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Episode Summary:

Before MotoGP was mainstream in Australia, before Phillip Island became iconic, Wayne Gardner was laying the foundation. In this episode, Ian Hawkins sits down with Australia’s first 500cc World Champion to unpack a journey that goes far beyond racing. From modifying push bikes as a 13-year-old in Wollongong to lining up in races he wasn’t even entered in; Gardner shares the raw, unfiltered path of a kid who backed himself before anyone else did. His story is one of relentless belief, creative problem-solving, and the courage to step into opportunities before feeling ready

The conversation goes deeper into the moments that defined his legacy; winning the 1987 World Championship under pressure, building momentum for motorcycle racing in Australia, and playing a pivotal role in bringing the Australian Grand Prix to Phillip Island. Gardner also opens up on the realities of elite sport; danger, sacrifice, mental preparation, and the balance between confidence and humility. This isn’t just a story about speed or success; it’s about backing yourself, embracing risk, and building something that lasts long after the finish line.

About the Guest:

Wayne Michael Gardner

Wayne Gardner is better known for becoming Australia’s first 500cc motorcycle world champion in 1987. Wayne started out as an apprentice steelworker apprentice from Wollongong and quickly decided his path was elsewhere leading him on a life journey with motorcycle racing and many businesses.

Wayne M Gardner has been living in Monaco for 40yrs now after winning the World Championship in 1987 and 2nd place in 1986 / 1988

Wayne also owned and raced Touring cars in Australia and Japan in the Japan GT Championship for Toyota with wins in Japan and Australia.

Also, Wayne had a successes business as a wholesaler to the motorcycle industry until it was sold in 2013.

Wayne has completed many property developments in Australia with the latest being a $53m complex of 87 office warehouses of which he retains 30 units which are under lease and managed by Pacland Holdings.

Wayne has developed many property developments which include houses, Apartment refits , Multi Apartment Blocks , Industrial developments , commercial shops in Australia and currently a large Chateau / house development in Sth France currently under construction and due to be finished in 2026.

He also spends his time attending many motorcycle events worldwide and does public speaking events and services for clients.

Wayne M Gardner has recently launched an Ebike business in Monaco which he has designed and developed over the past 4yrs called GARDNER87.com

My passion for Ebikes started in 1972 at the age of 13yrs old as developed a bicycle with suspension from his motorcycle onto his bicycle that so he could make jumps which was the first bike with suspension in Australia and now he has followed this path with the release of GARDNER87.com Brand of Ebikes in Europe but sells world wide under the Brand GARDNER87.com

Links:/

Company Website: https://www.gardner87.com/

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Gardner

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theGardner87/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegardner87/

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

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#267 – Wayne Gardner | Legacy, Instinct & Backing Yourself