Herald paperboy pedals to success

GISBORNE Herald newspaper delivery boy Chris Fox says his after-school job is helping him in his bid for the national under-16, 20-inch-class title.
“I’ve been doing my paper round for six years and now that I’m putting more into my racing, riding my bike each day helps with my fitness,” said Fox, who is racing in two national qualifying meets, in Rotorua and Tauranga.
At the North Island championships in Gisborne over Labour Weekend, Fox won the North Island u16 title — his first major win — and the prestigious Fishers Memorial Trophy for most points for a 16-year-old.
Now he is aiming at the national title next year.
“Having seen what Monique Smith and my cousins Nick and Abby have achieved, nationally and overseas, I’m putting more into the sport.”
As well as his daily paper round, Chris has stepped up his training programme.
“I’ve been going to the gym for the past six months, three days a week, two hours at a time, and going to the track as much as I can, staying there for three hours.
“On Sundays, it’s straight racing but on the other days I work on my skills, speed and jumping.”
Having won the pre-norths and the North Island title, and become the first Gisborne rider to win the Fishers Trophy, Fox now believes he can win the national title.
He has retained his place in the NZ junior development squad and will compete at junior elite class at the national champs.
“Next year is my last year in the junior development class, then it’s up to the 17-to-18-year class.
“That’s a big step up but one I’m looking forward to.”
Fox credits his recent success to his stamina as well as a boost in confidence.
“Whereas some riders tire towards the end of a race, I seem to get faster.
“But it’s also about skill, not just going fast — lifting the front wheel and pushing the bike through the jumps gives you more momentum.”
Fox said he received great support, not only from his parents, Jamie and Tania, but also from his uncle and aunt (Dave Fox and his wife Caroline).
“If Dad and Mum can’t make it to meets through work commitments, they’re always there to support me.”