Abri van Tonder has been causing quite a stir in the motocross fraternity this year. Competing in the Free State and NC regional championships held in Bloemfontein, he demonstrated exceptional skills and determination on the track.
THE THRILL of a motorcycle wheel’s rubber knobs biting into and gripping loose dirt, mud, sand, and other off-road surfaces is close to the heart of Kimberley’s Abri van Tonder, a talented 10th grade learner from Northern Cape High School.
Abri, a rookie at best, has been causing quite a stir in the motocross fraternity this year. Competing in the Free State and Northern Cape regional championships held in Bloemfontein, he demonstrated exceptional skills and determination on the track.
In his first year of formal competitions, Abri has already made an impressive mark in the racing scene. Despite facing tough competition from national championship riders, he has managed to secure a commendable fourth position overall in his class, with four races still remaining in the championship.
The DFA spoke to Abri about his journey into the thrill-a-minute sport of motocross, and he revealed that his passion for the sport was ignited at a young age.
“Since I was six years old, I pleaded with my father for a motorcycle, but it didn’t materialize as quickly as I hoped,” he shared with the DFA.
Finally, however, when he reached the age of 12, his father granted his wish and purchased his first small motorcycle, unknowingly setting the wheels of his motocross journey in motion.
“After using the small bike for a few months, my father decided to upgrade me to a 250cc four-stroke when I turned 14,” van Tonder recounted. With his new bike, he started participating in off-road races and hard enduro events simultaneously, and his versatility and adaptability as a rider started to surface more and more.
It was around that time, though, that Abri saw someone competing in motocross, and that’s when he knew without a doubt what he wanted to do.
However, to meet the requirements of the new class, he had to make a difficult decision. He had to sell his beloved 250cc four-stroke and invested in a 125cc KTM two-stroke, which allowed him to compete in the motocross arena.
Then, in November of last year, Abri competed in his very first race in the MX Intermediate Class. Impressively, he emerged victorious in that class and his exceptional performance led to a recommendation to transition to the 125cc high school class.
Now, with his sights set on the future, the young rider outlined his ambitions. “My plans now are to finish in the top three in the Free State and Northern Cape regional championships. By achieving this, I hope to compete in the national circuit next year,” he said with unwavering determination.
He also expressed his desire to be selected for the highly-anticipated North vs South MX Championships set to take place in Bloemfontein.
As the racing season progresses, it will be good to keep an eye on the rising star of young Abri van Tonder to witness his continued growth and success in the motocross world.
With his talent, passion, and drive, it is only a matter of time before this dirt track warrior becomes a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.
