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Duncan Leads New Zealand Motocross Team to Oceania Championships

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 18:09 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locales: NEW ZEALAND, AUSTRALIA

Coolaroo, Victoria - February 4th, 2026 - Courtney Duncan, the globally recognized motocross superstar, will lead a formidable New Zealand team into the Oceania Women's Motocross Championships next month in Coolaroo, Victoria, Australia. Alongside Duncan will be rising talent Maddix Armstrong and returning competitor Taylah McCamish, forming a trio poised to challenge Australia's dominance and further cement New Zealand's reputation as a motocross powerhouse.

The championships, scheduled for March 8th and 9th, represent a key event on the Oceania motocross calendar. New Zealand has enjoyed considerable success in recent years, and this year's team is aiming to build on that legacy. However, expectations are high with the Australian contingent competing on home soil and eager to reclaim the title.

Courtney Duncan's selection as captain is no surprise. Her pedigree is unparalleled, having secured a remarkable three consecutive FIM Women's Motocross World Championships (2019, 2020, and 2021). This established her as a leading figure in the sport and a role model for aspiring female motocross athletes worldwide. While her World Championship streak was broken in 2022 due to injury, Duncan has remained a consistent front-runner in international competition, demonstrating resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She is widely regarded for her aggressive riding style, technical skill, and unwavering determination. Her experience will be crucial in guiding the younger members of the team and setting the competitive tone.

"It's awesome to be leading the team and I'm really excited about what we can achieve," Duncan stated in a recent interview. "Maddix and Taylah are both incredible riders, and I know they'll be pushing hard for the win." This sentiment underscores Duncan's commitment to team success, extending beyond personal accolades.

Maddix Armstrong, at just 15 years old, represents the future of New Zealand motocross. This will be his debut appearance at the Oceania Championships, marking a significant step in his burgeoning career. Armstrong has been making waves in the domestic junior scene, consistently demonstrating speed and control beyond his years. His inclusion in the team highlights Motorcycling New Zealand's investment in developing young talent and providing opportunities for the next generation. The pressure of competing at an international level will be a learning experience for Armstrong, and the guidance of Duncan will be particularly valuable.

Taylah McCamish's return to the team adds a layer of experience and depth. After a year away from competition, McCamish is eager to make her mark once more. Her absence was due to personal commitments, but she has been diligently preparing for her comeback, focusing on both physical conditioning and refining her technique. McCamish brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in Oceania competition, making her a vital asset to the team. Duncan's acknowledgement of McCamish's experience underlines her importance to the squad's strategy.

Dave Rossiter, Motorcycling New Zealand's motocross commissioner, expressed his confidence in the team's preparation. "We've got a really strong team this year, and I'm confident they'll do well," he said. Rossiter further elaborated that the team underwent a rigorous training camp in New Zealand, focusing on track conditioning, race strategy, and team cohesion. The team's mechanics have also been working tirelessly to ensure the motorcycles are in peak performance condition.

The Coolaroo track in Victoria is known for its challenging layout and demanding terrain. It will test the riders' skills and endurance, requiring a combination of speed, agility, and technical prowess. The Australian team is expected to present a formidable challenge, with several experienced riders vying for the top spot. Other nations, including potentially teams from Fiji and New Caledonia, are also expected to participate, adding to the competitive intensity.

Beyond the competition itself, the Oceania Championships serve as a crucial platform for promoting motocross in the region and fostering international camaraderie. The event is expected to attract a large crowd of spectators, as well as significant media coverage, further raising the profile of the sport. New Zealand's participation is not just about winning; it's about showcasing the talent and passion of its riders and inspiring the next generation of motocross enthusiasts.

The team's performance in Australia will undoubtedly have implications for their future participation in international events, including the FIM Women's Motocross World Championships. A strong showing at the Oceania Championships will boost their confidence and solidify their position as contenders on the global stage.