Five minutes with Damon Graulus
The dissolution of the 24MX Honda team obviously did not come as a surprise to Damon Graulus. The 23-year-old Graulus rode in the MXGP for the team from Eke in 2017 and 2016. We asked about the plans of the former Belgian, Dutch and French MX2 champion.
Although he suffered a serious thumb injury early in the season, Graulus still managed to get into the spotlight several times. There are also 13 in a very strong fieldde in 14. de places did not fall from the sky. Yet that was not enough to open many doors for 2018. Especially in an interim season in which a number of top players were also available on the transfer market. “Just after the season I had a very difficult time with my situation. Of course, I knew then that the future was very uncertain. Having to fight for a whole year in difficult circumstances, with minimal reward, something like that gnaws away at your motivation. To be honest, I had my fill of motocross in September. I had already decided for myself that I no longer wanted to do GPs. Actually, I just wanted to stop driving myself completely.” A number of internships in France, where the passionate Flemish Brabander passed on his knowledge, ultimately brought about a change.
If it itches…
“I got on the 125cc of one of the riders present. Especially to feel the circuit for yourself. Then it struck me again how much fun it is to ride a motorcycle. I still think motocross is the best sport in the world. When you can just do your thing without pressure. If you can drive in good conditions. My whole life has always been about motocross. Of course, years of working to achieve your goals cannot simply be wiped away. A lot of people wanted to talk to me when they heard that I no longer wanted to ride GPs. You are still so young, you cannot give up... That is all true, but you also want to build something socially. Riding GPs year after year without earning anything is not sustainable.” Damon is not bitter, he also understands the decision of his ex-team boss Marc Boone. Moreover, his situation is unfortunately not unique. “There are plenty of other riders who are in the same boat as myself. Look at a Benoit Paturel. That boy had a good season in MX2, he finished fifth in the World Championship, won a GP series, yet he has no handlebars for next year.”
From Plan-B to Plan-B
Graulus also knows very well how quickly things can change. In the youth ranks he was considered an absolute top talent. He completed a bumpy course on the larger motorcycles. He unexpectedly had to make way at Standing Construct, later also at Kemea Yamaha. Due to a combination of circumstances, he left Jtech-Honda, which eventually pulled the plug this year. “All those struggles year after year will also have an impact. So that certainly played a role in going in a different direction. Staying in the GPs is one thing, but being able to work with good equipment and a solid framework is quite another. Supporters sometimes can't see past the shiny team truck or the beautiful sticker set. The differences between factory teams and private teams are much greater than people imagine.” Damon could start working in France next year. The French championship is familiar territory for him. This year he also showed that he can compete for prizes in MX1. Graulus would also be seen in Belgium and attend individual international competitions. Moreover, he has also found a new professional challenge.
“I just started working as a physical coach and personal trainer at Rocky's in Begijnendijk, Ricky Nijs' new gym. (smiles) I have also always enjoyed the physical training, unlike some other riders! Conditioning and strength training have always fascinated me. That is why I enjoy passing on my knowledge and helping people achieve their personal goals.”
Afraid of the reset button?
After four seasons of GPs, Damon is saying goodbye. Given his great technical qualities, unfortunately he was never really able to show what was in it. Yet there are bigger dramas than that and Graulus still has plenty of time to build a great international career. “When you ride GPs, that's all that matters. Training, driving and traveling rule your life. What will take its place if you stop doing that? I've struggled with that question too. I think many drivers are afraid of that question. You're used to a certain life, changing everything is never easy. That is why I am so happy that I have now found a new challenge with physical guidance. In combination with my local program in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, this is a very nice balance! I'm really looking forward to this new start.”
Tekst: Tom Jacobs
Photos: shotbyBavo, Dieter Jans
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