The 16-year-old motocross racer won one race and came second twice to become New Zealand’s No2 junior (12-17 year olds) at the New Zealand Cross Country Championships, in Nelson in February and Tainui over Easter
Fields of more than 30 race for hours over 10km-16km off-road circuits, and lapping slower riders becomes a major challenge as riders manage speeds well over 100kmh, technical water crossings and picking lines through rugged forrest.
"Mentally, riding isn’t too bad, you just stay 100% focused," Blake said.
"If you’re not, you could make a little mistake which leads to a big crash.
"For me it’s the middle of the race that’s the hardest because you’re buggered physically and thinking about how much more time there is.
"You’ve got to keep pushing, keep consistent, then the last couple laps you get a little boost — you’re nearly finished.
"I do it because it’s fun to ride, race and push yourself.
"The people are all really good and also love the sport. I love racing against my mates.
"It’s just a cherry on top that I’m actually not too bad at it."
Blake first raced as a 12-year-old, and 2024 is his last year as a junior.
He did suffer a big crash in his last race but was up and running the following weekend.
"It doesn’t worry me. He loves it, he’s intelligent and takes takes calculated risks, he works really really hard at it and he did incredibly well," mother Jenn Affleck said
"It’s just trophies, no prize money, so it’s a one-way street with expenses but we support him 100%."
Blake’s trophy shelf includes No2 NZ Junior, NZ No1 Team member, national champion for junior hard enduro, youngest New Zealander racing in adult enduro, and he leads the silver enduro class.
Father Stu Affleck also competes and came fourth in the New Zealand veterans.
