Lightweight still dangerous in Mini showdown | Manawatu-Wanganui Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Manawatu-Wanganui

Underpowered but lighter and quicker, Hunter Stoneman-Boyle made a bold showing at his debut in the New Zealand Mini Motocross Championships in the South Island last weekend.

The Wanganui 11-year-old finished runner-up in the 7-11 trail bike class on his 80cc Honda, while the majority of his rivals rode more powerful 100cc and 110cc machines.

Father Mark Stoneman said he advised his son consistency in the five races over two days on the Westland Motorcycle Club track at Ikamatua West between Greymouth and Reefton would win the day.

"Hunter was riding an 80cc Honda against guys on 100cc and 110cc machines but his bike is lighter and he's quite light, so it allowed him to be a bit quicker around the track.

"He was only beaten by one point by Auckland rider Cruz Ware," Stoneman said.

"Hunter got four out of five hole shots, which is hitting the lead on the first bend and that was one of the keys to his performance.

"The others were forced to play catch-up each race. This was his first time at the nationals, although he's been riding since he was four.

"Hunter said he would have been happy finishing in the top five, but he was over the moon finishing second. I told him consistency was the key and it worked," Stoneman said.

Practice sessions at Red Bull X-Fighters champion Levi Sherwood's dad's property in nearby Sanson had also helped Stoneman-Boyle hone his skills for the nationals.

"Dave Sherwood [Levi's dad] was very helpful, giving Hunter a few tips which also helped at the nationals," Stoneman said.