Australian BMX stars take over Holland

May 17, 2011

Written by Bart de Jong

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2011 National Champions Sam Willoughby and Caroline Buchanan will headline a star studded Australian line at second round of UCI Supercross World Cup in Papendal, Netherlands in two weeks time. The pair dominated 2011 Australian National Championships earlier this month in Cairns and, will head to the Netherlands full of confidence.

“It’s was pleasing to win after missing last years National Championships in Shepparton and gives me great confidence going into Holland,” said Buchanan.

South Australian, Willoughby will be determined to make the final in Papendal after failing to move through the semi final round in the season opener in South Africa. 20 year old, Willoughby overall ranked world number two was affected by illness in the opening round and had to watch on as fellow Australian Khalen Young finished second.

"There is so much depth among the Australian riders with Brian (Kirkham) riding well and Khalen (Young) picking up points in South Africa, anything could happen in Holland,” said Willoughby.

Western Australian, Young was unlucky not to make 2008 Australian Olympics team, and after finishing on the podium in South Africa earlier this year Young will be keen for another strong performance in Papendal.

Canberra’s, Caroline Buchanan's impressive season continued at 2011 BMX Australia National Championships, the 21 year-old cruised to victory in the final round of the National Series and National Championships.

Going from strength to strength in 2011 Buchanan’s eyes are firmly set on making the 2012 London Olympics team in 15 months time.

Papendal BMX complex is home to the Dutch national team and in late October 2010, the construction of a brand-new permanent track started at Papendal, this track will in many ways be similar to track being built for 2012 London Olympic Games.