A BOROUGH motorcycle racer has his sights set high prior to his debut campaign abroad in the European Junior Cup, writes Shaun Reynolds.
16-year-old Alex Murley only started racing bikes aged 12, though has took to the sport like a duck to water and is hoping to follow up his success from last year’s when he won the Kawasaki Junior Cup.
Based in Chadwick End, Alex will compete in Spain, Holland, France, Germany, Italy and England and race against over 30 riders.
Murley started his career in 2012 by riding minimotos – a path used by current motorcycle stars including Scott Reading and Danny Kent.
He then progressed to race on 70cc bikes before embarking on his debut Kawasaki Junior Cup campaign in 2013 – before going on to win the same event in 2014.
Murley admits this year is about improving and he wants to achieve a top ten spot in the European Cup.
He told The Observer: “Last season I was doubting myself but we reached the final round and won the championship which was fantastic.
“Though the European Cup is the natural progression, this year is like taking three steps up and the competition I’m going to face will be tough.
“The tracks I’ll ride this year will be completely different to the British tracks, not only because of the weather but also the layouts.”
Like any upcoming sportsman, Murley receives a great amount of support from his family, friends and school – and always described his achievements as ‘our’ achievements, putting his progress down to the team behind him.
Murley – who will reach speeds of up to 145mph during his races – said: “Racing my bike is a way of life – as cliche as it sounds, it’s true.
“I have amazing support from my Mum and Dad who give me the best support I could ask for in every aspect, without my parents I wouldn’t be racing and progressing as I am.”
The Birmingham Ormiston Academy pupil explained how fitness is a huge part of motorcycle racing – one of the most physically demanding sports.
He looks up to Valentino Rossi and Talan Skeels-Piggins, a motorcycle racer who is paralysed from his waist down but continues to race despite requiring assistance to get on his bike.
Alex also said that he’s accepted the fact he can go and injure himself at any time, though he aims to stay as fit as possible to ensure he reaches his maximum potential.
He added: “I cycle ten hours each week and work out a lot.
“If your fitness is good, you can concentrate easier so it’s vital to stay in good shape so towards the end of a race you’re not making silly mistakes and causing myself unnecessary danger.”
Alex is still searching for sponsors ahead of the 2016 and has asked companies interested in getting involved to email himself.
Contact [email protected] or visit www.alexmurleyracing.com for more information about Alex’s career.
