Karratha’s Jake Watling dominates Hedland motocross King of the Coast

The Port Hedland Motorcycle Club played host to the King of the Coast at the weekend, attracting the Pilbara’s best riders. It was an action-packed Saturday and Sunday, with four rounds of racing, mums’ pit bike racing, and games under lights. Karratha’s Jake Watling was coming off a highly successful season with a victory in the Broome Championship in July and another first place finish at the North West Championships. Watling continued his run of form as he raced to victory in the senior open division and went on to claim the King of the Coast crown. Keenan Murphy was named King of the Quads. Kai Pratt also performed well for the Karratha visitors as he won the Kid of the Coast prize for the junior riders. All three champions won a $1000 prize for their dominance over the weekend. Hannah Lovett had been consistent all season with a previous victory in the North West Championships. She followed up this form to win the women’s division in convincing fashion. Karratha continued to show its dominance, with North West Championship senior lites winner Callum Jones adding another medal to his collection. Robbie Whiteman restored some pride for the hosts as he claimed Hedland’s first victory, competing in the veterans competition. Ant Niness followed suit for Hedland as he notched up a first place finish in the 85 small wheel race. Tex Prime from Broome notched up the town’s only victory in the junior 50cc race, while Aiden Stephens from Karratha won the 65cc competition. The next event at the Port Hedland Motorcycle Club is round four of the club points competition on October 4.