Oskar Paluch: I feel much better on the motorcycle

The upcoming PGE Ekstraliga season is not only a time of competition for young riders but also of intense preparations. Oskar Paluch, a rider for GEZET STAL Gorzów, shared his impressions of the winter preparations, his assessment of his form, and his thoughts on the role his father, Piotr Paluch, plays in his development in an interview with ekstraliga.pl.

• Oskar Paluch spent the winter with intensive training, focusing on strength exercises, running, swimming, and cycling.
• The cooperation with his father is fundamental for Oskar. My father is truly a key figure in the team. I have a relatively young team, so his experience is indispensable.
• The young rider admitted that his idol is Bartosz Zmarzlik.
• Follow our official social media profiles

Mikołaj Lemieszek (ekstraliga.pl): How did your winter preparations go? What did you focus on the most? Has anything changed compared to last season?

Oskar Paluch (GEZET STAL Gorzów): Preparations were intense, I had a lot of training sessions. I did strength training twice a week and, besides that, did a lot of cycling, used a trainer, ran, and practiced gymnastics. There was really a lot of it. I feel very well-prepared for the season, and the preparations are still ongoing. I still go cycling, running, swimming, so it’s a process that’s constantly ongoing.

How do you assess your form before the season? How do you feel after the first laps on the track? Is it better than last year?

I think I feel definitely better. For sure, I have greater freedom in riding and better control over the motorcycle. I definitely feel an improvement compared to last season. But really, it’s the first sparrings and competitions that will show what my form will look like.

I saw that the first corner by the curb causes difficulties. Andžejs Lebedevs mentioned shadows and a somewhat frozen track. How do you feel about it?

Yes, indeed, this part of the track was frozen, especially at lower temperatures. Now, as it’s warmer, the track is starting to thaw, but there are still places where ruts are forming, so you have to be careful. It requires more attention.

Do you have anyone in the team you particularly get along with, who helps you choose gear ratios or gives advice on bike setup?

I don’t have a specific person that I get along particularly well with. We all agree greatly with each other on the team. Everybody talks, shares experiences. The atmosphere is really positive, and the collaboration is going very well.

How do you assess the specificity of the track in Gorzów? What do you like and dislike about this track?

The Gorzów track is very technical. I think if someone masters it well and knows the right gear ratios and paths, it will be easier for them. Personally, I like training on such tracks because I can develop my skills, and it will surely bring positive results in the future. I don’t have anything that I particularly dislike. I try to look at the track positively and learn from tougher moments.

What role does your father, Piotr Paluch, play in your development?

My dad is really a key figure in the team. He’s like a good spirit, always offering advice. He has experience, so his cool head is essential, especially in a young team. He times, helps with bike settings, and constantly advises. It’s very important to have someone like that to always guide and support you.

Do you think it’s harder for younger riders in the PGE Ekstraliga to break through today than before?

It’s a difficult question because I started my career relatively recently. I think young riders have an opportunity to develop today because the U24 position gives them a chance to continue riding, gaining experience, and improving their results. On the other hand, there’s a lot of pressure – television, media, everything is more professional, and not everyone can handle all of that. Over time, I think younger generations can take advantage of this opportunity, but the pressure is certainly greater than before.

Do you have any speedway idols you look up to?

Definitely. My idol is Bartosz Zmarzlik. When I was younger, I even had the same bikes as him. Now I’m starting to deviate a bit, but the blue color of the bike still accompanies me. In terms of riding and attack style, I admire him a lot. Although our builds are quite different, his riding style has always impressed me.

What are your goals for the coming years? What are your dreams for the future?

My goals are to continuously develop, and to have a higher average in the PGE Ekstraliga. But there are also dreams that I prefer to keep to myself because, you know, after revealing them things might turn out differently. Of course, one of the main goals is to maintain a high level to keep moving forward.

What can I wish you for the upcoming season?

First and foremost, health. That’s the most important. If I’m healthy, everything else will come on its own. And of course, as many threes as possible, because that’s the best way to achieve good results.