Local Rider Performs Outstandingly

By Frank Neill

Zack Furniss in action in Australia.

Young Wainuiomata motorcycle rider Zack Furniss surprised many people with just how well he rode in three trial events in Australia recently.

Often riding against much more experienced riders, Zack finished his Australian campaign, where

he represented New Zealand, with three fourth placings.

At just 11 years old Zack was the youngest rider in the team of five from New Zelaand, and he has received many favourable comments on is showing.

Zack placed fourth in the South Australian Trials Champs in Tungkillo on 23 and 24 September.

This was a great result, given that he was competing against riders of all ages and was getting used to a strange bike in foreign conditions and 30 degree heat.

He again placed fourth in the Mid-week X-Treme Trial at Mt Pleasant on 27 September.

Zack Furniss wearing the sash he received for finishing fourth in the Oceania Trials Championship.

This was a unique event with some of the sections on rocks while others were man-made.

Again Zach was against riders of all ages and the scores were tight. He was beaten by three adult riders.

In the main event, the Oceania Trials Championship at Eden Valley on the weekend of the 30

September and 1 October, Zack once again finished fourth.

This was against Junior riders from throughout Australia and the competition was tough. It could have gone either way but a couple of minor mistakes on day one cost Zack

.

In a very close competition, Australia won the Oceania title, beating New Zealand 1140108.

“We believe he is fully capable of winning his class and are hoping he can compete again next year when the Australian Championships will be in Victoria,” his father, Wayne Furness, says.

Zack is now focused on the New Zealand National Trials Championship, which will be held in Tauranga on Labour weekend.