Cormac Buchanan rewrote a bit of history last weekend in Taupo, becoming the youngster rider to have won two national titles in the same season.
The 14-year-old successful defended the SuperSport 150 crown that he first won in 2020 before adding the SuperSport 300 title to his impressive CV moments later.
According to Motorcycling New Zealand’s Race Racing Commissioner Grant Ramage, that makes Buchanan a history maker.
“He would be the youngest rider in recent history who has won two titles in a year,” said Ramage.
Buchanan is poised to become New Zealand’s next big name on the international motorcycle scene. He now heads off to Europe for his debut season in the Red Bull Rookie’s Cup, the first step on the road to MotoGP.
His domination over the weekend at Taupo reflected most of his 2021 campaign.
The young Southlander secured pole position in both classes at every round, setting several lap records and won 16 races across the year. The only race Buchanan did not win, he finished second.
What is even more impressive is that Buchanan only started racing on circuits less than two years ago.
“I will remember this for the rest of my life; it’s a historic moment and I will treasure it,” Buchanan said.
“I wanted to add another two New Zealand titles to the Yamaha trophy cabinet. The support I’ve had from [Yamaha Motor New Zealand Motorsport Manager] Josh Coppins, our team manager Steve Lloyd and the whole YRDT crew has been unreal. This is the reward for all the effort which has gone in.
“It hasn’t even been two years since my first-ever road race, so it all feels surreal to be honest.
“Two consistent contributors from the start have been my coach Steve Bagshaw – he’s a huge factor in my success – along with my dad Stacey on the spanners as my pit chief.”
Buchanan’s first race in the Red Bull Rookies Cup will be at the Portimao circuit in Portugal on April 17.
The weekend also saw Mitch Rees crowned New Zealand Superbike champion after his nearest title rival and younger brother Damon experienced brake dramas.
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