The 18-year-old motocross enduro racer, who is a member of the University of Southern Queensland’s Elite Athlete Program, recently finished his first full season in the Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC).
Despite ending his campaign on a frustrating note, with a dusty air filter halting his charge in the final rounds at Omeo, Victoria, Mr Teed was pleased with his rides in the EJ class.
“It was a bit hard at the start of the year learning how to manage my time between studying and motocross,” the first year Spatial Science (Surveying) student said.
“However, I had some good results and I was pleased knowing I was able to compete against some of the top riders who are able to dedicate a lot more time to the sport.
“my aim at the start of the year was to get a top-five overall finish and a podium in at least one round.
“I managed to get the podium at Dungog (New South Wales) but finished sixth overall, mostly due to the bad luck I had down in Omeo.
“It was very annoying, but that’s racing.”
Mr Teed’s love of motocross started early and he began his foray into enduro racing in 2014.
Two years later he was crowned the Queensland Junior Enduro Rider of the Year.
Enduro racing is a test of endurance, skill and mental strength that pits the rider against the elements and the clock.
Races take place on off-road courses, racing cross-country through tight bush trails and fast open tracks, while dealing with obstacles like fallen trees, creeks and hills.
Mr Teed said competing in the AORC was a steep learning curve, having spent just as much time on the road than on the dirt this year.
“It was pretty full schedule of competitions. We drove to every round, including races in South Australia and Victoria,” he said.
With the AORC done and dusted, Mr Teed is back to the study books as he gears up for his final exams of the year.
“Motocross is a very demanding sport, but it has also helped me take my mind off uni and other things. Having that balance, I feel, is important,” he said.
“I’m determined to do well (at uni). It’s the same when I’m racing. I give everything I have to get the best possible result.”
USQ’s Elite Athlete Program supports students in balancing their academic and sporting commitments.
