Media Release - 27 May

Motorex KTM Pro Junior Brenden Harrison hangs up his riding boots

Five time Australian Junior Motocross Champion, Brenden Harrison has decided to hang up his riding boots to focus on other ventures in life. Harrison will now concentrate on his motorcycle mechanic apprenticeship and spending more time with family and friends, around his hometown of Beenleigh, Queensland.

Fifteen year old Harrison has been riding with Motorex KTM Junior Racing Team since 1996. His career highlights saw him dominate in the 50cc, 65cc, 85cc and 125cc junior ranks. Harrison was also responsible for the development of KTM Sportmotorcycles’ 85cc big and small wheel motorcycle range.

During his nine years of racing with Motorex KTM, Harrison has achieved a number of victories as a junior rider. He secured his first Australian Motocross Championship at the age of 8 years old and from then he continued to dominate winning consecutive motocross and supercross titles, on both a national and state level.

The decision was not an overnight thought for Harrison, who says the he has been thinking about a career change for some time.

“When you ride for nine years straight in competition it can start to take its toll on your body and your enthusiasm, said Harrison.

“I was always going out wanting to put my best into racing, as a way of thanks for those who were putting so much effort into my career.

“My family and Motorex KTM have been behind me since day one and are still behind me now with my decision to retire from racing.

“I will still be around the sport as I enjoy everything about the events, but unless my drive comes back to race, I’ll enjoy it from the stands,” he added.

KTM Sportmotorcycles’, General Manager, Jeff Leisk shows great respect in Harrison for making a decision that will make him happy, rather than fulfilling a career that he no longer desired.

“KTM is proud of the partnership we have developed with Brenden and he will always be a part of our team.

“Brenden has put in a lot of effort for KTM and so has his father Greg, who worked as his mechanic traveling around the country for races.

“KTM wish Brenden the very best in his future endeavours and look forward to maintaining our great relationship with the Harrison family, he added.

A popular rider amongst the dirt bike circle, Harrison will be missed from the race track but fans should not rule out a possible return, as Harrison leaves the sport with a never say never attitude.