Alessi's living a Super' dream
By TMX Archives on 11th Sep 08
A bona-fide US racing superstar will take centre stage at the forthcoming opening round of the British Supercross Championship when factory Suzuki star Mike Alessi lines-up at Sheffields' Hallam Arena on October 25. Already a seasoned and popular visitor to Europe, the former record amateur champ and double AMA motocross series runner-up will make his return to racing at the event following a horrific accident at the Red Bud round of the AMA Nationals, and will be joined by brother Jeff and a strong line-up of international talent as the long running series kicks-off at its longest standing venue.
Prior to his reurn to action and visit to the UK, T+MX News caught up with the young American for a quick chat.
T+MX: As a factory star you are living the dream that many young riders around the world would like to live. Is the experience what you expected and are there any surprises you were not expecting that come with the job?
Alessi: As a factory rider I think I expected everything I have experienced. I have been racing in a professional atmosphere since I was 5 and coming up as a star I have always known people look up to me and I really appreciate everyone that does. The one thing I think I didn't really expect was the amount of testing that goes into the preparation for supercross, it's unbelievable the hours we put in.
T+MX: Since your last trip to the UK you have gone right to the top of the US racing scene replacing the retired Ricky Carmichael on the Rockstar Makita Suzuki Team. Was replacing Ricky a lot of extra pressure to handle, how did you deal with that situation?
Alessi: Replacing Ricky Carmichael is a really hard task. I do not think anyone can replace him or his achievements. I do feel coming on to the Rockstar Makita Suzuki team was a really good move for me as a rider. i do not feel any added pressure. Rockstar Makita Suzuki makes it feel like family.
T+MX: Last year at Sheffield your brother Jeff held up the family honour by taking the win against Mike Brown. How important has it been for you to have your brother competing alongside you throughout your racing career?
Alessi: Jeff is a fantastic supercross rider, he has come a long way and he's really impressed this season. I have nothing but respect for him after everything he has been through and with him there with me I feel someone always has my back at the races.
T+MX: Sheffield is well known for its enthusiastic and loud fans and their close proximity to the track. Is that what brings you back this year or is it just the fish and chips?
Alessi: I loved competing at Sheffield in the past. The fans are the best there are. When you are racing and you hear them yelling at you it makes you want to push harder and put on a great show. I do have to say that the fish and chips are really good as well.
T+MX: With possibly Stewart and Reed opting for a Supercross only deal next year as McGrath did in the past do you think the combined indoor and outdoor schedule has become too demanding for US pro riders?
Alessi: For me I do not feel the combined indoor/ outdoor schedule has become too demanding. I feel this is our job as professionals. I look forward to the supercross season when the outdoor season is over as much as I look forward to the outdoor season when SX is done.
T+MX: Your brother and you have been very accessible to the fans during past visits to British Supercross events including signing autographs and chatting to the fans and younger riders. Do the fans in the US get the same kind of access?
Alessi: My brother Jeff and I try our hardest to give the fans as much of our time as possible anywhere we go. i feel they come out and support us and we should do the same. i think it is important to let your fans know you appreciate them being there.
T+MX: Finally, do you have a message for your British fans?
Alessi: I'm looking forward to coming to Sheffield and putting on a great show. I hope to see everyone at the races. We will be holding a signing session at Sheffield so come by and say hi, we would love to see you all there.
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