MICHAEL BLEEKEMOLEN, FORMER RACING DRIVER

For some people it becomes clear early on what their path in life will be. Former racing driver Michael Bleekemolen is an example. As a young boy he came into contact with racing and Zandvoort was his second home. During his career, Michael served as a mentor to several people. He himself had a rather controversial mentor.

For some people it is clear early on what their life path will be. Former driver Michael Bleekemolen is an example of this. As a young boy he came into contact with racing and Zandvoort was his second home. During his career, Michael has been a wheelbarrow for several people. He himself had a rather controversial wheelbarrow. Text: Mical Joseph
Image: Race Planet

What was your very first job?

“Some children dream of becoming a pilot or astronaut, I knew I was going to become a racing driver when I grew up. At a young age I helped the drivers with various jobs, that was my side job. Then I started racing myself and one thing led to another. Being a racing driver has also made me a good entrepreneur. I notice that after this career, most people become good entrepreneurs with a fairly stable life. Being a driver involves discipline.”

What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?

“Above all, stay realistic. Focusing on a goal is good, but I believe it should be achievable. So many ideas and concepts, but the execution and actual delivery is also important. I am currently working on an indoor beach around Amsterdam. The first indoor beach was in Miyazaki, Japan. In Berlin there is also a successful similar beach. The indoor concept will include a luxury resort and high-end restaurants. With this plan I have to continuously focus and see what is feasible.” Michael Bleekemolen with his two sons Sebastiaan and Jeroen.

Who was your wheelbarrow?

“My wheelbarrow is without a doubt the controversial Tonio Hildebrand. A racing driver who had 'business' everywhere. Tonio was my manager at the time, together with Toine Hezemans. Hildebrand was good friends with Prince Bernhard and took me under his wing. In addition to her love for racing, Hildebrand was known for being controversial, womaniser, but also as a Burgundian.”

What is your greatest passion in your profession?

“I am happy when I can make people happy. With the karting tracks and the 13.000 customers we welcome to the Zandvoort Circuit, I make customers happy every day. Racing enthusiasts who enjoy the shared passion.”

Have you been a wheelbarrow for someone?

“I have been a wheelbarrow for many and always give advice where necessary. Because the Netherlands is not really a racing country at the moment, being a 'mentor' is on the back burner for me. I have also been there for my sons on many occasions.”

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But that will change from next year with the arrival of Formula 1, right?

“That may well be the case, from next year I expect a wave of popularity for racing. We are of course also more on the map thanks to Max Verstappen and especially now that the Grand Prix is ​​returning to Circuit Zandvoort for at least three years.”