This week’s Profile of a Nora Champion is with a double British title winner Gary Birtwhistle who hammered home wins in both the Pro 450 and Twins class of the DTRA promoted Flat Track Nationals in 2022.
What type of sport do you race in?
Flat Track
What bike do you ride?
I race a Husqvarna 450 in the Pro Class and a specially made Royal Enfield 797cc in the Twins Class.
What Championship did you win?
I won the British Pro 450 and Twins championships
What was your toughest race in the championship?
My toughest race was Kings Lynn because I had a big crash with another rider and ended up breaking some ribs. I only had a few weeks to try to recover before racing again and that was tough.
Who was your biggest rival?
My biggest rival was Ferran Satre from Spain
What was your best race on the way to the title?
My best race was probably Redcar, just because the track was prepped perfectly and it was so fun to ride.
How does it feel to be NORA British Champion?
It feels awesome to be British Champion. It’s been 8 years in the making so it has taken a lot to get here.
What are your goals for 2023?
My goals would be to keep finding ways to test myself and improve by searching out new challenges.
Who would you like to thank for their help in 2022?
I’d like to thank John Kay for first stepping up and giving me a bike to race years ago and for standing by me. Royal Enfield and all the UK team for their support and for putting their faith in me. Also Bell and Oakley for their support. And my partner Steph for everything she does.
