Pennington’s Dylan races to national enduro title
Next year he'll be moving up a level to 250cc bikes, but hasn't decided whether to enter the 2-stroke or 4-stroke category.
Dylan Cox (17) of Pennington has capped a Covid-19 affected year with a resounding win in the MSA National Enduro Championships High School Class.
Not bad in his first year at this level.
It was raced in sweltering conditions. “Longest day of my life,” said the champ with a smile in an interview seconds after securing the victory.
“It was hot and bumpy, but what’s a few hours of pain when the championship is forever.”
There were two races before Covid hit, and two after lockdown was eased, with the final one being raced in Creighton.
The Scottburgh High pupil did enough in this time to emerge as a worthy champion, racing on his RBS Yamaha YZ125 bike.
And no, he’s no relation to the legendary Alfie Cox (he’s KTM) but he wouldn’t mind emulating some of his achievements in years to come.
Before that, though, there’s the matter of his grade 11 exams to get through.
Unfortunately (fortunately?) for him, he’ll have more time to study as the Roof of Africa has been cancelled.
To say he was miserable to hear this news was an understatement!
Dylan, who is the son of Kevin and Lynette, has been riding since he was eight years old.
One of his career highlights was winning the regionals last year on an 85cc bike.
A lowlight was losing out on a chance to win the offroad champs when he experienced mechanical failure.
He was relatively injury-free this year, but has had his fair share of bumps, bruises and breaks, including a broken collar bone and a ‘popped out’ shoulder.
Next year he’ll be moving up a level to 250cc bikes, but hasn’t decided whether to enter the 2-stroke or 4-stroke category.
It will be his matric year and some bookwork will be required. Plus, he’s a prefect.
This may mean a reduced schedule, with a focus on the national events.
He also plays first team water polo and swims for the school so has a fair amount on his plate at the moment.
All in all, he’s looking forward to a big season next year, and will have his younger brother Damon (15) alongside, competing in the high school category.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
