Isle of Wight Motocross Grand Prix 2005

Motocross
By Roddy Brooks
April 21 2005

Josh Coppins is looking to repeat his first ever GP win when he returns to the Isle of Wight for the MX1 GP in August. The New Zealander has risen through the ranks of world championship racing since moving to Europe a decade ago.

After starting out with the Geboers Suzuki team in the early days, Coppins is now leading the factory Honda bid for the world title. And the Belgium-based CAS Honda rider, who is also reigning British Motocross Champion in the MX1 class, is aiming to repeat his maiden GP success.

“It’s going to be exciting. It was my first GP win and my favourite track, so all that will make it special going back,” said Coppins. “With all the facilities there, it made it one of the best GPs last year.”

Coppins also expects to get a warm welcome back to the Gore Basin circuit, near Arreton, for the August 28 race. “I’m from New Zealand but I feel like I’m part of England when I race here and that makes me feel good. The fans in England are really, really good. They treat me as one of their own almost.”

Coppins feels his hard work and the pain suffered through injury will be rewarded this year as he challenges for the title. He said, “I’m near the top, and hopefully I can get right to the top. I feel like I’m going to be able to go out and race for the championship.”

For more details on buying tickets, how to get to the race, and other important information ,log onto the GP website at www.iowmxgp.com.