HIGH FIVES - Luke Mellows
June 20, 2008
Luke Mellows decided enough is enough and up rooted to Belgium to further his motocross career, did it work out or was it all a dream?
MOTO: After competing in the EA Dirt Bike Store KTM Team in the 2005 season, you decided to move abroad to further your racing career. Can you explain where you went and how you found it compared to the racing back here in the UK?
“I chose to leave England because it was becoming increasingly financially difficult. I made the decision after visiting Belgium on various training weekends, and with a little support from my sponsors back in the UK I made the switch. I managed to put myself in the heart of mx- Belgium (Lommel). I was very fortunate to be surrounded by many Grand Prix riders which included Tyla Rattray, Marcus Schiffer and Gareth Swanepoel. They not only became good friends but taught me strength of character, both physically and mentally on and off the bike.”
MOTO: After being a MX2 rider for several years, this year sees you step up to the MX1 Class on a 450KTM. Can you explain your reasons behind this and how you have found the transitions?
“At the end of my 2007 season in Germany, I competed alongside my MX2 championship in some of the open class events for my team (Janssen Suzuki). Although the bike was much stronger and heavier to cope with for 40 minutes, I adapted my style quickly and it helped me pace myself when riding back in the 250f machine. I then decided that I shall ride a 450 machine in the off season back in England, and that I will compete on it for this current season.”
MOTO: Last year saw you compete in the World Motocross Grand Prix of Donington Park. Can you tell us how it all came about, and how you found the weekend as a whole?
“This occurred in a similar way to my entry for the GP at Mallory Park this year. My style and speed had progressed in Germany, and through contacts I had gained I was able to put my name forward to Youth Stream for the chance to compete. I knew my chances were slim, as on paper I am not a GP rider, but with 4 days remaining to the event I was given the thumbs up to compete.
The whole weekend was amazing, a dream come true. I wish I could have been more prepared, thus giving me a better chance of qualifying. However with help from family and friends I was at least there.”
MOTO: This year again sees one of your main sponsors being Dirt Bike Store. Can you explain how many years the sponsorship has been going on and how the partnership all came about?
“The Dirt Bike Store has been supporting me now for six years now- Darren Moxey has been a great influence on me throughout my racing career, as well as very inspirational. He has helped me various ways including clothing sponsorship, bike sponsorship as well as continuous running costs.
During the 2008 season I have also been fortunate to pick up help from Albion Motorcycles and Fowlers of Bristol with bikes and genuine spares etc. I am very appreciative of all the help that I have received over the years, but to date I still feel my dream of qualifying for a GP is out of reach financially and without the backing of a team.”
MOTO: This season has started very for you with you in contention for the Remedies Bar Open Championship Expert title, as well as gaining top ten finishes in the MMX Open class, and scoring points in the Maxxis MX1 British Championship. What would you put your successful start down to, and have you altered your training regime of general approach to the season in any way?
“This season I have achieved some good results but also some unfortunate results which has jeopardised my championship standings. The successes I have achieved are due mainly to sheer hard work, and the bike skills which I have learnt whilst being based in Europe which are holding me in good steed thanks to Jeff Janssen in particular.
I have always featured fitness and physical training in my racing life, as it is of most importance. My physical condition is the best it can possibly be at the moment, given that I have to work full time to fund my racing. I am happy competing in England and id like to thank friends and a very supportive family for there help and understanding, which has contributed to my success.”
Interview and images by MOTO reporter Stuart Cawse
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