Horsham motocross rider Josh McLean has found international success, winning the opening round of an American championship.

McLean, riding in a pro-lite category, secured victory at the American Motocross Association, AMA, Supermoto in Primm, Nevada.

The supermoto involved international and American riders on a combination of dirt and sealed circuit on motocross bikes with road-bike wheels.

McLean participated in the event despite having injured his ribs in a crash prior to the event.

“My partner told me if I didn’t want race, then it was up to me; but she told me to harden up because it was a long way to fly to America and not to compete,” he said.

McLean said he prepared for the event by training at South Coast Track Days in Warrnambool.

“They have been the only kart-track club in Victoria willing to allow me access to train on a kart track,” he said.

McLean thanked his colleague Glen Fuller, who found accommodation for him in America, and his sponsor MCR Supermoto.

He said he had finished second in a Pro Open Supermoto unlimited CC event at the Victorian State Championships at Broadford State Motoring Sports Complex before  entering the AMA Supermoto.

“The guy who beat me, Adam Miller, was the former Supermoto National Champion. He is a tricky competitor – I have never beaten him before,” he said. 

McLean said there were some positives in losing to Miller. 

“It always sucks to finish second, but last time I rode against him, he beat me a solid margin; now he beats me by barely anything,” he said.

McLean said he hoped to continue to compete in America.

“Trying to get some financial backing will be difficult and you need to get back, we need to find some funding,” he said.

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