Valentin Dardillat took part in the fourth round of the French Jet Ski Champioship last weekend in Vernon. His main objective during this race was to prepare for the forthcoming Jetcross World Cup, held from July 24 to 26 in Doncaster. Despite a forced return to a two stroke jet, it took him little time to adjust and Valentin put in an excellent performance by getting two second places and a victory. Valentin showed up with his three-cylinder two stroke for this race I was back with the jet I was using last year with the two stroke engine, different chassis, and a different way of handling. The switch was decided at the last minute and I had to rediscovered everything quickly! In three races I took the ' holeshot' against Jeremy Poret but twice he managed to pass me back. However, I won the last race. I felt it was better to try it. I have not changed sponsor; Drop Zone remains my partner. But the challenge of adapting to my four stroke jet had become too time consuming and it was beginning to have an impact on my results and my season. We made a unanimous decision to work on the Belassi jet instead, which is an excellent base to get a sufficiently competitive jet this season and to target the top spot in 2016. During the weekend I had no real plans either way but I was pleased to be able to fight against Jeremy Poret, who is currently the best French jet rider in the world. I do not want to start speculating about my future, but it's important to be confident and it makes a difference to my performance. I still have ten days to prepare for the next challenge - the race in Doncaster. I think that despite the short time available I can have all I need to fight at the forefront. We will say that I am leaving after riding with a lot of speed this weekend, but I have still not been at 100%. Doncaster is a World Championship event where I can gauge my performance against the best in the world. I confess that the first part of my season has left me hungry for more! I really want to do battle with this jet that I am more familiar with. We'll see the outcome, but one thing is sure - I have the bit between my teeth.
