By Next to take part in Road Racing News, revamped Manx GP Top 6 series is IRRC race winner, endurance racing specialist, Gabriel ‘PonPon’ Pons.
Leading newcomer from this summer’s history-making Senior MGP, the Toulouse rider, answers to the Mountain Course themed set of questions, are as follows:
Q1: When you first competed at the Manx, what was your first initial thought of the Mountain Course?
“Before competing I was-petrified. I tried my best to learn the course through onboard videos, and those are scary because it looks awfully narrow, blind, and bumpy.
While I was preparing, I felt unsure about my capabilities to do it at a decent enough pace. But as soon as I had my first few miles in, I was relieved; it is actually-a-lot easier than it looks. I enjoyed myself straight away and had a good feeling from my very first outing.”
Q2: Most memorable Manx GP bike?
“I have to say Scott Racing’s Super Twins were the most memorable. Very-nice bikes and the sound of thunder!”
Q3: Most treasured memory from the Manx?
“Most treasured memory must be after the Senior race; we went out to the pub with my team to celebrate and had a super enjoyable night.
We did all right in the race, and once it’s over the pressure is off, the stress is off, you can relax and let everything sink in. As I was-well surrounded by my wife and a great-team of people, it was super cool!”
Q4: Is there one specific Manx GP competitor that you look up to?
“I just have to say massive respect to everyone that dares to do it. Also hats off to Johnny Stewart, incredible performance; head-and-shoulders above everyone else.”
Q5: Describe the Manx GP in one word?
“Unreal”
Q6: Finally, if you could race one machine from any series, championship around the Mountain Course, what would it be?
“Without having to think about it because I already know; any GP 250 bike from the Lightweight category.
Cannot beat a real 2-Stroke Grand Prix motorbike! And if I-was lucky enough to choose one bike, I would go for a 2008/2009 Aprilia RSA 250 hands-down!”
Photo credit: Mark Corlett
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
