The meeting of Valentino Rossi...

I didn’t think anything would ever come close to my Mick Doohan ride… until about an hour ago..

Today Twitter was a buzz with news that Valentino Rossi had joined Twitter, although it was met with a lot of scepticism, as to my knowledge he has never joined any social networking sites before.  While the world was wondering is it/isn’t it him, I read his tweets, did the maths, and realised he’d be landing at Melbourne Airport in a few hours.

I’ve always believed that you need to put yourself out there, and take a few risks in life. If you’re passionate about something, go out there and get it!! Don’t wait for it to come to you, because then you will never get anywhere. Yes you still might still be having fun, but how much more fun could you have? So I went out to the airport, knowing that this is a little adventure, and if I don’t see him, who cares? I would have had fun trying anyway.

When I got to the airport I thought I still had about half hour under my belt, and was walking towards the international terminal, when I saw a whole heap of people gathered around a car. I think that was the moment that my heart got caught up in my throat. As I was walking towards a small crowd of about  10 people, I caught a glimpse of my idol, the one who was all over my walls as a teenager! The one who I was daydreaming about (as only teenage girls can do), while all my friends were dreaming about movie stars.

I went over, and he signed my fan club hat, and shook my hand. (BTW I am never washing my hand again!) I didn’t say anything to him apart from “thank you” because I was so star struck. I don’t think I walked back, more floated, and got pulled back into the small crowed as I looked on and smiled.

Melbourne Airport really seems to love me during MotoGP week, saw people come in from Sepang last year before the MotoGP, then after was the first one at the airport to win the Goodie GP, organised by Alex Briggs. He hid a prize pack at the airport which you had to find, which included a beautiful Yamaha photo book signed by Valentino Rossi! So this is his second signature I have, but this one is more special, because I got it myself! I never, ever though I would ever have the opportunity to meet the GOAT.

If I ever got the opportunity to meet him again, I don’t think I’ve be so starstruck, but I really didn’t know if the gamble of going to the airport would pay off… especially considering I was going off information from someone on Twitter, who we think could be Rossi, but not 100% sure. I also thought that I’d have to wait around the airport a bit longer, I almost missed him completely!! I’m convinced it was meant to be.

Going down to Phillip Island tomorrow, excited!! I will be trying to blog every evening, and I will also be making regular updates on Twitter. So I guess I better finish packing, now the excitement it over!!

This has seriously been the best 2 months of my life, I have had so many incredible opportunities I never thought I would have. I am feeling so blessed and lucky right now, this weekend is going to be amazing, I’ve been feeling it in my bones for months, and now it’s stronger than ever!

Hope to see as many of you as possible down there, don’t forget Friday’s meeting at Doohan Corner!!

@revvin_renee

Edit – Thinking about it, we’re also very lucky that he takes the times to sign things and say hi to his fans. He could of just got in the car, and drove away. He’s actually the first person I’ve approached at the airport, he’s a human, not a play thing! So it also speaks volumes about him that I felt comfortable enough to go up to him.  :)

Mick Doohan ride day for FANbassador Renee!

This is the first time I’ve been able to sit down and properly think about and properly deconstruct everything that was going through my head today during those 2 amazing laps with Mick Doohan. After watching as many races as I have, I don’t think my brain could stop thinking. Most people would want to turn off and enjoy the ride, I don’t think I could... turn off I mean, because I definitely enjoyed myself. What’s there not to love about going down Gardner Straight at 260kms?!

For me, it was fascinating going into the pits where we were stationed for the day. It looked so empty, but soon it will be filled with computers, equipment, fake walls with team colours, spare parts, and the all important MotoGP bikes. Where cars were parked will be full of hospitality tents, TV vans, VIP areas, and you will hear bikes revving, and the smell of… well actually to most people the smell is horrible, but any bike fan will tell you it’s the best smell in the world. It means that riders are ready to race!

