They are still young dogs, but they dream big. Motocross riders Roan van de Moosdijk (22) and Kay de Wolf (18) hope to succeed Jeffrey Herlings as MXGP motocross champion in a few years. But that is future music because first the Brabant talents have to perform well in the MX2 this season. “It’s watching your food, sleeping on time and training a lot.”
In Lommel, Belgium, Roan and Kay walk proudly through the Husqvarna workshop. In this factory team, the talented drivers have access to all the professional help they could wish for. “When I’m here,” says Van de Moosdijk, “I enjoy it every time.”
The workshop is therefore the Valhalla for the motocross enthusiast. It is a completely white, almost sterile space where high-level mechanics tinker with the engines. Everything is neatly arranged at the workbenches: tires, nuts, exhausts, throttles, you name it. “It’s a great feeling to have such a good team behind you,” says Kay de Wolf.
“My ultimate dream is to become world champion within five years.”
That team must ensure that the drivers perform as well as possible. The bar is high, as are Roan and Kay’s ambitions. “This is my last year in MX2,” says Van de Moosdijk. I’ve been on the podium a few times, but I’m pining for an overall win. Next year I hope for a factory team in MXGP. Because of my build, I think I will come out better on a heavier bike.”
Kay de Wolf doesn’t beat about the bush and goes for the absolute top. “I want to finish in the top three this season,” he says of his ambitions. “But my ultimate dream is to become world champion within five years. I will not give up until I achieve this.”
To make their dreams come true, both talents have to work hard. “It’s very hard work,” Kay agrees. “You’re working on it 365 days a year. It’s watching your food, sleeping on time and training a lot.”
“You put in a lot of hours on it, so I do like my bike, yes.”
Both drivers are therefore almost married to their motorcycle. “In love is a big word, but it feels like one,” Roan reveals. “You put in a lot of hours on it, so I do like my bike, yes.” And Kay jokes: “My engine is nice and quiet, because I can turn it off if I don’t want any nagging.”
De Wolf narrowly missed out on the overall victory during the GP in Sardinia last weekend, but is well placed second in the battle for the world championship. Van de Moosdijk, who was injured all winter, starts a bit hesitantly with a seventh place, but has the top five within reach. During the Easter weekend, both gentlemen will be in action during the GP in Switzerland.
Watch MX Brabant next Sunday from 20.30, Omroep Brabant’s new online program about motocross with the GP in Switzerland.