now become popular, with most East African states sending their top riders. The registration process involves bike and gear inspection for technical conformity. Races take an average time of 12 minutes and the overall results are recorded based on points earned by team members across the various sub-groups within the classes.
Our team challenged the Uganda riders in this championship when we emerged winners in 2005. This was our first international team following several national competitions that our best riders had previously competed in. We collected 452 points, an impressive 194 points ahead of the Ugandan motocross team.
Growing our exposure on the continental scene, Kenya secured the third spot in August 2013 at the FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations Continental Championship. Our team of eight flew to Johannesburg where we faced riders from the Eastern and Southern regions at Syringa Motor Park. Tutu Maina acted as team captain with speed guys Ivan Guya, Rohan Gandhi, Masalule Kituyi and Apollo Mbuki. The junior riders under our flag were Dekker Kihara, Rolf Kihara and Alex Limo Moi. We commend these strong and passionate riders for their knack and skill at high speed. Hongera to the MX’rs!
#KeWachezaji #OurFlagBearers
