Gjelsten sets aside retirement rumours

Dubai: Five-time World Class One Powerboat Champion Bjorn Rune Gjelsten will decide on his plans to retire only after the Dubai Grand Prix - the eighth and final round of the 2007 WPPA Class One World Powerboat Championship.

"I have not yet decided what I want to do in the future," Gjelsten told Gulf News before going out for his first official practice session at the Mina Seyahi yesterday. There have been rumours in recent times that the five-time world champion might not continue Class One racing from next season.

No hurry

"This is a decision I will have to take after sitting and discussing with my wife [Solveig]. I do not want to be in a hurry, so I will keep this only after the race on Saturday," he said. Gjelsten grew up as a child within a very competitive but supportive environment.

His father has always been a highly focused individual and his approach to life has had a profound influence on the Norwegian as he has managed five world titles in nine seasons of racing.

Though aged 76, Gjelsten's father still skies competitively in Norway.

"My retirement plans have nothing negative about it. I want to sit back and spend time looking at the bigger picture and see where Class One racing stands for me," Gjelsten said.

"I am definitely getting old and I need to make sure I am motivated enough to compete next season.

"Competing in a world championship takes a lot out of person including time and effort. I need to reassess my priorities."