EA few weeks ago we had a nice chat with Wayne Lumgair, better known as Tyla Rattray's stepfather and mechanic. After 'Styla' became world champion in the MX2008 class in 2, he followed his dream and moved to the States. This also made Tyla's mother Tracey and Wayne leave with Tyla to the States. Two years later, Tyla is slowly getting into his stride and the Rattray family has found its place in SOCAL.
Wayne, coming to Europe as a South African and then moving to the states undoubtedly requires a lot of adjustment, which step was the most difficult for you?
WL: Gosh, both changes have been a big turnaround in our lives. Each of them has its positive and negative sides. For example, I really enjoyed being in Europe and I absolutely love the rich culture, but the weather is usually disappointing. In California the weather is great every day. In terms of climate it is close to that of South Africa, but anyway I miss my home country.
Everything is also different in the field of MX, I suppose?
WL: Here too, the weather plays a major role. The beautiful weather means you can go anywhere for optimal training throughout the season. Moreover, there are many more circuits, which makes it easier. The courses themselves differ from the European ones, but the real competitions are not that different. Both ride at a very high level.
If you had to choose between US and Europe? Both personally and MX-wise.
WL: Tough choice, personally USA is easier for me because of the language and climate. But I still enjoy the memories from Europe, and I miss it too. It is also difficult to choose when it comes to MX. I'm just super happy that I get to experience both sides. And each has its specific charms and negatives.
Tyla went from the largest European team to the most prestigious team in the states. Probably a big adjustment not only for him but also for you. As a mechanic, is there a difference?
WL: In terms of structure, both teams work quite similarly. As a mechanic, however, there is a bit more to it than PC. At KTM I only had to take care of the GP engine. Here I am responsible for the racing engine, training engine and the engines themselves. Moreover, traveling is a lot harder. Due to the long distances, the truck very rarely returns to the workshop, so we usually have to assemble the engine somewhere along the way.
What's it like having Mitch Payton as your boss?
WL: Mitch is a good guy who hates losing and always goes for the win. He is not as strict as many think on his drivers and mechanics. When he sees that everyone is doing their best, he is satisfied.
Are the US bikes better than the European ones?
WL: Yes, they have more power. This is mainly due to the different petrol and the higher noise standards.
A few weeks ago an agreement was signed between FIM and AMA to equalize the rules. What do you think of that ?
WL: It is certainly a step in the right direction to bring the two continents closer together. However, the petrol we use here is very expensive and that could become a sore point for the GP teams. In terms of sound it's good to have both right, but personally I think the new standards are too low and I don't think that's good for the sport.
That brings us to the future… Electric MX bikes
WL: It is possible that we will see the top cars with electric motorcycles in a few years, but I hope from the bottom of my heart that this will not happen. That is also what I fear with the low noise standards. People come to watch MX for the adrenaline of the roaring engines, which are just part of the spectacle. I can't bear to think about missing the smell and sound of a purebred MX bike. I don't think people would come to see it anymore...
Tyla took a step forward this year and is doing quite well in the nationals, is the title possible?
WL: We are already on the right path. Tyla has already won a few matches and is close to the leader in the championship. He knows what it takes to win a championship and I believe he can do it!
Many riders who left Europe to chase their American dream come back with hanging legs, what do they miss to make it in the states?
WL: I think the most important thing is just staying healthy and injury-free. The season here is quite long with 17SX competitions and 12 nationals. The way of racing is also slightly different here, it is more intense and a lot more aggressive than what they are used to.
Are you still following the GPs?
WL: Yes, there were already some pretty exciting competitions this year!
Who do you think will be world champion?
WL: I think Cairoli in the MX1 class. He has a strong condition and is also very smart in his matches. And Roczen in the MX2 class. He has that extra bit of speed that the others lack. But many riders have worked hard and so anything can still happen.
What are the plans for next year?
WL: To date, negotiations for next year have not started, but they will soon. Tyla would like to ride 450 in the outdoors, but should still ride 250 in the SX competitions for another year, so we'll see what comes out of it. I already think that Tyla on the 4502 would be a good combination in the outdoors!
Will we see a South African team at the MXON?
WL: I hope so! I hope Z-AF sends a team to France, and Tyla would love to be part of it. It just depends on what the federation will decide. If they have to finance their own trip, they can already look for sponsors. We already have someone in South Africa who is mediating between the federation, sponsors and riders. I hope to be there already!
Thanks in advance and good luck in the remaining nationals!
Images: Frank Hoppen / Wavel Bush
