Q&A: Superbike rider Ronan Quarmby

Ronan Quarmby is fast becoming one of the most exciting superbike riders in the world. Recently the 21-year-old became the first South African to get a podium finish in the SuperSport Championship.

What is it like flying around a circuit at a million miles per hour? 
Well it's hard to explain the feeling of racing at 300km/h around a circuit. To be honest there is not much going through my mind the moment I jump on to the bike, as every reaction on the bike is natural and comes with experience, so I don't need to be thinking about where I am going to brake or get on the throttle as it's all done in my subconscious.

Who do you admire the most in your sport and why?
I would have to say Carlos Checa in the superbike category is definitely one of my idols. He is so unpredictable and reminds me of myself.

How tough is it to get into the sport?
Racing a bike is not the hardest part, it's everything that builds up to that moment. I started racing six years back on a 125cc and was fortunate enough to pursue the International Championship five years down the line with only my dad’s help financially. Sponsors do not approach you even if you win a championship locally. The only time a sponsor will approach you is when you are winning races on the international stage.

Did you think your career was over when you injured your leg?
When my doctor told me that it would be the last time on a superbike I was devastated… seven months down the line I had won the 2010 South African National Championship with a plate in my leg and a few missed rounds!

What is next for Ronan Quarmby?
I would love to get on to a world superbike in the year 2013 but my Dad reckons another year in the World Supersport Championship and I could win it. But definitely keep an eye out for a film in the near future!