Five minutes with Sven van der Mierden
In the ONK MX1 standings, Sven van der Mierden (Husqvarna SKS Racing) is in 7th place. Since the championship is still long, that doesn't mean much. However, anyone who has already seen van der Mierden drive knows that it is good! The young driver from Valkenswaard also reached the podium in Axel last weekend. MXMag sat down with Sven at the table in the cozy canteen of REX Axel.
It seems like you have been competing in MX1 for years. What a debut on the 450!
Sven van der Mierden: “I started riding the 450 in January. At the moment I certainly can't complain about how things are going. It was great to take the podium in Axel. Although of course I also had some luck with the disqualification of Micha-Boy De Waal. There are no expectations from the team this year. Just do my best and score as high as possible.”
Did you approach winter training differently to switch to the MX1?
van der Mierden: “I train with Bart Nelissen and he has put more emphasis on strength exercises in recent months. That's necessary because otherwise a 450 will break down quickly! You immediately feel the push of one lap. Before you know it you will have fat arms. That's different than with a 250.”
How did you customize the bike?
van der Mierden: “The team knew exactly how I wanted the bike and Hans Koenen (red, technical manager of SKS Husqvarna and owner of 4-Stroke MX Service) had a good sense of what was needed for me. For example, the gear ratios have been changed to make it a bit milder. I'm supposed to ride the motorcycle, not the other way around!”
With this form it would be great to see you in the MXGP of Valkenswaard, right in your backyard.
van der Mierden: “That is true. Nice to take with you, but we have to see how that goes. If things are going well there, we might participate in a few more. Otherwise you don't have to think about it, you just tear down rather than build up.”
What are your goals this year?
van der Mierden: “I especially want to see how far I can go in the Dutch Masters of Motocross. In addition, the ADAC MX Masters competitions are also on my calendar.”
Sven van der Mierden's strongest point is…
van der Mierden: "Never give up! I just have to get to the finish line. (smiles) Even if only with half an arm.”
Even when you had only ridden the 450 a few times, the Red Bull Knock Out was also a stroke of luck?”
van der Mierden: “That went well right away, I was satisfied with that twelfth place. It remains a tough race! Those beach races are nice, if possible I would like to participate in a few more this year.”
Who have you learned the most from as a rider?
van der Mierden: “That is slightly different than most drivers because my dad was a football player. Our grandfather has been involved in the association for a very long time. No one told me this is how it should be done. I picked everything out myself. Still, I have already had a nice cross career.”
Do you ever think about a full season of Grand Prix?
van der Mierden: “It remains a goal somewhere, but you also have to be realistic. At the moment I just work four days a week so that I can train with the motorcycle on Wednesdays. Driving GPs costs so much money and it is not easy to get it done.”
What do you expect from the Dutch Masters in Oss this weekend?
van der Mierden: “I'm looking forward to it. They also changed a few things about the track to make it a bit smoother. There is now also a step-off. I think Oss is a nice course to ride. The field of participants is really strong, with half of the world's best at the start!”
How can amateur crossers learn from your character and perseverance?
van der Mierden: “Always enjoy driving as much as possible. That is the most important. If you don't have that, it won't work at all. So make sure you enjoy it and things will get better automatically!”
Have fun Sunday!
van der Mierden: "Thank you!"
Photos: SKS Husqvarna / Huub Munsters
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