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Last Updated: Nov 28th, 2010 - 10:22:29 |
When it comes to speedway racing, Invercargill teenager Jake Gillespie certainly isn’t afraid of the throttle – and it’s earned him an exclusive invitation to train in Australia with the best.
Jake is one of just six New Zealand riders selected by the FIM – the World Motorcycle Federation – to attend a training camp in Melbourne this weekend.
Oreti Park Speedway boasts two riders in the kiwi contingent with Gore’s Jack Macrae also awarded the opportunity to be mentored by international speedway legend Leigh Adams.
Currently ranked sixth in the world, Adams has enjoyed an impressive career in the professional ranks of Europe – a fact not lost on Jake.
“My ultimate goal is to be world champion and race professionally as well,” he said.
“I just love riding motorbikes and getting out there and doing it.”
Jake, 13, has been tearing around the track since he was 10 and secured second at the national championships earlier this year.
His need for speed could be attributed to genetics, with dad Fraser the current New Zealand Short Track Champion for sidecars and a top contender, together with swinger David Uitentuis, for this weekend’s Burt Munro Challenge Speedway Spectacular.
“I’ve been second in the Burt Munro a couple of times so I’m hoping to improve on that,” Fraser said.
“Jake would love to be racing this weekend as well but this camp is a fantastic opportunity for him and will really broaden his horizons.”
Oreti Park Speedway was justifiably proud of Jake and Jack, who have promising careers ahead of them.
“If you don’t have the young guys coming along you’ve got nothing when us old blokes drop off,” Fraser said.
“This will really introduce them to the world of international speedway.”
Every facet of the sport will be covered, from bike set up and riding techniques to life in the professional arena.
But for Jake, there was one aspect in particular he was eagerly anticipating.
“I’m just looking forward to getting on the bike.”
The pair will return home primed for action at the New Zealand under-21 championships on home turf at the Oreti Park track on December 12.
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