Maitland’s Luke George has taken a clean sweep of the opening round of the FIM Asia SuperMoto Championship, winning Sunday’s race at Newcastle’s iconic foreshore after blitzing the field on Saturday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Malaysia’s Muhammad Habibullah finished second to claim third overall, with Michael Kirkness third in the final leg and runner-up for the round.
George also took a clean sweep of the Pro class and praised organisers for a well-run event.
“I had an awesome weekend,” George said. “Coming into this event I had no idea where I would sit in the mix. To be honest I was just hoping to make the top five.
“To race against a class field like this and come out in front is a real surprise. This is a fantastic event and I will definitely be back to defend my title next year.”
It was a fairytale comeback for George, who retired from professional racing in 2010.
The former national motocross champion said he had a ball.
"It was the first time I have ever raced SuperMoto, and I loved it,” George said.
“I’ve raced some club days locally, but I haven’t raced professionally since 2010, so it was great to be out there racing against a really talented line-up of racers.
“This is an awesome event and I will definitely be back next year if they will have me.”
Michael Kirkness also claimed dual podiums, finishing third in the Open class.
“It has been such a long time since I raced SuperMoto it is certainly not my forte so I was stoked to be on the podium in both classes today.
“This is an incredible event, hats off to the organisers I will be back next year.”
Finishing second behind George in Sunday’s final 30 minute FIM Asia SuperMoto race, Muhd Habibullah said he capitalised when a few riders made mistakes.
“I was at an advantage when a few riders made mistakes in beginning of the race. That promoted me to third spot since the start. Andy (McLiesh) attempted to overtake me a few times but I managed to hold him at bay.
"I am really proud with my performance today and hope for the same in Malang.”
Local riders swept the Open class with Scott Saul claiming the top step of the dais ahead Lee Stevens and Brett Rowe.
Paul Caslick dominated the Vets class while Karina Baillie won the Women’s class.
Another record crowd flocked to the foreshore to enjoy a full day of racing at Graeme Boyd Motorcycles presents the Watson Demolition Newcastle City SuperMoto and were treated to world-class racing action.
Newcastle has secured the Australian round of the FIM Asia SuperMoto Championship for the next three years.
