BJARNE: MY LAST SGP SEASON

BJARNE: MY LAST SGP SEASON

Wednesday 19th September 2012, 18:43

Danish star Bjarne Pedersen confirmed “it’s definitely my last year in the Grand Prix” as he prepares for the FIM Dansk Metal Nordic SGP in Vojens on Saturday.

The Holstebro legend earned his spot in this year’s World Championship by finishing second in the GP Challenge at Vetlanda in August 2011.

This ended Pedersen’s three-year exile from the competition after he was eliminated at the end of 2008. But the Birmingham No.1 has struggled back in the big time and is 14th in the SGP standings on 49 points.

So the Ryde-born man is keen to focus on his club commitments in 2013 and is looking forward to spending more time with his family.

"I’ve given it a try, but I’ve just found out that there are some things in my life that are more important than being away every second weekend."

- Bjarne Pedersen

He said: “Last year there was a question mark in my head – do I want the Grand Prix again or not? I’ve given it a try, but I’ve just found out that there are some things in my life that are more important than being away every second weekend.

“It’s definitely my last year in the Grand Prix. Next year, all my focus will be on league meetings.

“It’s not because I want to step down – definitely not. But I just want to put 110 percent focus into my league meetings now. When there are no league meetings, I will enjoy my time with my family.”

He added: “I expected the Grand Prix to be hard and it is very hard. But I haven’t enjoyed it and I’d rather be honest and say how I’m feeling. The most important thing is to do what I feel is the right thing for myself, and that’s to do league meetings.”

Pedersen’s league form across Europe has been inconsistent this term, particularly in the British Elite League with Birmingham. But he is confident of getting things back on track without the pressure of World Championship racing to worry about.

He said: “This year hasn’t been the best for me, but I think you will see a different rider next season. I’m sure I can add something on to my average.

“There have been a lot of other factors behind why I’ve struggled and I don’t really want to get into it now. The season is nearly over now and I know what changes need to be made afterwards.”

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