Woodley for 2011 HBBB
As one of the finest riders to come out of New Zealand, Woodley is well remembered for his sensational performances in the 1970s on board a string of Suzuki RG500s
New Zealander John Woodley will be back on track for the 2011 Honda Broadford Bike Bonanza (HBBB) in Broadford (Vic) this Easter (April 22-24).
Woodley won the Senior Grand Prix at Bathurst in 1976-1977 and 1979, but it was his astonishing performance in the 1979 Unlimited GP that really wowed the thousands of fans at the mountain circuit.
Despite giving away 50 percent capacity, Woodley hounded Graeme Crosby’s 750 Kawasaki and Ron Boulden’s 750 Yamaha for the entire 20-lap race, finishing third -- just metres behind the two 750s and sharing a new outright lap record.
As well as his numerous successes in Australia and New Zealand, Woodley enjoyed a highly successful international career, particularly in Malaysia where he rode factory-supplied Suzukis for the Malaysian importer.
He also competed in the 1978 Isle of Man TT, finishing ninth in the Senior TT on his debut at the world’s most difficult and dangerous circuit.
After a nearly 30-year break from racing, Woodley recently made a comeback, riding a MV Agusta 1000 in the recent New Zealand BEARS Series, finishing fourth overall against current top riders.
With his appetite now whetted, the New Zealander will be at Broadford with the actual RG500 on which he won the Senior GP at Bathurst in 1979.
It will be a great chance for fans to see his ultra-smooth riding style once again and to remember his halcyon days when he took on and defeated the best riders in Australia.
All the HBBB action can be found by visiting MA.org.au/hbbb.
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