The Belgian youth report: part 3
We are now ready for our third part in the annual report of Belgian youth talents. BMB youth coach Yves Devlaminck examines Erik Willems and is already looking ahead to the new motocross season. The first part of the Belgian Youth Report here., for part two click here.
Erik Willems
Yves Devlaminck: “If you only go by his results, Erik's last 85cc season was not such a success. He had too many problems for that: technical defects, an injury and he has also become a bit too big. During the summer Willems switched to 125cc. This gave us a completely different rider, a metamorphosis, so to speak! His riding has also gained a lot of maturity. Erik looks for interesting lines and does not hesitate to try new things on the course. His position on the bike is absolutely good, no unnecessary use of the clutch or the rear brake, both his jumps and his turns are excellent. In terms of driving style, there is very little to criticize about Willems. Because he is sufficiently mature in terms of both stature and personality, I can see him switching to a 15cc at the age of 16 or 450. And Erik is also a go-getter. What he showed in Orp was almost unbelievable! I can't resist but physically and mentally he reminds me of Clément Desalle... This season he will be working in France before we see him again in the 125cc Beloften. Definitely someone to follow… »
New 85cc winners in 2012?
2011 was also the year in which we met some new faces. I think about, among other things Michiel Breugelmans, Tim Louis, Nolan Cordens, Thomas Van Erum, Mathias Van Roy, Yannick Vertommen, Omar Baloglu, Robin Colembie, Jens Bogaerts, Dante Nijs or for example Louis Forgiarini. There are only so many weeks left before the new season starts and then we will get a first taste of how these pilots have prepared for 2012. Those who have done their homework well, I expect the names above to be at the front.
In conclusion, I would like to wish all riders a few more fruitful weeks of preparation for the new season. And while I still have your attention, I would like to point out that the 85cc is only an intermediate step. Most of the work to become a good rider or a top rider is still to come. This means that there must still be room to grow, improve and become more professional. This applies to all levels, mental, physical, material, transport, financial and the time you invest in your sport.
In its anniversary year of 2012, the BMB will continue its support and training of youth pilots. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me personally, press here to email. For those who were not included in our youth report or want more than a brief mention: please prove me wrong... good luck to all riders and families!
Credit photos: Gino Maes
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