The Sunbeam MCC is delighted to announce that Grass Track/Long Track Rider James Shanes has been adjudged the winner of The Pinhard Trophy for 2015.
This is one of the UK’s most prestigious awards, the giant 3-gallon cup having been presented since 1950 to the best Under-21 year old sporting motorcyclist competing under ACU or SACU jurisdiction.
2015 has been a fantastic year for James – Two British titles, an FIM Gold Medal as part of the team that brought the Don Godden Trophy back to the UK for the first time, an FIME Silver Medal plus a host of top results on the domestic scene. The Judges were particularly impressed by James commitment at grass-roots level. Setting up and dismantling tracks for racing and attending promotional events.
James has been well placed in the Pinhard standings for the last three years but getting better each year. Yet another success for consistency and improvement. On hearing of his success James said “I am delighted to have won the Pinhard Trophy. I have had the most amazing year, and this really is the icing on the cake – thank you Sunbeam MCC”
James faced stiff competition and voting was extremely close. Runner-up was another Grasstracker Luke Harris. Presentation of the Trophy will be at the ACU Awards Dinner on 24th January.
Previous winners are a list of motorcycling greats over the last 60 years who have excelled in all spheres of the sport including Mike Hailwood, Jeff Smith, Bill Martin, Roy Peplow, Dan Shorey, Scott Ellis, Alexz Wigg and a host of others who have gone on to be national and international household names. Last year’s winner was Long Tracker Zach Wajtknecht.
Sunbeam MCC awards the trophy in memory of Frederick William Pinhard who died in 1948 whilst serving as Secretary of the Club.
Judges were editors of leading motorcycle periodicals, General Secretary of the ACU and 3 officials appointed by Sunbeam MCC.
Action Photo by HMX Images