Two weeks on from the action at Shark Park, we’re still hearing about the smiles, nerves and pure excitement that came with the Yamaha BLU CRU YZ65 Cup — one of the highlights of the AUSX round in Sydney.
For the 18 young riders selected, the night was more than just another race. It was a rare chance to experience what it’s like to be a pro — complete with factory support, FOX Racing gear with their names printed on the back, and the buzz of performing in front of a packed stadium.
Since its inception in 2018, the YZ65 Cup has built a reputation as one of Yamaha’s most successful grassroots programs. It’s introduced hundreds of Aussie groms to stadium racing, with many graduates now climbing through junior and senior ranks across the country.
At Shark Park, the BLU CRU treatment was on full display. The riders set up in the heart of the paddock, collected their custom gear kits, and joined Yamaha ambassadors Jess Gardiner, Jeremy Carpentier and Jades Oates for a detailed track walk and coaching session. Once practice got underway, the nerves kicked in — those supercross jumps always look bigger from ground level — but every rider rose to the occasion.
The Yamaha crew made sure the experience extended beyond the track, too. A Q&A session with the Monster Energy CDR Yamaha, Yamalube Yamaha and WBR Yamaha teams gave the kids an inside look at life in the pro ranks. There were laughs, advice, plenty of autographs — and a few classic Phil Nicoletti moments for good measure. Each rider even received a signed front number plate as a memento from the day.
When race time came, the little YZs ripped off the line to the roar of the crowd, each rider throwing everything they had at the few short laps under lights. The podium ceremony — presented by two-time AMA WMX champion Lachlan Turner — capped off a night none of them will forget.
“It’s been an amazing day and one we hope the riders and families never forget,” said Yamaha’s Jake Belford. “Our aim with BLU CRU is to create a community and an experience that you can’t get anywhere else, and the YZ65 Cup continues to deliver that every time we run it.”
Next stop for the YZ65 Cup is Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on November 22, where another crew of young riders will get their shot under the big lights — and another round of memories will be made.
For more info on Yamaha BLU CRU ‘Click Here’ and to find out more about AUSX ‘Click Here’.
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