Norton breaks Hattah hoodoo with outright win

LORNE desert racer Callum Norton is elated following his outright win at the Hattah Desert Race in regional Victoria at the weekend.

Norton spoke exclusively with the Surf Coast Times about his exemplary run during the 152km race, completing the four-lap circuit in four hours and one minute on Sunday.

“I’m on cloud nine, I started racing this event at 12 as a junior and transitioned to senior in 2017, since then I’ve dreamed about winning it and this year it finally happened,” Norton said.

“I’ve been in a position to win this event a couple times but had mechanical problems, but to finish it off this year is just awesome.”

Norton finished ahead of Angus Riordan (4:05:53) and Jack Simpson (4:03:51) on the podium, but it was not all smooth sailing for the 23-year-old.

He was required to make a pit stop shortly after completing the third lap to replace a damaged Steg Peg; a crucial motorbike piece that takes the pressure off a rider’s legs and knees.

It set Norton back to sixth position in the race, with one lap remaining, but he persevered to record his first career win at the race.

Norton will take the week to recover from his win before getting back into training.

He will next make the trip north to Queensland for this year’s Don River Dash, to be held in Bowen from September 6 to September 8.

Norton also has the option of heading overseas to take part in the Baja 1000 being held in Mexico during mid-November but will weigh up his options before deciding.

“There’s a couple events that are on the horizon, but I’ll enjoy this win and continue to train as usual for now,” he said.

Norton also gave a shoutout to his family, his mechanic Scott Watts and team manager Jason Stewart.