It's a word that seems glorified, idolized, especially in the sports bike scene. I got into riding at what felt like the slightly later age of 21. Now, at 29, I've finally completed my first race meeting: Round 3 of the Victoria Motorcycle Racing Club series at Manfeild Park.
I've been around the track enough times thanks to the MotoTT track days. An R3 first, an '04 fireblade next (a bit of a gap between those) a 390 duke and finally with the help from one of my close mates @DB_racingnz a mighty K6 GSXR600 which is my current race bike.
Nerves are usually a big thing for me. But the Leaky Spoon Racing Team made the whole day feel relaxed. You realize that everyone is there because they're just as nuts about bikes as you are!
With the rider briefing done and qualifying behind me, it was finally time to go out for the first race albeit with a fluoro vest on to warn the fast guys there's a newbie out there.
Finally, line up, take my grid position right at the back. Heart hammering but oddly feeling calm waiting for the lights to come on and "START DELAYED" pops up -someone isn't in the right position so around we go to form up again.
Take two- this time all the riders found their mark, the lights go on, hold then go out. Tell you what, forty bikes charging into Turn 1 is absolute chaos. I couldn't tell you what happened around me. All I remember was looking for the gap in front of me and the lovely paint job of the CBR that's rider fluffed it's launch. I felt like I was practically leaning on him. Sorry Dave!
Then something funny happened it started to feel like a group 1 track day. Tag on to the rider in front, "he's faster" try what he does "that didn't work" -next time it does "hes really early on the brakes there" dive him on the next lap and that's the first overtake I made while racing! Now to chase the next rider who's nearly half the straight ahead of me...
I'm hooked. I didn't win, didn't suddenly have my elbow on the ground or set my new personal best. But I went RACING.
Credit Author: Chris, TSS Parts & Accessories