Column Olav In full: Ode to Gerry
We all stand on the shoulders of our ancestors. This applies just as much in sports as elsewhere. Whether they are or were riders, technicians or trainers. All those giants have done their part. Without men like Roger Decoster, Pierre Karsmakers, Mitch Payton, Harry Everts or Jan De Groot, motocross would now look different. But there have also always been pioneers closer to home. Passionate cracks, passionate minds on and off the track, men of steel. Today our new resident columnist Olav Heijt introduces us to a lesser-known star. Read and enjoy!
Got it from my parents had a great childhood. DI am still grateful to them for that. I was able to race for a number of years and had a lot of fun with it. It must have cost my father a lot of money all those years. But he also enjoyed it, I'm sure. Every year I got a new motorcycle and they always came from Franken Motors in Zegge. (editor: “Certainly for Flemish readers, just look up where that is!)
Gerry Franken has raced all his life and certainly not without merit. Gerry is a hard worker. Of course, I didn't realize that before, but I came to see that later, like other things that happen in life. Gerry was and is Mr Motocross in my eyes. He was “the man” in the region, and moreover, he was always there for you. Gerry talks, thinks and does motocross. He has everything and knows everything. That sounds exaggerated, but ask him anything and he will answer without thinking! He also knows exactly what he has in stock, knows all the models by heart, opens up every block and if he doesn't have something he simply makes it himself.
Unparalleled dedication to his customers, who automatically become friends because of the respect he commands. I remember that - even though he had to drive himself the next day - he worked through the night to fix my motorcycle. Gerry treated us and everyone like Grand Prix riders. We had to drive, that was his interest. The next morning, I think randomly, he pulled a motorcycle out of the shed, changed the filter and drove it to the cross in his typical white-blue Mercedes bus. And if Gerry was there, everything would be fine. He was able to open up your block in the riders' quarters. As hopeless as it seemed, things turned out all right. His workshop is full, very full. That has never been different, but with a blindfold he effortlessly puts your block together... And yes, with your own parts. I think Gerry still works hard and sleeps little, but I think he needs that. If you take him to Centerparcs for a weekend he will go crazy, I'm sure.
A few weeks ago I was there with a question about front fork seals. I was once again amazed at his ready knowledge. In fact, he should and could be team boss of a respected and leading Motocross team. He could and deserves that, but I'm almost certain he would turn it down. That's not Gerry either. Gerry is a healthy and living legend that we all unconsciously still honor. Gerry, maybe a little late, but thank you, thank you for the wonderful years!
About Olav In addition to being a motocross enthusiast and hobby rider, Olav Heijt is also handy with a pen. At least he writes nice! After a serious knee injury, Olav said goodbye to the competition (MON and BLB). But for about three years now he has been secretly driving again. In their own words, tape works wonders. As a hobby writer, he has already published a book entitled “Love of Life”. Both as a columnist and a writer, he wants to be heard even more in the near future. Want to read more from Olav? Then take a look here: www.olavheijt.wordpress.com
Photos: Archive Olav
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