1ST Attempt: Reflecting on the Red Bull Rookies Selection

This past week was a whirlwind of emotions! After an unexpected email from the Red Bull Rookies Cup team. We were off to Guadix to test our luck but to most importantly soak it all in and just learn from the best, after all im riding a bike Ive never rode and im up against the best in the world! Getting invited to this event made me the first ever Lithuanian to make it to a selection event and the first Lithuanian rider ont he road to MOTO GP!

The journey began with a flight to Alicante, where we picked up our rental car and had a long 3 hour drive to where we were staying for the nest few days. The feeling I got once stepping out in that spanish sun and realising what the next few days will bring, the nerves were naturally there but I was just eager to get riding – it was surreal to be immersed in an environment full of like minded people and some of the best riders there is! I knew everyone had an equal shot at it, and I was ready to give it my all. The night before the selection was filled with nervous excitement. I could barely sleep, but I channeled that energy into visualizing success on the track.

The next morning, I was straight out of bed. Grabbed a quick breakfast, and it was time to hit the road and head to the circuit. I watched some of the earlier sessions, observing the lines and pace of the faster riders. It was incredibly motivating. Finally, it was my turn. We warmed up, got our gear on, and received a quick briefing from one of the coaches. Then, it was out onto the track! The bike felt totally different to what Ive ridden at first, but I quickly pushed that aside and focused on finding my rhythm. By the Evening Session I felt natural on the bike and started to chip away more and more each lap feeling great with the bike. Unfortunately we only had 2 sessions so it was difficult to fully get used to everything but I carried on trying my best.

The session after lunch was very good for me as I dropped a few seconds but I just wasnt quite there yet with my times. But I took the positives and just soaked it all in and enjoyed every moment of this life changing experience. Then it was tiem to see who made it into the final day and the wait for the results was agonizing. As the coaches began calling out names, my stomach churned with anticipation. I knew I didnt really have a chance as I was against BTC and ETC front runners that day so I wasnt hugely dissapointed.

My dad and I retreated to the car, where we reflected on the past few days and I just knew how truly grateful and lucky I am to be here. I knew I still need alot more work to be able to compete with the best kids in the world. I watched from various points of the track and could see what they were doing better. These guys know what they are looking for and they knew I wasn't ready. Now, it's time to head home, refocus, and train harder than ever. I'm determined to come back stronger and faster next year. I am goign to give it my all this Winter and hope an opportunity arrises to see what next season holds for me! But im sure to be back and better for next time!