Can't wait for the gate to drop in Faenza

We’re not to far out from GP1 and all the big hitters in the European MX world have done a few races for their prep already. It’s pretty much how I expected it - loads of guys are fast, fit and working hard. I think 2009 will be a great year of racing and like 08 have many winners.

As for me the pre season has gone ok. We have had a few problems but I’m happy to say I like the bike and the power is good. I have had a hole-shot at each of the three internationals I have done which is nice and I’m confident to get back to my hole-shoting ways of 2007 rather than my average starts of 08! This weekend coming I have a Italian championship race at Ponte Egola. I’m looking forward to it as it’s a cool track and all of the major factory GP teams going, it’s going to be a good race! I may do the next round as well….

As I write this I’m back in Belgium doing some sand riding. I haven’t been in Belgium since the last race of 08 as I’ve spent most of the Winter between South Africa, England and Italy. I was nervous about spending a Winter here but to be honest I have really enjoyed it! It’s been a harsh Winter they tell me but I’ve been lucky to miss a lot of the bad weather while jumping between the three countries. Next week I will stay down in Italy for some testing and a photo shoot for the 09 press and posters - it’s a very important day for the PR guys from Yamaha. Last year it took a week which nearly killed me, but thankfully they have limited to only one day this year…

On the social side of things I haven’t been up to much! I’m planning a indoor snow board excursion tomorrow night but for the rest it’s been pretty boring - sorry! A few weeks back, Ben Townley came to Italy and stayed for the week with Jamie and I in the motor home. I think he really enjoyed just hanging out and we sure did enjoy having him. He helped me a bit with my riding, and we worked on the bike a bit and it helped a lot. He’s a cool guy to have around because even though he’s gone through some tough times lately with injuries from the MX world, he is still 100% into the sport and really is a true fan. He watches all the lap times and the results from all over the world: From New Zealand to Europe, and I am sure when he gets back on the bike and is 100% healthy he will be right back at the top of the sport.

Well that’s it everyone, I don’t know about you but I’m really looking forward to this season! Not long to go now before the gate drops at Faenza.

Ride on.

J.C.