Hometown legend Craig Anderson hopes a new batch of local stars create lifelong memories when the 2023 FOX Australian Supercross Championship rolls into Newcastle later this year.
Following the success of the event 12 months ago, with almost 20,000 fans in attendance, the extravaganza returns to McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 11 November.
The latest edition will also feature a new 85cc format, as well as an expanded spectator experience, to cater for the sport’s growing popularity in the Hunter.
And, the man known as “Ando” is revved up to see it back in his city.
In 1998, he claimed the inaugural race at the venue, when it was called Marathon Stadium.
“I have fond recollections of that night back then,” Anderson said.
“We’d always raced at either the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle Motordrome or Newcastle Speedway.
“So, it was such a really big thing to have it at the stadium with a massive crowd.
“I guess it was just great timing… I think they were putting new grass down and it worked for motocross.
“To win the first race here was brilliant, especially at home.
“But, it really opened the doors for the venue to stage other things, like supercross.
“It’s awesome for the Newcastle community… and a great chance for a local youngster to steal the show.”
Anderson is one of Australia’s most decorated motocross and supercross racers.
Throughout his 26-year career in the 1990-2010 era, he captured 13 Australian titles and took out major races in Europe and the United States.
He also created history, winning the Australian Supercross Masters and National SX Championship double on three occasions – 1998, 2001 and 2002; equalling the late Peter Melton’s record.
In 1999, Anderson moved to Europe, snaring the International Supercross in Exeter (UK) and the King of Dortmund (Germany), achieving back-to-back victories at both these events in 2000.
Success continued overseas and back in Australia.
In 2003, he was selected to represent his country in the World Championship of Motocross in the US alongside Michael Byrne and his cousin, multiple AMA and FIM World Champion Chad Reed.
Australia prevailed, resulting in one of Anderson’s proudest achievements.
And, although his love – and talent – for the sport is obvious, he sheepishly admitted he missed last year’s Australian Supercross Championship at McDonald Jones Stadium.
“Yeah, I wasn’t here, I was in Queensland at the time,” Anderson said.
“However, I watched it on TV if that’s any consolation,” he added with a laugh.
“But, it was sensational to have it in Newcastle again.
“I think Novocastrians, across the board from any sport, we always seem to be into it.
“Supercross brings out massive crowds and it’s exciting.
“It’s also different.
“To return here again this year is great for the region, great for Supercross and great for the kids who want to be Supercross stars.
“They get to come and ride [at McDonald Jones Stadium] and watch the guys they look up to, too.”
Anderson said the city’s enviable venue provided the perfect viewing experience as well.
“It’s like an amphitheatre these days,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“In 1998, I think there was one grandstand on the side; and it just had the hills all around it.
“So, everyone was watching it from a distance.
“Now, you’ve got stands everywhere and you’re looking down on it, so the atmosphere will be ideal at McDonald Jones Stadium.
“Supercross continuously creates good action anyway.
“It’s the best sport in the world really… it’s exciting, it’s got close racing and, sometimes, it’s got crashes.
“There’s always something going on.
“Locals and visitors would have witnessed that last year.
“As a spectator, you don’t want to see anyone get hurt, but you like to see crashes, too.
“That’s what makes it exciting.
“So, my recommendation to people?
“Get in and buy your tickets early, because I believe it’s going to be sold out.”
For further details about the Australian Supercross Championship, go to www.australiansupercross.com.au
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