Cameron Dunker has made a blazing start to the 2026 Yamaha Aussie Flat Track Nationals (AFTN) by winning the opening two rounds in Maryborough (Qld) on July 25-26.
After finishing on the podium in seven of the eight races, which included two victories against red-hot opposition, Dunker (Yamaha) leads the Pro 450 class from Max Whale (KTM) and John Lytras (KTM), followed by Cooper Archibald (Ducati), Riley Nauta (KTM) and Daniel Wicks (KTM).
With the top riders separated by very little in terms of raw speed, results came down to the finest of margins in Maryborough – which made fast starts even more crucial.
Dunker, who was third in last year’s Pro 450 title, managed to put all the elements together on the most consistent basis, while Whale (two), Archibald (two), Lytras (one) and Nauta (one) were the other race winners – the latter after sensationally snatching Superpole on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Jed Fyffe (Yamaha) and Neiko Donovan (Husqvarna) rivalry in Junior Lites reignited in Maryborough, with Fyffe getting the upperhand, while Grace Hudson (KTM, Pro Women), Kru Tulloch (KTM, Junior 85), Hudson Raffin (KTM, 65 Trackers) and Glenn Smith (Honda, Over 35s All Powers) lead their respective classes.
For full results and standings, clock here.
“That was an intense and tight weekend of racing at Maryborough and what is really encouraging is that I feel like the overall speed and standard of racing has been lifted again this year,” said AFTN organiser, Dave Maddock.
“By the end of the weekend we have seen rivalries emerge, with Dunker versus Whale is going to be great to watch unfold.
“We tried something different with the format today by running the third race as back-to-back eight-lap sprints. It really put the pressure on the riders and to see Dunker claim maximum points really showed his race hardness.
“A special mention goes to Nauta. We all know him from Supersport 300 in the Australian Superbike Championship, but to come out and take Superpole in Pro 450 and a race win on his debut weekend against this level of competition takes a special talent.
“The two new classes for 2026, Over 35s and 65 Trackers, also hit the mark. These classes target opposite ends of the age spectrum that will be at the track anyway… it gives them an opportunity to be involved, compete and have fun.”
The AFTN now moves south to Victoria, with the double-header to be held in Wodonga on August 29-30.