Image: AUS-X Open.

It’s been revealed the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge (KJSC) will make its highly-anticipated debut in New Zealand at the 2018 Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland next month.

Each successful KJSC applicant will be treated to a full factory VIP experience, including a KTM 50 SX fitted with KTM PowerParts by factory technicians to ride during the event.

KTM’s gift pack provided to each young rider will feature a full set of riding gear to keep, plus trophies will be awarded to podium finishers in the 1-2-3 positions.

Extensive off-track activities planned will include a guided tour of the KTM Motocross Racing Team pit area, a special rider signing where kids can meet their KTM heroes including New Zealand’s very own world champion Ben Townley.

Following a dedicated track walk to learn the ins and outs of riding supercross, the KJSC will feature two practice sessions and an excitement-packed exhibition race during the S-X Open Auckland program. It will be an experience of a lifetime for each of the youthful riders taking part ahead of what’s expected to be a capacity crowd of over 20,000.

“Just two weeks following its second AUS-X Open Sydney appearance alongside the S-X Open International Supercross FIM Oceania Championship series opener, there will be a total of 10 aspiring supercross stars aged between seven and eight years old who will take to the track on supplied KTM 50 SX machinery at round two,” explained event co-founder Adam Bailey.

“Taking part in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge is a great opportunity for the riders in front of 20,000-plus people and it will be an experience they will never forget, that’s for sure. As far as the event goes, it’s one of the most popular aspects of entertainment on the schedule, so to have the KJSC as part of the event is a real win-win.

“Following the response in Sydney, it was only natural to include the KJSC in Auckland and it truly is an awesome initiative that KTM have come up with around the world. To have these kids become factory riders for the day, be mentored by their heroes and to ride in front of so many people, this is their way to experience supercross at its absolute best!”

The S-X Open Auckland is scheduled for 24 November at Mount Smart Stadium. For more information on the KJSC, visit www.ridektm.com.au/2018-kjsc-auckland.