Belgian team manager Walter Haentjes about EMXoN
After the 'big' MX of Nations and the 'small' motocross of Nations or the future cup, the European MX of Nations has now also existed for a while. At MC Ons Genoegen they are doing everything they can to make this competition a top event next weekend. The Dutch team - which defends its title with Coldenhoff, De Reuver and Klein Kromhof - is the favorite in Markelo. However, the Belgian Team with Manuel Priem, Nick Triest and Jeremy Delincé is also keen on a top performance. Mxmag spoke about this with team manager Walter Haentjes.
Was it difficult to replace Kevin Strijbos and Jeremy Van Horebeek?
Walter Haentjes: “In cross country something can always happen, that's why I took into account from the beginning that one or more pilots could drop out. Nick Triest is already an veteran of the European MX of Nations and I think he can certainly hold his own in Markelo. It's a pity that, in addition to Van Horebeek, Strijbos cannot participate, but he hurt his knee in Mont-Saint-Guibert, has only ridden once since and does not want to take any risks. But with Jeremy Delincé we have a young pilot who is not yet well known, and I feel he has been underestimated. Delincé also rides well with both a 250 and a 450. Jeremy also knows what the EMXoN is all about because he was there last year.”
This year it seems as if there are more strong riders than ever at the start of the European Championships?
Walter Haentjes: “I don't know what it is like for other countries, of course. It was certainly easier for me to convince riders because it is not far. Last year the race was held in Ukraine, so it makes a big difference if you drop Chernivtsi or Markelo!”
Belgium has a strong record in the European MX of Nations. How many times have you won as a team manager?
Walter Haentjes: “If I'm not mistaken, five times. We have been robbed once with a jury decision, in Slovenia in 2002. That's why we lost the win, but that's already been forgotten. Such a country competition is always a special atmosphere and I like that.”
The Netherlands seems to be my favorite or am I wrong?
Walter Haentjes: “Probably yes. But I also rate the Italians highly, Davide Guarneri has already shown that he can also go fast in the sand. They also have Lupino and Bonini.”
Guarneri has now canceled and will be replaced by Manuel Monni…
Walter Haentjes: “That already makes a difference! But I also see Estonia going far. Tanel Leok is very strong in the sand and their other riders are also used to riding in the sand. Because we had to rearrange our team, the Netherlands' chances have increased. And they drive home!”
What exactly is your job as manager of the team?
Walter Haentjes: “Mainly practical matters, looking for sponsors in advance and ensuring that we get the budget. This year it isn't too bad because it is in the Netherlands, so we have some left over for next year. I also provide food and drinks, sleeping accommodation, plane tickets, rental cars... Now it has all been easier. But organizing is in my blood, I enjoy doing that. This year we also have a good masseur with us: Gilbert D'Hooghe, a well-known man in cycling. He also massages some French riders such as Arnaud Demeester. It's nice to have someone like that around. Pascal Bal will also come along for more technical matters about motocross itself. For example, Pascal can start excellently, which is always useful to convey to the drivers. I am confident for Sunday, our men will be fine!”
Photo credit: CDS
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