CDR Yamaha celebrates Josh Coppins' 2012 outdoor title. Image: Simon Makker/Makkreative.com.

CDR Yamaha’s Josh Coppins admits that he felt a sense of relief when wrapping up the MX1 title in the Monster Energy MX Nationals, Australian Motocross Championship, at Coolum on Sunday.

The 35-year-old Kiwi will retire following next month’s Motocross of Nations in Belgium, concluding his 17-year professional career with Australia’s premier crown in 2012.

Coppins carried a 14-point advantage going into the final round over his nearest rival, but there was still plenty of work to be done to lock the championship up over the weekend.

His 2-1-2 race results at the final round secured second place on the day and an 11-point lead in the final standings after 10 rounds, across five states and 30 individual races.

“I have to say it was a great feeling as I rode up the final straight on the last lap,” Coppins said. “I tried to be as calm as I could all day, but inside I was really nervous as I had been in similar positions before only to have something go wrong.

“My first emotion was one of relief as I really wanted to win this championship, not only for myself but the CDR team. The two years I have been here have been nothing but a great experience for me and this championship is something that I’m proud to win with them.

“I also want to congratulate Todd Waters on his season. He has been a great competitor and I have enjoyed racing him this year and I’m sure he will have plenty of success in the coming years.

“But all credit must go to the CDR Yamaha team. Craig [Dack], Gary [Benn] and my mechanic Jason [Childs] have put in huge hours over the past 12 months and this is as much about them as it is me.”

Coppins will now travel to Europe ahead of the MXoN event at Lommel on 30 September.