2008 was the debut year for both Curtis (8) and Mitchell (6) within the WAJMCC (West Australian Junior Motorcycle Club). Curtis raced his Suzuki RM65 in the 65cc C/D Grade class, whilst Mitchell competed in the Division 1 50cc class aboard his KTM Mini Adventure.

From shaky beginnings, both boys made fantastic progress to each finish outright 3rd in their respective division at the end of the year. Mitchell also received a Most Improved award, given to a total of 5 riders of varying ages in 2008 (from approximately 150 competing members), recognising the significant progress he made throughout the year in developing his riding skills.

The boys were instructed throughout the course of the season to concentrate on building the foundations of a competent MX rider (body position, technique, etc.), rather than simply trying to go flat out. In addition to casual coaching from experienced friends and fellow club members, both boys received professional coaching from Jamie Munroe.

Many MX riders reach a cap in their ability (and their racing career) in later years, because of bad techniques picked up as a junior. It’s hard to change bad habits as an adult, but comparatively easy to learn correctly from the beginning, especially as a child.

During the year, the boys competed in all club rounds and two open events gaining valuable experience against a variety of competitors in varying weather conditions. They ventured from their home track towards the end of the season, and revelled in the loamy surface of Beverley, as opposed to the hard-pack surface that is Eric Walter Park (WAJMCC – Chidlow).