Imagine you have planned to go to the north of the Netherlands as a simple spectator for the Motul TT Assen, eighth round of the FIM MotoGP World Championship, but just a few days before the event you are told that you have been selected as the Grand Prix’s Motul Superfan! How would you react to the customized program that Motul and the circuit put together for you? There was only one Motul TT Assen Superfan, just as there could be only one winner at the end of the race ...
In fact, our Superfan Gerard Fenneman, a 61-year-old Dutchman, took his son with him, and for good reason. It was Guido, 18, who entered his dad in the competition launched by the international lubricants specialists who were title sponsors of the GP. "We had Paddock Passes for two days, with access to Motul VIP hospitality and the Motul suite," says Gerard. "We were able to tour the paddock with the Tech 3 team as well as the press room, and do a lap of the circuit in the official safety car, a BMW M4. To be on the starting grid and be a part of the practices and race from the pits was like living a dream. There were even last minute surprises like a meeting with Arjan Bos, the Circuit Director. We were bombarded by dozens of photographers! I especially enjoyed being able to share these unique moments with my son Guido who was at his 10th TT Assen. Plus I will never forget the trophy that I awarded to the winning team representative at the Moto3 podium ceremony. "
Gerard attended the Dutch round of the World Moto Speed Championship for the first time in 1969, 46 years ago. Now, for the record, his favourite rider is Valentino Rossi on the No. 46. To make this weekend even more special, it was necessary that the Italian won the race ... and he obliged!
"After the third free practice session, Guido was able to hold Valentino’s helmet for a photo," recalls Gerard. "As you can imagine, we were both extremely touched! The noise of the engines is, for me, like music. I have many fond memories of races that I attended at this fabulous circuit. During the 1977 edition of the "Dutch TT" for example, Wil Hartog became the first Dutchman to win a Grand Prix 500 at his home race. As a spectator, I love the Geert Timmer corner which is just before the finish line and you sometimes see some impressive overtaking there, especially on the last lap!" The 2015 Motul TT Assen Superfan was really a super fan!
