Max revs his way to the top

2024 has been a big year for 18-year-old Max Midwinter.

The Naracoorte local has had a break out season in off road dirt bike racing with the highlight being claiming the South Australian Championship.

Third place in the Victorian Championship, fifth place in the Hattah Desert Race in the Under 19 class, which was 40th overall, and 10th place in the 450cc Class at the Australian Off-Road Championship round out what has been a hugely successful year for the young rider.

In his first year out of school, he has embarked on a building apprenticeship at Paul Schroder Building, Max certainly found things more challenging but it has definitely brought out the best in him.

“I have found it more challenging this year to fit in training and travelling to events with my work commitments,” Max said.

But he hung tough with the championship, which was six rounds over three weekends during the year, coming down to the last event at Acusa Park, Harrogate.

“I had to make sure I finished the event in the top three to achieve this championship,” Max said.

“This season has been a dream come true. I owe a huge thanks to my sponsors for their support. Their contributions have kept me on the track and motivated me to push my limits. My father Mark Midwinter has maintained my bikes and transported me to events. He has always enjoyed bikes and passed his passion to me.”

Given the family heritage, it is not surprising that Max has been on a bike since he was four years old and racing since he was six.

“My father was involved in motorbikes so grew up with them around,” he said.

That shared love means they don’t see training and working on the bike as hard work and make no mistake, Max’s 2024 success has been due to plenty of hard work.

“I make sure I ride at least once throughout the week and once on weekends and If not competing, I enjoy just fun riding with mates,” he said.

The 2024 season was marked not only by individual achievements but also by friendship among racers. The off-road dirt bike community continues to thrive, fostering friendships and rivalries that make each race even more exhilarating.

As Max looks ahead to the 2025 season, there’s excitement for what’s to come.

“I have big goals for next year, and I’m determined to build on this year’s success,” he said.

“To win the SAORC for 2024 has been a dream of mine for years so now I am fired up for 2025.

“I would like to take out the Victorian Off Road Series and be recognised in the top five for Australia. If I could end in the top 20 for Hattah Desert Race that would be amazing.

“I would also like to attend an Off Road Event overseas as a spectator or competitor and the Finke Desert Race has always been on my bucket list too.”

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