It’s a shot at redemption for Jarryd Oram.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The 27-year-old enters this Sunday’s Akubra Classic with distinct memories of a series of events which resulted in him relinquishing the 2017 title.
Oram raced out to an early lead in last year’s final and quickly created a large gap between himself and his nearest competitor.
“I had a bit of a lead and tried to be a bit more conservative than I usually am,” Oram told the Argus.
“On the final lap, I made a mistake and lost my momentum.”
The costly miscalculation led to Oram’s back wheel flicking out and he lost top speed.
It opened the door for Mick Kirkness to take the lead with only two turns remaining in the final and Oram was forced to settle for second place.
Salt was added to Oram’s wounds when he later found out the chequered flag was waved too late, resulting in an 11 lap race instead of the planned 10.
The mistake cost Oram his second Akubra Classic title as he was a previous champion in 2013.
However, the illusive second title may become a reality this Sunday as Oram has been in impressive form over the past 12-months.
Despite the monumental results, Oram admits it will take something special to hold off a strong field of competitors.
“Based on the state titles last month, anyone can earn the win, there was a lot of competitive racing and I am expecting it to be very close,” Oram said.
“It will make for a great day of racing.”
Oram has finished on the podium in nine of the last 11 Akuba Classics.
The Macleay District Motorcycle Club representatives for their respective divisions:
MDMCC Demonstration Riders: Jack Matthews, Harvey Nicholson, Jorja O'Donnell, Levi Sutherland, Liam Maddigan, Finn Eakin, Sonny Spurgin, Perry Kennedy, Sophie Ducat, Alastar O'Donnell and Riley Holder.
MDMC Junior riders: Chayse Trappel, Jayden Holder, Jack Fritsch, Tyler O'Donnell, Jarred Loveday, Lucas News, Harrison O'Bree, Clay Clegg, Mackenzie Booth, Taite Davis, Alex Clegg, Clay Clegg, Branden Sydenham, Lewis Tyne, Beau Baff and Logan Davis.
MDMCC Senior Riders: Jarryd Oram, Michael Booth, Josh Scott, Sam Davies, James Chapman, John Davis, Alec Hurst, Michael Kirkness, Nick Lahey, Dale Austin, Michael Rix and Jamie Oram.
There is 80 riders in total with an increase in entries for most classes, including the Akubra Classic and the 50cc Demo class which has grown from two riders in 2017 to 16 in 2018. This is evidence the junior development program run by the club is working.
Also making the news:
