HORSHAM-based Supermoto racer Joshua Mclean has already tasted international success, but he is determined to “raise the bar yet again” this year.
The 32 year-old will be on hand to meet fans on both days of this year’s Mallee Machinery Field Days, raffling a motorbike to help fund his assault on the European tour.
Last year, Mclean took out the AMA Pro Supermoto title in the Pro Lites and Asphalt Only categories, while placing second in the AMA Pro Open series and Victorian Supermoto Championship.
He also won overseas in the open round of the Pro-lite category in Nevada.
Gearing up for his 2023 campaign, Mclean is hoping to travel further abroad as he prepares to take on the best of the best.
But he is seeking the support of fellow Australians to help turn his lifelong dream of international success into a reality.
“In 2023, we are looking to raise the bar yet again and embark in a full time racing career, taking our international Championship campaign further abroad into Europe,” McLean said, adding that he aimed to represent Australia for the first time in Italy at the Supermoto of Nations.
“We need the support of sponsors to help make this happen; sponsors that will embark on this journey with pride, align with our values, and create a vital partnership in helping me stand on the top step of an international and national podium.”
Describing the sport as a cross between street-style racing and motocross, Mclean is also hoping to lift the profile of the sport within Australia, and next month will host the state titles at Broadford on a purpose-built track which he designed.
“Supermoto bikes are essentially dirt bikes with slick tyres, upgraded suspension and brakes,” Mclean said.
Success hasn’t come easily for Mclean who got his first taste of motorcycling at the age of five.
“I had a BMX as a kid and was introduced to motorbikes after my best mate got one,” Mclean said.
“I started riding and competing, making my way up the ranks from club level to state, regional and national competitions.”
Mclean said there had been highs and lows throughout his career, with injuries jeopardising his potential.
“I broke my leg when I was 16,” Mclean said.
“I missed two years of racing at a time when I was transitioning from junior to senior competition. It was a massive blow.”
However, 2015 marked a massive turning point for the dedicated rider, and another huge transition from motocross to supermotor racing.
Making his international debut at the AMA Pro Series in America in 2016, Mclean hasn’t looked back, but his success hasn’t come without sacrifices.
“As with everything, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the racing community hard, which saw most championships come to a halt,” Mclean said.
“My results have come with hard work, persistence, a strong training program, and a mountain of sacrifices in leaving my family and children to race competitively overseas.”
