Contact: Press Room on 01782 678717
Head Office: Autonet Insurance Group, Nile Street, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 2BA
Autonet exclusive interview with former British and World Superbike Champion Neil Hodgson
Here at Autonet Insurance we were given the exciting opportunity to interview former British and World Superbike Champion Neil Hodgson.
Neil started to ride at a young age and worked hard to become a superbike champion. During his 20 year career Neil competed in many biking series whether it was in the UK or America. We dived right in and spoke about his long standing loyalty to Ducati and how it felt becoming a world champion.
Autonet: You started to ride at an early age, were there any influences to make you want to ride?
Neil Hodgson: I started riding when I was 5 years old and racing when I was 8 years old. My dad was well into bikes so I had no choice!
Autonet: When did you realise you wanted to do this professionally?
Neil Hodgson: When I was about 18 years old. I thought there might be a chance to do it as a pro.
Autonet: What do you think you would be doing if you didn’t get into riding?
Neil Hodgson: I was a builder when I left school so I guess I’d still be doing that, I really enjoyed it! Apart from the winter months!
Autonet: In 2000 you entered the Superbike World Championships as a wild card entry and went on to win, how did that feel?
Neil Hodgson: That was the most amazing feeling and to be honest, it was the first time I really thought I could become a world champion.
Autonet: You moved to America for 4 years to compete in their American Superbike Championship (AMA) how did that compare to other biking series?
Neil Hodgson: AMA was very difficult as the top rider was very fast, on good bikes and had lots of track experience. That said I really enjoyed it and have no regrets.
Autonet: If you had to choose would you go back to live in Laguna Beach or stay in the UK?
Neil Hodgson: I’d do winter in Laguna summer in the UK.
Autonet: Did you expect to have the success that you have?
Neil Hodgson: No I never really planned ahead. I just raced week in week out and rode the wheels off my bike every time.
Autonet: You famously racing number 100, did it bring you luck?
Neil Hodgson: YES! I just love that number it’s the coolest ever!
Autonet: You formed a loyal partnership with Ducati and have just returned from Italy, how was that?
Nigel Hodgson: Ducati is like a family to me and Italy is my favourite place to spend time. The food people and style. I just love the place.
Autonet: Your shoulder injury forced you to retire, how much longer do you think you would have competed for?
Neil Hodgson: To be honest I was at the end anyway. Having raced every year from 1983 to 2010! I was over it! I was ready for a change.
Autonet: Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Neil Hodgson: Hopefully riding with my son, he is 4 now and loves bikes. I just want to be able to load the van up and go ride bikes together.
Autonet: You’re an avid Burnley FC supporter do you still attend any games?
Neil Hodgson: I go a couple of times a season. Next year I’m going to both Blackburn games! We hate them!
Autonet: What bike would you rate at the moment?
Neil Hodgson: To be honest I ride so many different ones at the moment with my work with MCN I’d have to say I’ve not been on a bad one for years. That said the 1199 Panigale is the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen!
Autonet: What’s your favourite film?
Neil Hodgson: I love films so that’s a tough one. I really liked Trainspotting, Rita Sue and Bob too, loads really!
Autonet: What’s your favourite holiday destination?
Neil Hodgson: Cape Town
Autonet: Favourite song of all time?
Neil Hodgson: Stone Roses,I am the resurrection.
Autonet: Best advice you have ever been given?
Neil Hodgson: Never give in.
Autonet: How many bikes do you own?
Neil Hodgson: Right now none ha ha
Autonet: What three items would you take on a desert island with you?
Neil Hodgson: My kids, motocross bike and Megan Fox!
Autonet: And finally, what would you say to a young rider looking to follow in your footsteps?
Neil Hodgson: It’s hard! Never give in, and try to enjoy it as much as you can. A happy rider is a fast one!
Autonet: Thanks Neil!
It is safe to say that Neil has achieved so much throughout his career within the biking industry. There is no doubt that he will continue to be a positive influence on future riders in years to come.
Check out Neil’s website http://neilhodgson100.com/ for photos and what he has been up to!
Notes to editor
Autonet was first established in 1998, now with over 14 years of experience within the insurance industry Autonet has gone from strength to strength turning over and annual excess of £80m.