Mick Doohan is amazingly talented with a pillion on the back. I’m not the smallest person in the world, and he still managed to throw the bike around a bit and give me quite a thrill! It really makes you appreciate even more the talent that he has, and how strong minded he must be to pull through his first crash, only to come back and crash again. It would have been so easy for him to walk away from the sport forever, yet he is still so happy to take people around. Although I think of him as racing royalty, he didn’t act like he was. He was more then happy to have lunch with everyone, chat, and was very caring towards everyone he took around.

I can’t help but think, things could have ended very differently for him. But I also think you also make your own luck in life, and the main reason why he is where he is today because of him, and no one else. He’s the one that got up, trained hard, and got back on that bike. I really admire his determination, and think he is a fantastic role model for anyone who has been down and out. Do a bit of reading about his career, spend a day feeling sorry for yourself, then work out a plan to get back on that horse and be as successful as you can be!

Although I’ve had many rides as a pillion, this one was very different, as I had handlebars to hold onto as opposed to holding onto someone’s waist, or belt as I used to do with dad. After the first few corners I figured out that you needed to have a lot of strength in the hands, I really admire the strength that riders must have! I used my fingers to hold on tight while going fast (or doing a mono down pit lane hehe), then as we were breaking I used the palm of my hand to hold myself back, giving your fingers a bit of rest. It sounds tricky and is hard to explain, but you need to make sure you don’t just go off the back of the bike, but don’t go over the handlebars too! 

I’m really glad that I had this opportunity at a track I know really well. I know where the braking markers are and what corner comes next. We were getting closer and closer to a braking marker, and knowing that he’s going to brake soon…soon… very soon! Then just when I was about crap my pants, he finally starts breaking and I go from holding on to keeping myself in place, almost pushing back. I always realised that you needed a lot of concentration, but I had no idea how much. I can see what riders mean when they say that they don’t hear the crowd, but feel the energy around the circuit.

I could see the white line, and knew that in 3 weeks if we were in the exact same position on the track, we would be overtaken. On some corners I would knew another bike could squeeze in, and they probably would. I was imagining what it would be like to have someone ride that close to you, doing those speeds, I think it would be an indescribable feeling. I have so much more respect especially for 125 and Moto2 riders, who spend a whole race overtaking, and being overtaken. These 2 classes are fun and exciting, with a large field and everyone fighting for position.

This year I want to stand at Doohan Corner and see one of the support races starting. I will be paying particular attention to how close they get to each other. I really do think I will have a new appreciation for it. From MotoGP, right down to those racing in the Historic class (or the ‘fuddy-duddy class as dad called it’), it would still be scary to overtake.

When I got off the bike I started tearing up, not because I was scared, but because I was so happy! I think then I fully realised what I’d just done, and how special it was. I’m sure most of you have seen the video, which was taken just after I got off the bike. Watching it back, I can’t stop laughing! I’m never lost for words, I could talk underwater with a mouth full of marbles! But it was so hard to get the words out, and my hands were still shaking, I didn’t know what to do with them!

I would like to thank each and every person from the Australian Grand Prix Corporation who was there for making me feel so welcome and special on the day. There was not one person who didn’t come and introduce themselves to me, I was also really surprised that some remembered me from last year! They are such a great bunch of people, and are really passionate about what they do. Everyone is working so hard to ensure that this year is the best year yet! The grounds are looking great, the construction of the grandstands is in full swing, and I think the shuttle bus for grandstand holders will be a hit!

For those who are worried about the weather, the undercover grandstand on Gardner Straight is a great addition to this years ticketing options. What I don’t think a lot of people realise is how many stakeholders there are to consult with to ensure the success of the event. The track isn’t owned by AGPC, they hire it months in advance to erect grandstands and prepare the grounds. I’m sure that there are a lot of decisions which need to be made with Dorna also.

If only they were in charge of the weather as well!! But I must admit, I did feel this sense of pride when I survived last year. Mother Nature threw the most horrible weather at us, but it still couldn’t keep me away! I got wet, but thanks to my gumboots my feet always stayed dry which I think is the most important thing. I brought a towel for the car to half dry off before going home…. I showered, slept, then did the same thing all over again!

