Coppins aims to finish MX Nats on a high

The veteran heads into the final round with a 14 point lead in the prestigious MX1 championship on board his Yamaha YZ 450F. The final round of the 2012 MX Nationals at Coolum this weekend will be the last time the Kiwi legend will compete locally, as he announced his retirement from full time racing at the seasons' end.

Coppins returned to Australia to ride for CDR Yamaha in 2011 after 15 years on the World GP scene highlighted with several GP victories and runner up in the world championship on two occasions.

Always the consummate professional, Coppins has prepared for the event as always and is looking forward to racing the always challenging Coolum Pines circuit. It is only fitting that in this event, Coppins is elbows deep in a championship chase and looking to end his career on a high note.

"Because I announced my decision a while ago, the emotion of it all has subsided and it has allowed me to simply do what I always do. My plan for this weekend is the same as any other weekend; race to the best of my ability and enjoy what I do," Coppins said.

"Regardless of the outcome, I have had a sensational career and something I'm proud of. As I mentioned in my retirement announcement, my only regret is that I didn't return to Australia sooner as I have had an amazing two years racing here and the CDR Yamaha team have been the perfect fit for me."

"I'm excited about the weekend and at the same time just as excited about what the future brings. Come Sunday night, it will be over and another new set of challenges will face me. But it would be nice to finish the job here with CDR Yamaha and give the team a championship they deserve."

While this weekend marks his end in full-time racing, Coppins still has committed to representing New Zealand at the Motocross of Nations and will also compete at selected events in Europe in the future.

For those going to the championship finale, Yamaha are also raffling a TTR50 - so get trackside for your chance to win!

All money raised will go to the Wishlist Health Foundation, a non-profit organisation that works to provide medical equipment, support and training for Sunshine Coast residents.

Josh Coppins Career Profile

2nd MX Nationals Australia MX1 - 2011

11th World GP MX1 - 2010

6th World GP MX1- 2009

5th World GP MX1 - 2008

3rd World GP MX1 - 2007

7th World GP MX1 - 2006

2nd World GP MX1 - 2005

3rd World GP MX1 - 2004

2nd World GP 250cc - 2003

Images: Shayne Rice