Alice Springs ‘desert rats’ make journey to Australian Junior Motocross Championships in WA

With national motocross championships taking place in WA, one ‘desert rat’ from the Red Centre is hoping a win will net him special prize: a signed uniform from his hero.

Paul Short, Josh Taylor, and Logan Chapman-Nichol. Logan and his sister Bree are en route to Bunbury to take part in the 2024 Australian Junior Motocross Championship from September 24 to 28.

Red Centre “desert rats” are heading west for a national motocross competition – with one rider eyeing the greatest prize of all: a signed uniform from Finke’s King of the Desert – if he claims the top spot.

Alice Springs Motocross is sending a team of seven young riders to Bunbury to compete in the Australian Junior Motocross Championship from September 24 to 28.

Rider Logan Chapman-Nichol has a goal of nabbing a signed David Walsh uniform, if he wins the title.

Logan Chapman-Nichol and sister Bree on their bikes. Picture: Supplied

Mum Bronnie Chapman said the five-time Finke Desert race winner in the bikes category was one of Logan’s “big idols”.

“(Logan) did ask if he won the Aussies, we’d get him the same uniform as David Walsh, and get David to sign it,” she said.

Logan has previously won King of the Gulf at Port Pirie, and sits second in the Territory.

Also coming out with Logan from Alice Springs is his sister Bree, Josh Taylor, Paul Short, Declan Abbott, and Zane and Jack Bauwens.

Alice Springs Motocross organiser Sharon Bluss said the team fundraised for the tip – raising just over $8k in the end.

“We owe a big thanks to a lot of local businesses who have sponsored in money, parts and raffle prizes – making it possible to cover entry and pit fees, equaling roughly $380 per rider,” she said.

“The kids have developed great friendships and support through this sport no matter the age difference.

“The AJMX is going to be huge for these desert rats.”

Talking tactics, Logan said he had a simple strategy to nab to top spot: he’s going to “just send it”.

“(Just) keep the throttle on,” he said.