With 33 races and 31 weekends of racing behind him, rising young motocross star Thor Johnson (9) sees an exciting 2017 coming to a close.
Thor has had many highlights, but in his biggest MX50 class race yet – the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) Motocross of African Nations – in August near Gaborone, Botswana, he placed fifth overall.
At season end the young champion had achieved 21 podiums in five major series and participated in two part-time series, with two championships. He placed second in the regionals, seventh in the nationals and second again in the FIM Southern African Continental Championship.
He didn’t achieve his desired top five in the South African nationals but he made good strides and had a lot of fun, especially seeing friends and family.
Indeed, the Bryandale Primary youngster spends as much time with his family and especially his dad, Damien, as he races.
Damien is very proud of Thor’s success.
“I used to race myself and it was obvious to get him a bike so that we can ride together. He was around three or four years old when he learned to ride his bicycle. We took him to a race and he took to it,” he said.
Thor says he wants to become a world champion. He is confident that it will happen soon, perhaps even by next year.
Both Thor and Damien are excited about next year. Thor will go on to race the 65cc class and to prepare, he has already been riding a 2013 KTM for some time.
“Now it’s full-time on the bigger bike with a clutch and gears, tons more speed and lots more fun,” Damien said.
Even though Damien said the power to weight ratio on the 65cc can be a lot to handle, Thor is not phased at all. He can handle it, he said. Damien said he has the same attitude on the track. He is confident and focused.
“What he has achieved in the last three years since he started riding is amazing.”
Thor’s advice? Listen to your parents, focus on what you are doing and be good in school. Thor says he enjoys school, even though sometimes he would rather ride.
As for Damien, he believes parents should put in the effort to support whatever it is their children put the effort in to excel at. “Give them anything you can.”
DJ Busbar Manufacturing, Serina Trading, RAD Moto KTM, Vision Racing SA, KRS Fire, Simply Gardens, Sheer Branding, Nana, M14, Turtle Wax and Bearded Bro have helped him with on- and off-track support throughout the year. And from next year, Thor will receive a kit sponsorship from Thor MX Clothing.
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