Gympie youngster Max Whale has recently claimed 16 podiums and an Ohio State Title during his mission to conquer the 2016 AMA Amateur Nationals.
Across the events, the 15-year old came away with 2nd place in the 251cc – 500cc DTX stock, 3rd in the 450 Modified and a 4th in the 450 Open Singles class.
Another win was within reach in the 251cc – 500cc DTX stock class, alas Max was second to cross the finish line by half a wheels length. Another notable result was taking 3rd in the 450cc Open Singles class aboard his Kawasaki KX450F.
The Half Mile, Short Track and TT events took place in the days following with more podiums for the KX Junior Squad member.
“My Kawasaki KX450F was unbelievable and never let me down,” Whale said.
“I met some amazing people, saw some beautiful country side and learnt so much.”
Whale departed Australia in late-May this year to spend five weeks competing in various track events prior to tackling the prestigious AMA Amateur Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois.
Racing abroad for the first time, Whale acquired a KX450F racing machine from Don’s Kawasaki in Pennsylvania and knocked over 17 races in four different states while clocking approximately 10,000 kilometres travelling throughout the escapade.
The 2016 AMA Amateur Nationals ran over six days – Whale’s ultimate goal was to claim the AMA number 1 plate by becoming the highest scorer across four events including the Mile Dirt Track, Half Mile, TT and Short Track events.
“I’m happy with my results but I really wanted to win.
“Next year I’m looking forward to getting back over to the U.S. on my KX450F and standing on the top step of the podium in the overall,” Whale said.
Having already mastered his KX250F and becoming Australian Track and Junior Dirt Track Champion last year, the allure of 450cc racing got the better of the young Queenslander.
Whale wishes he could ride the 450 in Australia, but due to age restrictions, Whale is not qualified to race a 450cc motorcycle in the country.
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