News 17 Jan 2023

Renewed Waters focus reduces AORC series involvement

Select off-road races still on the agenda for Husqvarna rider.

Image: Foremost Media.

Former ProMX champion and off-road contender Todd Waters has outlined a renewed focus that will reduce his Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) commitments in the 2023 season.

Waters confirmed last week that he’ll take on the task of managing the new-look Husqvarna motocross and supercross program, as well as being the lone MX1 rider for the outfit.

The 33-year-old has also stated that for the time being, he’ll step back from the full AORC series to better position his energy towards the upcoming Penrite ProMX Championship starting at Wonthaggi on 5 March.

“So basically, Husqvarna pulled me from the off-road program this year so that I could put more focus into myself, personally racing motocross, and then take on the role of running the motocross and supercross race team,” Waters explained to MotoOnline.com.au.

“They wanted me to use my energy to focus on that, so unfortunately, off-road kind of took a dive there, which is unfortunate because I really enjoyed it and, prior to hurting myself in France [ISDE], we were in the hunt for the championship, so that’s definitely something I want to continue with down the track.”

Waters ultimately finished second in the AORC E2 standings last year, also delivering standout performances to achieve podium success at the Hattah Desert Race and the Australian Four Day Enduro (A4DE).

“Husqvarna have still given me the opportunity to do selected off-road races, so I’ve planned to fit in Hattah, which was an awesome experience last year and then I’ll also try and do the A4DE,” Waters added. “If there are some AORC races that I can fit into my calendar, I’ll definitely try and ride the FE 501, so I’ll ride the E3 class, which will be fun.

“There’s also talk about this new GNCC series coming. I haven’t been able to factor that in because it’s yet to be confirmed, but that’s definitely something I’d love to fit into my future. I’m definitely not done with off-road racing, we’re just focusing on motocross and running the team this year, until we get it rolling, then I’ll step back into the off-road scene.”

Husqvarna’s off-road commitments have yet to be confirmed for 2023, with an announcement also pending as to who will join Waters in the brand’s factory motocross program.

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