With the 2013 Monster Energy MX Nationals series kicking off in just over a weeks time, New Zealand's current MX2 Motocross champion is yet to find himself a seat for the Australian series.
With the 2013 Monster Energy MX Nationals series kicking off in just over a weeks time, New Zealand’s current MX2 Motocross champion is yet to find himself a seat for the Australian series.
Columb contested the Australian Motocross and Supercross series’ aboard a Raceline Pirelli Suzuki during 2012, laying down some impressive rides throughout the year.
The likeable Kiwi made the move to the all-new JCR Yamaha team ran by Josh Coppins for 2013 and recently wrapped up the 2013 MX2 New Zealand Motocross Championship just last weekend.
Other than his impressive New Zealand performance, Columb has maintained very low key during the pre-season, admitting that he has no offers on the table for a return to Australia in 2013 at this point.
“I’ve been low key and that’s because I have nothing whatsoever,” said Columb. “I’m happy to wrap up the title for JCR Yamaha, but I don’t have anything as of yet and it’s getting pretty close to kick off – so it’s not looking that good for me.
“Serco Yamaha Have their riders and so does CDR Yamaha, however if something was to happen in the early part of the season I’m sure that they’d be interested in me knowing that I can ride a small bike or a big bike. Everyone kind of has a little bit of a back up plan, and hopefully I’m on their back up plan at least.
“Nothing was spoken of when I signed my contract with Josh, it was solely New Zealand. If I won the title here it wasn’t like I got a ride in Australia because of it, it was just a sole New Zealand deal.”
After spending nearly his entire career aboard a Suzuki, Columb made the move to Yamaha this year and would like to stay loyal to the brand if possible after already wrapping up a title on debut.
“At the moment in New Zealand I ride Yamaha and I definitely have enjoyed riding it this season, however if something was to come up in Australian on whatever bike, for me it doesn’t matter too much,” he added. “However, Yamaha have helped me out this year and I don’t like to chop and change motorcycle brands.
“I was on Suzuki’s for 13 years and now I’m on a blue bike, so I’d like to stay with Yamaha. So far I’ve been super pumped with how things have run with support and Josh’s team.”
Columb enjoyed his run in the 2012 Terex Australian Supercross Championship and will maintain close contact with his Australian associates in hopes to return for that series if he is unable to find a last minute Motocross deal.
“I had a wonderful time last year racing supercross, I’ve got a few friends in Australia that know I’m looking for a ride and I’m keen to race,” He added. “I’m keen to race and I thoroughly injoyed myself last year in the Australian Motocross and Supercross even though I was new.
“I’m going to carry on training and riding so if someone unforunately gets injured I’m then able to fill their spot. We’ll just have to wait and play it by ear.
“I think most people know I’m pretty relaxed and cruisy – so if something happens, it does. If it doesn’t, then people will probably just have to come for a motocrycle tour with me down in Queenstown, because I’ll be working down there [laughs].”
Stay tuned to MotoOnline.com.au for any updates on Columb’s movements as they arise throughout the season.