MY 20-YEAR ODYSSEY WITH HONDA
A JOURNEY OF HUMBLE OPPORTUNITIES
In 1986, when Richard Branson was conquering the Atlantic aboard the 72ft powerboat Virgin Challenger II, little did I know that a different kind of journey was unfolding for me. It was the same year when my story with Honda began as I straddled a Honda CR80 dirtbike, ready to take on the world.
Sometimes it’s surprising how our love for brands and sports teams is shaped by our admiration for the heroes we look up to. Interestingly, one of my biggest rivals now, CDR Yamaha’s Craig Dack, was one of my childhood idols. Back in 1986, he was out there winning on Honda motocross bikes and he was the rider I looked up to.
The early days of my racing career were riddled with challenges — injuries and financial struggles. My father, a taxi driver, made monumental sacrifices to ensure that my brothers — David and Michael — and I had the chance to pursue our racing dreams. Amid the difficulties, I managed to secure some solid positions in state championships, even clinching a few overall round victories.
Two cherished memories stand out: winning a state senior round in 1996 at Shepparton against national podium riders like Jye Harvey, Leon Bonderenko and
Brent Hewitt; and then triumphing on one of my favourite Melbourne tracks under the iconic Westgate Bridge, racing against champions Steven Andrews and Lee Masters. The turning point arrived in 2003, as Honda Australia extended an opportunity that would redefine my path. Fast forward two decades and I find myself still steering the ship as the captain of the Honda Australia racing team. Even now, I often pinch myself to believe it. The privilege of collaborating with one of the world’s most esteemed and renowned brands humbles me every single day.
My affinity for Honda runs deep. In 1989, after saving up from after-school jobs for two-and-a-half years, I was all set to buy a new bike. Handing over the hard-earned money to my father, I eagerly anticipated the unveiling, only to be met with a Kawasaki. The dealer had offered a larger discount on the Kawasaki, my father explained. Undeterred, I eventually sold the Kawasaki, pooling the proceeds to acquire a used 1988 Honda CR 80 — a bike that had previously belonged to Luke Urek’s brother, Adam.
Of the past 38 years, a staggering 34 have been spent astride Honda machines, and the foreseeable future promises no alteration to this incredible partnership. Each victory and setback fuels my determination to reach the next milestone.
People often ask about my proudest accomplishment, and my response remains unchanged. Each triumph holds equal significance. Every achievement is born from challenges, resilience and overcoming hardships, for no victory materialises without navigating failures. And it’s those failures that arise from daring to achieve the extraordinary.
When pressed for the pivotal moments that shaped my presence in the sport, I recount a series of impactful milestones. In 2003, I provided assistance to a rider who lacked support — Robbie Maddison. That season, marked by challenges, saw me extending my help to multiple riders. Furthermore, I was an early advocate for freestyle motocross (FMX) riders, recognising its potential to attract new audiences and sponsors. I lent my support to FMX pioneer Robbi Felli and aided Matt Moss in the 85cc class when Matt found himself without a ride or support.
A standout among my achievements was my sole foray into Superbikes. When Bryan Starring was left without a seat in the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), I formed a team that not only contested, but triumphed in the championship — a victory that propelled Bryan to a MotoGP career with a satellite Honda team.
Racing in the United States with my own team, supported by the esteemed American Honda, was a challenge I willingly embraced. This opportunity was a dream for me and so far it has exceeded my expectations and has provided opportunities for Australian and international racers, showcasing our competitiveness and success. In our second year, we celebrated a remarkable achievement: a podium finish in the premier 450 class, achieved by my long-time friend and five-time Australian champion, Justin Brayton. And in this, our fourth year, we’re immensely proud to have secured a significant victory and clinched third place overall in the coveted 250 championship, thanks to the exceptional efforts of Max Anstie.
Yet, despite these accomplishments, I remain focused on the horizon. While the past serves as a reminder of our capabilities and aids in improving our tomorrows, it’s crucial not to dwell there. The future demands our preparedness to face whatever challenges it throws our way — this is how we retain humility. Victories aren’t guaranteed, and neither is job security, and I hold deep respect for this reality.
A new chapter is on the horizon for Honda and me as a fresh long-term contract cements our partnership. Of all my achievements, I am particularly proud of this relationship.
As my father reads this article, he’ll understand the significance of my association with Honda. It’s one of the proudest accomplishments of my life. The weight of this partnership resonates deeply with my father; he recognises Honda’s history and holds a special place in his heart for Wayne Gardner, Daryl Beattie and Mick Doohan. Witnessing my dad’s pride in my role at Honda is incredibly precious to me.
In a career spanning two decades, my journey alongside Honda reflects dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the sport I love. — Yarrive Konsky