Nathan Newells' Return to Off-Road Motorcycling

Palmer, South Australia - September 13 , 2023

After an astonishing 12-year hiatus from the world of off-road motorcycling, Nathan Newell made a triumphant return to the sport at the 6hr SA Reliability Trial event held in Palmer, South Australia.

Competing against the odds on an old 2012 Husqvarna WR250 2-stroke bike, Newell showcased his enduring passion and undeniable talent, finishing 8th outright in dry and sandy conditions that challenged even the most seasoned riders.

The event kicked off with an electrifying start as Newell quickly asserted his presence on the track. After the first four stages, he found himself in a remarkable 2nd position, a mere 8 seconds behind the leader. This strong performance was a testament to Newell's innate skill and his ability to adapt to the demanding terrain.

Throughout the day, Newell delivered impressive results, securing 3 x second-place finishes and 1 x third-place finish in various tests. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for the returning rider.

Newell's old Husqvarna WR250 2-stroke bike faced its share of challenges on the rugged course. Some sections proved too rough for the vintage machine, causing Newell to lose valuable time. Additionally, lap two saw him encountering a couple crashes and making a few mistakes, causing him to slip down the rankings.

Nevertheless, Nathan Newell's comeback to the off-road motorcycling scene was a resounding success. His 8th-place finish outright is a testament to his previous experience, skill and tenacity. It was evident that he still possesses the raw speed and talent that once made him a prominent figure in the sport.

In reflection of his comeback performance, Nathan Newell expressed his optimism about his future in off-road motorcycling. "Today was a fantastic experience," he shared, "It's been a long journey back to the sport, but it's clear that I still have the speed. I just need to work on my consistency and adapt to the challenges put in front of me. I’m here with an old bike, wearing mountain bike gear and wearing an old helmet. Its a laugh and I’m having a lot of fun!"

With his first race back under his belt, Nathan Newell has his sights set on the next challenge. It will be an opportunity for him to build on his performance and continue his journey towards reestablishing himself in the world of off-road motorcycling.

Looking ahead, Nathan Newell's next opportunity will be at the event in Clare, South Australia, scheduled for September 23rd. With the last round serving as a promising glimpse into what he can achieve, fans and fellow riders are eagerly anticipating what the future holds.

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Lets see what we can do at the next one!

Pic: Steve GasGas Man