It’s set to be a big weekend for David Galvin as he’s representing Ireland at the Coupe de l’Avenir.
Last year Ireland won the open class which sees them running the #1, #2 and #3 numbers in the class this weekend – that brings more pressure.
We caught up with Galvin to discuss the weekend and his season.
Gatedrop: David, you will represent team Ireland at the Coupe de l’Avenir this weekend. You must be looking forward to representing your country at such a big event?
David Galvin: Ever since watching it last year all I’ve wanted to do is ride at the Coupe de l’Avenir. Obviously, it’s a huge occasion to be riding at such a big event and the fact that you’re riding for your country makes you push that bit harder.
Gatedrop: When you got the news you’d be contesting the event, how did it feel to get such a big opportunity?
David Galvin: When I got the call off Mick I couldn’t have been happier. I knew it was my last year to ride at the Coupe having missed out previous years due to exams and injuries so I was excited to finally get the opportunity.
Gatedrop: Ireland won the open class last year, does that make you feel the pressure more heading into the weekend?
David Galvin: Yeah, for sure. There’s a lot to live up to after last year and riding with the number 1 plate you really have to perform but I’m confident we can do another good job.
Gatedrop: What have you heard about the event and what’s your expectations for it?
David Galvin: I was at it last year with my brother Jack and from watching the atmosphere is incredible. No doubt that everybody there will be fast but I hope to do well because I love that sort of hard pack track.
Gatedrop: What have you been doing in order to prepare for the event?
David Galvin: I just took things a bit more seriously when it came to training on and off the bike. I started doing 25 minute moto’s as opposed to the usual 20 minute moto’s at home. Stuart Edmonds kindly made me a training programme for the months leading up to the event so I’ve never felt better so thanks Stuey!
Gatedrop: Just on your season, where you happy with how it went?
David Galvin: Yeah, this season was quite up and down for me but mostly positive. I started off the season well then I had to take time off to sit college exams and when I came back my racing was brutal to be honest. But I eventually got back into the swing of things and I finished the year on a high winning the last race of the year in Athlone.
Gatedrop: Have you any plans for 2020 yet?
David Galvin: It’s my final year of college so the plan is just to finish that off and still race at a high level over here. Once that finishes I might do a few rounds of the British but anything could happen yet!
Gatedrop: Anyone to thank? Anything else to add?
David Galvin: I’d just like to thank everyone that’s helped me all year and got me ready for this event. My dad for constantly working on my bike keeping it in tip top shape all year. Sam and Ellen for going practicing with me and pit boarding me to stop me slacking off. Also, just best of luck to everyone this weekend and keep it on two wheels!
Interview: Andy McKinstry
Pic: Ian Cairns