Aaron Wiltshier

From mini to pro

maddix park mx

Huge congratulations to Aaron Wiltshier who, from today, 10th October 2014, is a pro-MX racer and the official 250 cc rider joining MX1 riders Cody Cooper and John Phillips as part of the Honda Shop Race Team.

We are not at all surprised.  He has been bitten by the MX bug since he received his first bike for Christmas when he was 5. Aaron opened all his little presents but there was one more "big" one hidden behind the couch!  From there it was all on, he was hooked.

Aaron was instantly one of the “hard” riders.  He rode so hard that he broke the bike’s suspension and in the first 6 months, the little JR50 had to be put back together 3 times !  We watched him ride at Maddix Park, watched his speed increase, his technique improve, his fearlessness on the jumps.  We witnessed his absolute passion for the sport and his determination to succeed. We also knew that, each time the telephone rang at 6.30am on a Sunday morning, it would be young Aaron asking if the track was open.

Aaron won mini titles in the 50cc and 65cc classes but it hasn’t always been easy; the junior years, in particular, were interrupted by a number of crashes. The injuries took their toll but each time Aaron came back stronger and more committed than ever.  He did not give up.

In 2014, he rode outstandingly to win the Woodville Grand Prix 125cc crown but his aspirations for the 2014 national title in the same class were thwarted.  He was in 3rd place after round 1 and had got up to 2nd in round 2 when he popped his shoulder in a bike tangle. A second place in the final round of the nationals meant Aaron finished 3rd overall, in the same position as the previous year.

The result may have been disappointing for Aaron, but nothing could disguise the potential in the young Tauranga rider.  Ben Townley spotted this potential and came up with some options, guidance and training - support that Aaron greatly appreciates. However, Aaron’s own passion, perseverance, commitment and dedication allied with his obvious talent have been key factors that have brought about this opportunity for a professional career.

Aaron is looking forward to this new season with the Honda Shop Pro Racing Team. He’s on a great bike and has great support from the other riders, from owner, Phil Empson, and, of course, from his family.  The first race meeting for the team will be the Taupo Labour Weekend Extravaganza. 

We are particularly proud of Aaron. Lots of young riders have experienced the exhilaration and the adrenalin buzz of MX for the first time by riding the tracks at Maddix Park.  Aaron is the first of these riders to live the dream and go “pro”.

We wish him every success and the team as well.

 
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