I am a passionate, dedicated racing fan who feels very lucky to have a MotoGP not only in my home country, but my home state! You can’t wipe the smile off my face all weekend, because even though things are never perfect, they are the things that sometimes make the weekend.

This happy and proud FANbassador challenges you to come on down, and see what I’m always raving on about!! Don’t have anyone to go with?... don’t worry!! I went by myself last year, and met the friendliest people on my travels, some who I still keep in contact with. Live in Melbourne, and not really sure if you’ll enjoy bike racing? Come down for the Saturday or Sunday, and see what it’s all about! You never know, you could become as hooked on racing as I am  :)

Looking forward to seeing you all down there!! But if you can’t, follow me on Twitter, and I will be sure to keep you updated with all the goss!

@revvin_renee

AusMotoGP Meet-Up!!

Less then a month to go until the Australian MotoGP!!

There are so many wonderful people who I speak to via Twitter and Facebook, and I would really like the opportunity to meet you all. I also think it would be a fantastic opportunity to get out there and meet fellow MotoGP fans!!

I am proposing that we all meet near Doohan Corner in between Free Practice 1 and Free Practice 2, so about 1ish. We can watch the Australian Superbike qualifying together, cheer on our favourites in the support category, and hopefully have a few laughs! This year I’ve been trying to give back a little to a sport which provides me with so much enjoyment. Every year Australian MotoGP supports a charity, and this year they have chosen Redkite. Redkite provide support and assistance to families who have a child living with cancer. I have done some reading, and believe that this is a very worthy charity to support. If you would like to know more visit their website http://redkite.com.au/

In addition to bring something to eat to share with everyone, I think it would be a great idea if we also used this gathering to support Redkite. It would be a great way to ultimately support the Australian MotoGP, and show them that we support the idea of having a chosen charity each year. It would be a wonderful gesture if we could all make a gold coin donation, and I will let them know via Twitter when and where they can find us.

There’s nothing better then seeing children smiling and laughing on a race weekend. They are the people who are going to keep the sport going, and it’s important to include them wherever possible. I think we may also see some very special kids and their families wandering around this year. Picnics are always fun, and I would also like to invite them to also join us if they would like. I’m sure the kids will probably have a million questions, and I also think that we are the best people to answer them!

I’m not sure how this will go, but I hope to see you on Friday. I also hope that the weather is nice enough so we can all sit outside and enjoy each other’s company! Please do not think “I don’t have a Twitter/Facebook and don’t even talk to these people”, I’m sure everyone would love to meet you and have a chat.

And if you have any other questions/comments, I would love to hear from you  :)


Edit - I've decided that 1.10pm would be a good time to meet, after Moto2 free practice (Timetable here - http://motogp.com.au/event/2011-event-schedule)
There's no pressure to say yes or no but Friday, 1.10pm, Doohan Corner, we'll be the ones with a tarp on the ground and lots of food that looks like it doesn't go together  :P

Reflections of a Rossi fan....

 For anyone who reads my Twitter *insert shameless plug here* I’ve made no secret of the fact that I am a major Rossi fan. I’ve also always loved the Ducati. The sounds that it makes has always been music to my ears, and that ‘popping’ noise is my favourite motorbike noise.

So like Ducati/Rossi fans all over the world, I thought that this would be a match made in heaven, and immediately starting thinking about how awesome it would be to see them on top. And now half way through the season everyone is shaking their heads, and wondering what’s going on.

I can clearly see that there are people especially in Australia, but all over the world that are basking in the glory of Stoner performing, and Rossi not. I don’t think anyone expected it, especially with the team that he has working alongside him. Most of his team have been working with him since his Repsol Honda days, and some of them have been working together since before they worked for Mick Doohan. And quite a few of them are Australian.

Jeremy Burgess has always been very highly regarded in and out of the MotoGP paddock, and his results, like Rossi’s, speak for itself. JB as he’s widely known has worked with so many successful riders, and many of them have attributed their success to how he can set a bike up. I can imagine that the team is feeling pretty deflated, and rightly so, but they shouldn’t forget all the success they have had, and use that to prop themselves up to get them through this hard time.

