James Jacobs' entry into the Australian Superbike Championship has been nothing short of a wild ride.
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In his third year of competing in the national championship, the 15-year-old from Eagleton is only now getting a taste for the entire competition after only two rounds were run in the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to COVID-19.
"I'm looking forward to completing the full season," James said. "Each track is so different. I am looking forward to getting to the tracks we haven't be able to get to the past couple of years. It will be a better season than just a few rounds."
James, also known as Freddy, rides a Kawasaki Ninja 400 in the national championship's Supersport 300 class.
After two rounds, out of eight, James is sitting second in on the championship ladder from 24 competitors. During each rounds riders complete three practice sessions, two qualifiers and three races.
The first two rounds have been James's best ever. At Phillip Island he won his first race, with a second and 14th placing seeing him finish the weekend second overall.
The next round was at Queensland Raceway where James won the first race of the weekend and placed sixth in the other races, seeing him finish third.
The next round will be held this weekend, April 22-24, at Wakefield Park Raceway in Goulburn.
"I'm quite confident going into this round that I'll get a good result," James said. "This is the track I've done the most laps at. It's quite a technical track. There won't be as many people up the front... there will possibly be a breakaway. I think I'll be up the front."
Following in the footsteps of his motorsport-loving dad, James started riding motorbikes when he was 4 year old.
The Year 10 Hunter River High School student transitioned from recreational riding to flat track racing when he was 5. He has been competitively racing ever since, supported by his parents Doug and Tracy plus twin sister Jessica.
In 2018 James transitioned into road racing. He rode with North Coast Road Racers and St George Motorcycle Club and won three state titles.
In his pursuit to ride professionally, James joined the Australian Superbike Championship in 2020 where he finished 19th.
Last season he finished the shortened season 13th overall.
James is seeking sponsorship to continue to be able to continue to ride professionally. Get in touch via email: jacobstdjj@outlook.com.
- EARLIER STORY: Season stalled but high hopes for when it gets back on track
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
