Take 5; Jens Walvoort
The 2019 season is over and that means looking back but also looking ahead! In this Take 5 we speak with Jens Walvoort. The Brabander made his debut on the 125cc this year, he immediately showed great things, but he wants more in 2020!
MXMag: You're not very big, the intention was that you would ride 85cc for another year in 2019? Why the switch?
JW: “When we made the decision to switch, I weighed 41 kilos, which made it difficult to hold the bike. Previously you were allowed to compete in the EMX15 at the age of 85, but not anymore this year. After consultation with Stefan, we decided not to stick with the 85cc and only ride ADAC and DMofMX. We knew in advance that it would be a challenge, but a more educational option.”
MXMag: The first 125cc season is over. You came 16th in the Dutch Masters of Motocross, are you satisfied with that because the first race in Oss was good, after which it deteriorated. What happened?
JW: “No, I am not satisfied with 16th place in the final standings! During the first race in Oss things went well and I was able to finish in eighth place, the target after that was top ten. The DMofMX in Axel was a race I was looking forward to, with a third place in the time training I also showed that I have the speed. I made a big start and crashed in the third corner, meaning I couldn't get a good result. Same story in Rhenen, held pole position for a long time and eventually finished qualifying second, falls and a lack of physical strength were the reason why the results were not achieved there too. I am satisfied with the driving and the speed, and for next year I expect more results like my qualifications from this year.”
MXMag: You also competed in the EMX125, but you didn't score any points. Was that a disappointment? After all, it should have happened in Lommel.
JW: “Of course I would have liked to get my first points, but I was happy that I had qualified twelfth for the competition! The objective was to qualify, in Valkenswaard I was way too far off, Arco di Trento was already better, I missed France by 0,02, and Germany by 0,01. I qualified comfortably in Lommel, and that indicated the progress since Valkenswaard. After that I also managed to qualify for Sweden despite a thumb injury.”
MXMag: The coming season will be the third season with the Motor2000 KTM Racing Team. Are you having a good time with the team?
JW: “We started this collaboration three years ago with longer-term planning in mind. I feel good within the team and the people in the team know exactly what I need. There is no pressure and we work very well together, which makes it fun for everyone. I would like to immediately use this opportunity to thank everyone for this!”
MXMag: What does your schedule look like in 2020?
JW: I am currently busy preparing, which will take place in Spain. Most weekends from November to January I go there to train with Stefan Hage. I would have liked to be there for the entire period, but unfortunately I have to combine it with school. After this training camp I will ride Ottobiano and Hawkstone Park, then we will put the finishing touches on a final preparation phase in Spain and the first EMX125 will be in Matterley Basin. In addition to all EMX125/DMofMX125 competitions, I will also compete with the 250cc 4-stroke to prepare myself for the future.”
MXMag: What is your goal for 2020, when will this season be a success?
JW: “My goal for the EMX125 is top ten in the final standings. In the EMX, a lot is possible with a good start, so I hope to provide a surprise. In the DMofMX I want to go for the title, given my qualifying times this year I know I have the speed. In addition, we are working hard on my physical fitness, and I have also grown in the meantime, so I expect to be able to handle the competitions well.”
MXMag: Thank you for this conversation and good luck! We will follow you!
JW: “Thank you.
By: Steven van Kempen/KEMCO
Photo: #NiekFotografie
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