Austin Forkner says that while there is still pressure, his mindset is different with the Triumph rider about to become a father in a months time! But, importantly, he is confident in the bike and still believes he can win despite that horrible crash last year that required brain surgery.
“We know the bike can do it now, so that’s, I guess, adds confidence but maybe adds a little bit of pressure,” admitted Forkner in the press conference.
“Because the bike is capable and the bike is good – it’s kind of up to me. I kind of already had a feeling that we were close, which is how the bike’s been feeling and everything like that.
“Pressure? I don’t know…not really. I guess the mindset of pressure has changed a little bit now that I am about to be a dad in a month or so. That kind of changes my outlook on things a little bit, not 100%, when the gate drops it’s on! But my mindset has kind of shifted a little bit in that way. So, pressure yeah, there is always pressure to be there all season. I want to be there all season, I want to be there all season and give myself thr best shot.
“I am not just racing myself anymore, I guess I am now racing for a family and I have to think about things like that and come home every night. There’s that side of things. Pressure to win is not crazy, I know that I can but a little bit if a different outlook.”
There is no doubt about Forkner’s raw talent and pure speed, but as he said, he just has to stay healthy, if he can, he might be the fastest rider in the East.
