Motorcycling Australia (MA) caught up with Australia’s only rider in the World Trial Championship Connor Hogan to learn all about his new lifestyle and training regime overseas, as MA turns the spotlight to Aussie talent on the international stage. Hogan spills on his weirdest overseas experience so far and what he misses most about being away from home.
Where are you currently competing?
Andorra and then Portugal the following weekend. Back to France and Belgium in two weeks.
What’s the hardest thing about adapting to your new country?
Getting used to the different weather from home. It is currently quite warm and when I left home we had finally had some rain and it was cold. I also have to get used to driving on the other side of the road.
What do you miss most about home?
Mum’s cooking.
What is your preparation/training regime like?
I have been spending a lot of time on the bike and also riding a 250 at home instead of a 300 as I have to ride a 250 for the world championships. Over summer leading into the trials season I did lots of swimming and farm work to keep my fitness levels high even in the hot weather.
What’s been a highlight for you this year?
The chance to ride in Trial 2 which is very hard but to then keep improving my results is a highlight. Also getting 3rd place in the X-Trial in Perth earlier this year was a great feeling.
What is your single most motivating force?
I am always looking to improve my result.
Tell us a bit more about what you hope to achieve and what you have already achieved in 2018?
I would be thrilled to get a top 20 in Trial 2 this year as it is a very competitive class with many excellent riders. I am really looking forward to the Trials des Nations later in the year and would love to get a gold medal again after last year’s win. To be top 5 at the Australian Championships is another goal for the year.
What’s your strangest overseas experience been so far?
I ate pork intestines by accident.
Do you have a special message for your fans back home?
I really appreciate all of the support, thank you.
Favourite thing to do besides motorcycling?
Drive.
Embarrassing fact about you?
I am now known by many of the World championship riders for my very long tongue.
Describe yourself in three words
Determined, driven and passionate.
This is the beginning of a series MA is producing to shine the light on Aussies taking on the world.
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