The quiet period is over as we head to Portimao for the first test of the 2010 campaign. You know what’s great? I’ve stayed put so it’s just like an extension of the 2009 season! I’m flying to Stansted to meet up with the team and all I’ve got is my luggage; all my racing kit stayed in the workshop over the winter as there was no need to move it! This changing teams lark is overrated in my book, all it does is create hassle. I’m really looking forward to getting on my CBR again, last time I rode it was back in October at the same circuit when I dominated the race so I’m looking forward to picking up where I left off.
My CRF250 motocross bike arrived at the weekend thanks to Honda. It’s still sat in the garage in pristine condition but I can’t see that lasting long, sorry Honda! We have an mx weekend planned for the end of January when I return from this test. My mate Tubman who races mx is talking about getting someone to gather some video footage of us riding but I’m not sure if that’s such a good idea as I’m rusty as hell! I knocked motocross on the head in the middle of last season and haven’t ridden since.
I guess I ought to mention the fact that I won the accolade of Irish Motorcyclist of the Year last week. I really was delighted to pick up the award, not so much for myself but for the sponsors that backed me through two tough years in GPs and are still supporting me. The past few years I’ve sat with them throughout the entire awards ceremony only getting up to go to the bathroom so it made a nice change for them to see me headed towards the stage this year to pick up my awards instead!
As for the season ahead I’ve never been more confident. Same bike, same team, same tracks. I only have one goal and that is to lift the World Supersport crown come season’s end. This is my year! Joan Lascorz and Kenan Sofuoglu won’t make life easy for me though. It’s a three horse race this one, just look at the latter half of last season and you’ll see what I mean.
I’ll keep you all posted during the test through my ‘Twitter’ updates. If you aren’t already following, get involved!
Eugene
