The chairmen: Jos Diaz (VBM)
In the series of articles “The Presidents” we ask the presidents of all motocross federations about the expectations and ambitions for the upcoming motocross season. Today it is the turn of Jos Diaz, the chairman of the VBM.
How do you look back on 2009?
If Diaz: “Pretty positive actually. VBM has been in dire straits for a while, but has now been growing again for several years. I must honestly say that we were somewhat afraid of the effects of the crisis beforehand. But in the end it all turned out well. Last year we had 320 adult riders with a permit and 80 riders in our youth work.”
What will change this year?
If Diaz: “Nothing will actually change in terms of program on Sunday compared to last year. There will be a new class for leisure riders on Saturday. We felt there was a need for that. It should become a truly accessible class for people who have never had a permit and only drive occasionally.”
Who do you expect to be at the front of the Inters this season?
If Diaz: “That's hard to say. Currently, not everyone has submitted their license application yet. I know from experience that it is only after the first two Sundays of the season that you have an idea of who is or will actually be behind the starting gate. But let me mention two names of riders who have a permit and will be at the front: Vincent Genot and Mike Vanderstraeten. If Danny De Baets also starts, he will certainly be one of the favorites in MX2.”
Organizing a motocross race is not child's play, how do you manage this smoothly with so many employees needed?
If Diaz: “Even here in Limburg, which has always been the motocross province, organizing a motocross competition is no longer an obvious thing. Just look at the commotion around the Kiezel quarry in Neeroeteren. Unfortunately, it is mainly the “old guard” who has to pull the cart when it comes to organizing competitions. Most young people first ask what they can earn, but they turn their noses up at the expense allowances that we can give them. Volunteer work hardly appeals to most people. Fortunately, VBM has added a number of motivated people in their thirties since last year. They also contributed to the good season that we had last year despite everything. So these people are a welcome reinforcement!”
During the 'Save the Motocross' parade in November, all federations were on the same page. Will there be a follow-up to this collaboration?
If Diaz: “That collaboration is something that must go through the FAM umbrella organization. FAM and VMBB must take the lead in this. Something like this needs to be discussed at a higher level to yield anything.
What do you hope to achieve in 2010?
If Diaz: “We want to do as well in 2010 as we did last year. Both in terms of rider numbers and organizations. If the status quo works, we will be satisfied.”
Photos credit: VBM & CDS
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