|
Full Name : Jouni Seppänen
Nationality : Finnish Date of birth/age : 08.05.1959 (52 years old) Place of Birth : Forssa, Finland How did you start in ice speedway? I´ve always been interested in bikesports. 27 years ago, I met a friend in a bar, and he asked me "what about if we start to race Ice Speedway?". The very next Monday we both ordered bikes from the dealer and started (my most expensive pints ever!) What is the best advice you can give to somebody young or old hoping to ride an ice speedway bike? Do not hesitate to contact your local riders (or any riders you may know/befriend). You will get all the help and advice you want/need to make a start. That will save you a lot of money. Are you racing for any teams this season (if so, who?)? I will race for Team Finland who compete in the Swedish Allsvenskan League How/where/when do you practice? Normaly the lakes are frozen at this time of year. We just make temporary tracks on lakes and practice there. Off- season, I´ll concentrate on some gym work, and nordic walking Do you have any pre-race superstitions? I used to have some but I noticed that they didn´t work! Of course I prepare the same way for each race - practice to calm down and concentrate before every start Your opinion on: a) - The best thing(s) about Ice Speedway & b) - The worst thing(s) about Ice Speedway: The best thing about Ice Speedway is definitely the people in the Sport - both the riders and supporters. Without racing Ice Speedway, I would have never met such great people. I have good friends wherever I travel. Of course, it´s also the thrill before each race - feeling that you´re doing something special and rare. Traveling and meeting new people is also a great benefit. The worst thing is that it takes lot of your time...and all your money!! Have you suffered any injuries? If so, what? Bruises, a few stitches, broken ribs (normal stuff for ice racers). In the late 1980´s however, I broke two vertebrae in my lower back, and that was a pretty close call Your typical pre-race meal (if any)? A good breakfast; something light about 3 hours before the start, and plenty of water during the races What are your personal aspirations/goals for this season? I want to compete in as many races as possible. The Finnish final is my main aim What is your best ever result? My best result is Silver in the Finnish Final in 2010 (which was my 25th final). I´ll never give up! Of course it´s still a great achievement to simply start my 27th season What is your favourite track? My favourite tracks in Finland are Kuusankoski and the old Forssa track. I also like Inzell and Berlin Your tip for 'one to watch' / future star this season? You better keep your eye on Antti Aakko and Dimitri Koltakov! Favourite pastime(s) outside of Speedway? Motorbikes - I have owned bikes since I was 16. I have some classic British bikes (REAL MOTORCYCLES!); Norton Commando 850cc, Matchless 500 cc, BSA ZB 350 cc. My every day bike is a Ducati Diavel. I also enjoy music (Blues and Rock), and reading On a lighter note...your favourite 'tipple' (alcoholic drink!)?! Beer! Who is the best rider you have ever seen? Jarmo Hirvasoja Who do you think will win the Ice Speedway World Team and Individual Championships? Team - Russia Individual - Dimitri Koltakov Finally, do you/have you ever raced summer/regular Speedway? I started in longtrack. I´ve tried 'regular' Speedway, but it´s far too difficult! |