To the haters, when you are bagging out Rossi, you are bagging out his team. When you are bagging out his team, you are bagging out Australians. You are also bagging out an amazing Chief Mechanic, who is Australian, and who frankly doesn’t deserve your crap.

Before this season I must admit, I was quick to point out faults of other riders, just like I’ve always been quick to point out their strengths. But for the first time I’ve been on the receiving end, and let me tell you it’s not very nice. Through Twitter I’ve also feel that I’m privileged to hear from mechanics and crews in various teams, all of a sudden they are so much more human to me! They’re all great people, who don’t have hearts of steel, and to be honest I’m glad they don’t!

So I have changed my ways, and decided to only be positive. As hard as that can be sometimes, it’s also pretty easy as I don’t want anyone to hear a bad word about a sport I love and am obviously passionate about. It’s ok to talk amongst ourselves, but we never know who will be listening…

I know that I will probably get a lot of crap over this, people telling me that I’m soft, I have an ulterior motive. This year has opened my eyes to what it’s like not supporting a winner, and I’ll be honest, I don’t like it! As a Rossi fan since 1996 there hasn’t been a lot of times where he hasn’t been successful. I have always said though after his accident last year it would be very interesting to see what he did, and no one can say it’s been boring!

Saying all this though, I will be proudly wearing my fan club hat and shirt at Phillip Island, and shouting myself hoarse! Don’t forget, it’s the home track for a lot of his team too. And I know that he will get back up there, victory will be that much sweeter after everything that Rossi and the team have gone through!

www.twitter.com/revvin_renee

Moving and Looking Forward

I'm sure it's not news to you that Australia lost a big personality in the motorcycle industry a few weeks ago, Ken Wootton. It's surprised me how deeply effected I was by this, and the sadness that I felt. I met Ken at the Australian MotoGP in 1999 when I was 15, and went with dad. Earlier that year Valentino Rossi had 'tweeked' Fred Gassit's goolies, and I was determined to do the same thing. (Fred Gassit is a cartoon character from Australian Motorcycle News, and looks like a dog. Every now and then 'Fred' would pop up at a MotoGP somewhere, if you haven't seen his classic lines, I'd recommend you check him out!)


Dad and I hunted Fred down at in the expo tent, and while I was getting my photo taken with him dad said "now go for the goolies!" The man in the suit was very surprised I think, this 15 year old girl doing something her idol had done, her knowing about it, and her dad encouraging it! I also managed to get kisses on the cheek from about 8 riders that weekend, as dad patiently waiting in the autograph cue with me, once again encouraging me to live my dream, not to mention taking photos of all of it!


On the Sunday we saw the 'Gassitmobile', and Ken was standing close by. I sneaked into the drivers seat for a quick photo before Ken came around the corner just as I hopped out. He recognised me, grabbed both my hands, and started almost doing the tango. "Keep those hands where I can see them, I know all about you", he laughed as dad took a photo.


That is the only time I've met Ken, but that brief moment where he made me feel included, almost into a secret club, and spoke to me about the Grand Prix (as I must remember it was called in those days!), he left an everlasting impression about people who are in the industry. I also know that I've been to events that he has tirelessly fought for, and my dad has raced in events that he's created.


I feel like he's done so much, and I'm eternally grateful for it. I also feel like there are impossible boots to fill... but can I fill some of them?


This is an industry I'm always saying I love, and will fight passionately for. But I need to start putting my money where my mouth is, and do something with all this passion that I have. I'm still not sure what that is, but I think it has to start online, and also has to start with me volunteering at more events.


All I know is that I need to start doing something. I tried to find Ken at the Australian MotoGP last year, but he hasn't in his garage when I walked passed. I wanted to tell him I'm still coming here, 11 years later, and even by myself as I have no one to go with... but I still love this event. Tell him how 1999 made such a difference in my life, and maybe do the tango for old times sake  :P


If anyone has any ideas on what I should do to unleash this passion I have inside me, I'd love to hear your thoughts.


In the mean time, I am going to keep on writing in here in the build up to the Australian MotoGP... only 66 more sleeps!!