It was with great interest I recently heard about the Hannaford family handing over a brand new Beta Factory 250 to young Zac Mularczyk.
Very rarely has an individual done this. 100% sponsorship even for the top riders in trials is unheard of in Australia. In road racing Jack Waters was a legend for doing this also. Many would remember him for sponsoring Graham Geddes who raced internationally with his support also.
I wanted to share some insight into the program and the selection criteria. There must be others of us in the trials community that have had decades of enjoyment and support that could do similar with a young rider, individually, form a syndicate or contact an importer to assist.
The following are some questions and answers from both Matt Hannaford and Zac Mularczyk, to hopefully give everyone an understanding of the Hannaford Family Trials Scholarship on offer to a deserving young trials rider.
Matt Hannaford interview
Matt, you were a successful junior / youth trials rider who then went on to pave a name for yourself in yachting I have heard?
Yes Scott I rode trials up to 20 years of age and had success at state and national level. I also have been lucky enough to sail with and against some of the best sailors in Australia and the world. Competing in performance, one design and ocean racing. They are both great sport at all levels, great friends and good times.
What bought you back to trials?
It's a great family based sport, with great disciplines & life skills. Travel, clubs, people, self challenging and I also love the smell of race fuel...
Where did the scholarship concept come from?
Its good to be able to put something back into a great sport. I would like to help some young people be the best individual they can be not just in the sport but also in business, families and life in general.
What are you looking for in a successful applicant?
Great club & trials community person, who loves his sport & people around him, great with helping others.
What will the student receive?
New bike at their disposal,friends, mateship, coaching and support to help them aim as high as they wish to try.
Zac has been the lucky guy chosen for the first year. Why Zac?
Zac is a great young man, loves his bike riding, club, and always happy to be around. I hope Zac's time will put him in good stead to help me with the next young scholars. His riding skills are good and improving all the time, he will be a great role model to trials in general.
Are you only going to use Beta's?
I have a long-standing friendship with Dave Ryan who supported me as a young fella competing in trials. Given that Dave is the local importer it makes sense to support him and Beta is a great brand after all.
What happens with the bike at the end of the season?
The opportunity will be given to the current rider to purchase the bike outright at trade value. Alternatively Dave has offered for it to be traded in for the next recipient’s bike.
It's a great concept that you must be very proud of?
Well it's fantastic to see the young up and coming riders embracing the sport so enthusiastically and it's also very humbling to be receiving the support and recognition from the older statesmen who were there to help me when I was young and are very encouraging of the Hannaford Family Trials Scholarship.
Zac Mularczyk interview:
What did you think when Matt approached and offered you the scholarship Zac?
Firstly I was shocked as opportunities done come up often, if ever in the Australian scene. I didn't know what to think of it. Most of what Matt had proposed to me had gone in one ear and out the other! Trials in Australia is quite small and not many people do or will ever get an opportunity like Matt has given me.
What comes with the scholarship?
The use of a bike for a full trials season and an added bonus I can buy it at the end of the season at a reduced price. Matt will be my mentor for the year which will include not only riding but also help keep me on track, on and off the bike! I will also have more training opportunities with expert riders and the International riders that are running courses.
What is expected of you?
I have to maintain the bike and keep it at a high standard. Improve my fitness and keep a regular exercise program. Look out for and help others. Generally take care of myself and the bike.
How has the scholarship helped you?
The scholarship has helped me realise that I have potential in the sport. Before this I was unsure of my standings but now I do feel like I have a path to follow. Financially it has been a huge support as I needed to buy a new bike for 2014/2015 season. Now I can prepare my bike for sale. I am also enjoying being part of a team with Matt and his family as this also provides personal support. I am now concentrating on developing my riding and also helping others with their training.
Why do you like trials?
Its good fun!! It is competitive but unlike road racing and motocross etc it is not rivaling each other. It has more friendship I think, with the riders and their families.
How did you start riding?
On my 4th birthday mum and dad gave me my first bike which was a PeeWee 50. Its still at home! I love it! Started riding at the park across the road and then we joined OMCC Trials Club. I rode my first trial when I was 10, on a TY80.
What is your advice to a young Australian rider that would like to be the next person to be chosen?
Just try their hardest and put in the extra effort that’s needed. Most of all you have to have fun doing it, that's why I ride.