Five minutes with Neil Hodgson

Commentating on Eurosport, demo riding at bike shows, instructing on track days and being the Ducati 848 Challenge ambassador are just a few of the jobs that keep Neil Hodgson amused these days. Last week I tripped over the 2003 World Superbike Champion in Almeria so a few personal questions had to be asked.

N.M. You seem to have a permanent grin on your face these days, any particular reason?

N.H. To be honest Niall, I feel like I’m living the dream. My life is in a good place these days with a steady flow of enjoyable work and none of the stress that comes with being a full time racer.

N. M. So which gig gives the most pleasure?

N.H. That’s easy, instructing. I find it really satisfying when I can help a rider go faster but at the same time make them safer. Sending someone home with a smile on their face is incredibly rewarding.

N.M. So no more need for speed?  

N.H. For sure. I’m lucky because I get my fix of track riding with the instruction and I definitely never feel like pushing to the max. If was just sitting at home I’d be thinking I could still mix it with the boys but these days are long gone.

N.M. What about the future?

N.H. More of the same so long as I’m in demand. I’m still based in the Isle of Man which is a good place for my kids Holly and Taylor to grow up, plus I love off roading there with good mates, Jonny Rea, Connor Cummins, Gavin Hunt and Callan Cooper. I might move from the Island one day but I’m happy for now.

N.M. Cool, now on to the serious stuff.

N.M. Strictly Come Dancing or X Factor?

N.H. X Factor. I don’t understand dancing, I can’t dance and I don’t want to dance.

N.M. Rhianna or Lady Gaga?

N.H. Rhianna. I don’t know what Lady Gaga is and I don’t like looking at it.

N.M. Rainey or Schwantz?

N.H. Schwantz but I have the utmost respect for Wayne Rainey.

N.M. Fogarty or Bayliss?

N.H. Bayliss, one million percent.

With my five minutes up there was no time for any detailed explanations to that one so Neil bid me a polite farewell before heading down the pit lane with his next pupil. God loves a grafter. 

By Niall Mackenzie