As expressions of interest (EOIs) open for the 2025 SA Junior Cup Series and the next wave of South Australian road racing talents gear up to make their mark. Two of our program alumni, Rikki Henry and Archie Schmidt, have taken their skills and Junior Cup experience to the international stage, competing against world-class talent in the 2024 Asia Talent Cup. We had the chance to catch up with both riders to hear their thoughts on this exciting opportunity and their progression from the SA Junior Cup.
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Rikki Henry
Thanks for catching up with us Rikki & well done on the massive year in the SA Junior Cup. Firstly, can you give us a bit of an insight into the selection process you went through at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia to join the Asia Talent Cup?
“The process began with sign-on day, where we received our bib numbers. The next day, we were divided into groups, and each rider was randomly assigned a bike—not one we chose ourselves. We then participated in several 15-minute sessions.
After these sessions, the selection panel reviewed our performance and made the final decision on who would be chosen for the Asia Talent Cup.”
What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned from competing against other talented riders across Asia?
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is how much more track time and experience riders in Asia often have compared to us in Australia. In many countries, there’s more access to racing opportunities, which can be a disadvantage for us. However, this challenge has made me a quicker learner, helping me improve my skills faster and adapt to different racing environments.”
Out of all the circuits on the Asia Talent Cup calendar, do you have a favourite, and why?
“My favourite track would have to be Motegi. The circuit itself is just beautiful, with a really nice flow that suits my riding style. The layout was really enjoyable, and the atmosphere there was fantastic, making it one of the most memorable experiences of the season.”
What are some of the key skills you developed in the SA Junior Cup that helped you compete in the Asia Talent Cup?
“The most valuable skill I developed in the SA Junior Cup was my racecraft. Understanding how to manage races, deal with pressure, and make smart decisions on the track has been crucial in my progression to the Asia Talent Cup. It really helped me navigate the intensity of international competition.”
What’s next for your racing career? We saw you recently competed for the first time in Round 7 of the ASBK SuperSport 300 class at the Bend.
“At the moment, I’m focused on continuing in the Asia Talent Cup, hoping to have another season in the series. If that doesn’t work out, I’m still figuring out what’s next, but racing in the ASBK SuperSport 300 class was a great experience, and I’m looking forward to more opportunities in that direction as well.”
Do you have any advice for young riders who dream of racing overseas and competing against international talent?
“My advice is to stay persistent and believe in yourself. Take every opportunity that comes your way and always push yourself to improve. The journey may be tough, but every step you take now will help make things easier in the future. Keep working hard, stay focused, and don’t let any setbacks discourage you.”
Archie Schmidt
Thanks for catching up with us Archie & congratulations on the massive year in the SA Junior Cup. Can you give us a bit of an insight into the selection process you went through at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia to join the Asia Talent Cup?
“My journey started travelling to Malaysia in Sepang with my Dad a few days before the selection event.
I had never seen the track before so we went to have a look, I had a ride around it on a go-kart to familiarise myself with the track.
The selection event brought together 89 riders from 20 different countries, creating a truly competitive atmosphere.
On the event day, the weather was extremely hot and humid, so I had to adapt to the challenging conditions quickly.
We kicked off with a practice session, and I managed to make it through the first round while still getting to grips with the track. At this stage, about 50% of the riders were cut from the competition.
After riding again, I waited for the final decision.
Hearing my name called out as a selected rider was a memory I’ll never forget.”
What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned from competing against other talented riders across Asia?
“It’s been a lot of hard work this year, both on and off the track. I’ve trained intensely and made significant improvements in both my riding and mindset. Seeing my hard work pay off as my results improved throughout the season has been incredibly motivating.
Off the track, I’ve focused on building strength and endurance. I’ve worked with a sports dietitian to gain weight, incorporated weight training twice a week, and regularly run and cycle.
On the track, I’ve been training consistently on the 190 Ohvale and competing in the MiniGP Series. I also attended a training camp in Spain and trained on the Honda NSF at Motegi.
I try to ride as much as possible. We’ve got a track out the back where I ride my 85, and Mum and Dad take me to as many training and coaching days as they can, giving me more opportunities to ride the Honda NSF.”
Out of all the circuits on the Asia Talent Cup calendar, do you have a favourite, and why?
“My favourite tracks are Buriram in Thailand and Motegi in Japan.
Thailand is a favourite because I got my very first international podium, I finished 2nd place in the second race, another experience I will remember forever.
I like Japan because it’s a nice flowy and fast track. I enjoy going to Japan, the people are incredibly kind and I get along with the Japanese riders really well.”
What are some of the key skills you developed in the SA Junior Cup that helped you compete in the Asia Talent Cup?
“Riding in the SA Junior Cup was my first experience with road racing, where I had to learn all the basics. Kym Bolto, Ty Lynch, and Will Struggnel dedicated a lot of time to helping me develop those skills.
In my first season, I focused on catching up and adapting to the faster, more experienced riders, which I believe has been a huge benefit this year. I know it takes time, but I’m confident that with hard work, I can close the gap and become a front-runner. It’s all about taking it step by step.”
What’s next for your racing career? We saw you both recently competed for the first time in Round 7 of the ASBK SuperSport 300 class at the Bend.
“Next year I hope to be asked back for another season in the ATC, we haven’t been told yet.
I have an opportunity to race in Japan, so hopefully I’ll be able to do at least four rounds over there.
I had a really good time competing at the ASBK in the Supersport 300 class. The skills I have learnt this year really helped me have a successful weekend. Who knows, maybe next year I might give a 600 a go, if Mum lets me!”
Do you have any advice for young riders who dream of racing overseas and competing against international talent?
“Just to work hard and believe in yourself. Be resilient because there are so many hard days, but when you finally crack a podium or get a really fast lap time it makes it all worth it.”
Thank guys for taking the time to chat with us! We’re sure everyone at home joins us in wishing you guys the very best for what lies ahead.
If you would like to follow in Rikki & Archie’s footsteps, expressions of interest are now open for the 2025 SA Junior Cup. For more information on the series, click here.