Toni Bou, 37-year-old sports star known as „The King of Trials“ in our country, has one advantage over the Czech kings of cycling and British Formula 1 stars. Within one year, he can be a world champion twice – outdoors and indoors.
Just this weekend, Bou won his 17th crown in the indoor trial at the covered stadium in Madrid. This equals his achievements in the „classic“ form of this sport, giving him an incredible total of 34 world championship titles.
„Each victory has its unique touch, especially when it comes to a title. This year’s season started with complications with the bike, but the team worked hard to improve, and we finished it with a victory,“ said the fresh champion in an interview with the Spanish agency Europa Press.
Trial is a sport that combines physical and mental strength. It’s not just about overcoming obstacles; it’s also important to plan ahead for the demanding course. Despite his many successes, the Spaniard knows that there is always room for improvement.
„I focused more on training. This sport is a battle with oneself, and that’s what I concentrated on. I have achieved more than I could have ever imagined. But a athlete’s ambition is to constantly push boundaries,“ he said.
The native of Piera in Catalonia is not satisfied with his acquired successes and wants to continue his successful career. Although he knows very well that winning cannot last forever.
„Seventeen years of victories, fighting injuries, and solving various problems. All of this was far beyond our imagination. But we are excited about the journey we have taken so far. Maybe I will compete until my forties, maybe even longer. Finding joy in what you do is a challenge, especially when you have had such a long career,“ Bou acknowledged.
„Of course, the joy of victory provides an additional source of motivation. When things go well for you, everything is easier. A long series of successes can sometimes pull you back from giving a 100% performance, but then comes an impulse that leads you further on the path to victory.“
Toni Bou’s journey towards victory has so far stopped at the number 34, in terms of world titles. However, the Repsol Honda team rider certainly hasn’t said his last word yet.
Toni Bou can even tame a motorcycle without a front wheel.
