Exciting match-ups certain as new season begins, writes Andy McGechan.
The big annual Labour Weekend Motocross Extravaganza in Taupo looms large as the first major hit-out of the season for New Zealand's motocross elite.
World, national and provincial titles count for nothing, international credentials are expected to be challenged and past loyalties go out the window as the new season brings forward fresh and exciting match-ups this Saturday and Sunday.
Recent Suzuki Six-hour co-winner Scotty Columb (Suzuki) has been fighting wars on several fronts in the past few weeks and, after winning the marathon cross-country race (while teamed with Te Awamutu's Mark Penny), he quickly changed tack, crossing the Tasman and changing bike models to battle at the opening round of the Australian Supercross Championships last weekend.
He barely has time to catch his breath as he switches to a third motorcycling code, motocross, to race at Taupo's Digger McEwen Motocross Park this weekend.