    |
 |
|
|
|
Motocross ace Josh Coppins has cruised to a comfortable eighth qualifying spot for tomorrow’s Swiss 250 Grand Prix with a flawless ride on his Suzuki RM250.
While a gaggle of the world’s top riders swapped fastest time around the frighteningly fast Roggenburg hillside circuit south-east of Basle, Coppins kept his nose clean and ran within a second of the top pace at 1min 55sec.
“That’s plenty quick enough around here,” said the Kiwi- born star who fell victim to a terrifying crash here last year.
“We’re flat out in fifth on those downhills and I learned last year it’s no place to take chances in qualifying.
“I’m real happy with that time, I know I can do it every lap of the race and that’s what counts,” added 24-year-old Coppins.
Fastest time was set by the Italian Coppins needs to overhaul to grab third overall in the championship, Claudio Federici.
Coppins’ high-flying teammate Mickael Pichon (France), who is just a ride or two away from clinching the title for the Corona Suzuki outfit, was back in fifth qualifying spot.
An unknown Swiss rider startled everyone by slotting into qualifying one place ahead of expat Kiwi Coppins. And just as surprising, one place behind was another New Zealand face with Darryl Atkins having his best ride of the year.
However such is the pace up to this 10th round of the 14-event championship, that line-up is certain to change tomorrow.
“I’ll be there,” quipped Motueka-born Coppins.
“The bike is running real well now and it’s just a matter of getting a good start.”
After ill-fortune dogged his early season, Coppins is hunting maximum points to hit his target of a top-three finish in the championship.
The Swiss Grand Prix is raced Sunday afternoon local time. The championship continues with the German Grand Prix next weekend and concludes next month.
World 250 Championship points after nine events: Mickael Pichon (France) Suzuki 215, Gordon Crockard (Ireland) Honda 132, Claudio Federici (Italy) Yamaha 99, Coppins 94, Chad Reed (Australia) Kawasaki 93, Pit Beirer (Germany) Yamaha 92, Fred Bolley (France) Honda 85.
