A Palmerston motocross rider has claimed victory in the opening round of the world championships in Qatar.

20 year old Courtney Duncan made a memorable debut at the women's championship, claiming the round with a rare double race victory.

She won the opening event by a convincing 27 seconds, and cruised her way to a second win shortly after.

The Qatar event was the only round of six that Duncan entered into, as a way to test the waters.

She beat the current world champion as well as previous title-holders.

Her outstanding results at the weekend enable her to mount a full campaign, continuing in Holland in a month's time.