Meet the Riders Night - Robert Ksiezak
(Posted 06/03/08)

For possibly the first time, Michael was left speechless as Robert began his interview in Polish!

Reverting back to English, Robert said he had not a bad winter with a few meetings but was mostly taking it easy and getting prepared for the new season.

His racing over the winter was not so much about the results but more about getting track time and laps under his belt. The Australian Championships were a great learning experience for him, he blew a few engines but finished the series well. Occasionally beating one of the 'big' guys made him feel good and he is confident for the start of the season and a better rider from riding in it.

This year is very important for him and he wants to establish himself as a heat leader and avoid the injuries that plagued him last year. He has been here for long enough now and needs to start making his mark.

He has signed for a Polish club squad but in reality he is unlikely to ride for them unless there is a fixture that does not clash with Glasgow's as his commitment is to Glasgow this year. He will however be able to go over and practice on the track. last years knocks affected him badly.

Although usually nothing major he felt he was injured almost all season and something was always niggling away, added to the three times he suffered concussion.

The Australian U-21's went well for him although he should have finished second had he not blown his engine in the final. It was good to beat Chris Holder though in the heats as he was immense all winter. His third place means he will be in the World U-21's again although he does not yet know where he will be drawn - rounds are in Germany, Slovakia, Finland and Poland. It would be great to have a World U 21 final on his speedway CV but there are a lot of good riders involved and even getting through to the finals will be very tough.

He has probably seen more of Josh Grajczonek on track than anyone else at Glasgow because of the Australian Championships and thinks he is a good little rider who should do a job but will probably need time to settle.

As one of the more experienced riders this year he will also be there to help Josh and Mitchell out any time they ask. He feels the Tigers team all have the ability to up their averages and it will be important to work together.