Interview: Moto Martin Ostick

How long have you been doing this kind of work and how long for ATZ? You could share previous experience here?

I have been involved in this type of work for about 9 years as a civilian and a further 11 years as a Police Officer. I have been involved in Police Motorcycle escort work since 2003 and later became a Police Motorcycle instructor. In 2012 I was sent to work the Met police SEG team in London where I completed a Police VIPEX instructors course. I returned to Manchester where I re-trained the whole of the GMP Motorcycle team to VIPEX escort standard so they could assist with the Olympic games. I was lead over a team from GMP when the Tour de France came to this country, initially having responsibility to escort the Prime Minister throughout the Competition. I was the Lead Motorcyclist in most escort work from GMP, being both a National car convoy commander and Motorcycle escort easyrider. When I retired from the Police in 2017 I set up my own company teaching Ex Military Convoy and car escort security driving and had the course certified by RoSPA. I have worked for ATZ since its inception and have enjoyed both the new and old events. 

Highlights of working with ATZ?

My favourites areThe London Triathlon (Challenge London) and Leeds Triathlon. The Commonwealth Games were brilliant, and of course, I enjoy the journey to and the events in Scotland. I always enjoy the events that I worked on previously as a Police Officer as I know the area so well such as Manchester and the Iron Man In Bolton. As I used to be a Sergeant before retiring, I enjoy being in charge and being grumpy.

Describe a typical day of a moto working on an event

A typical day would be a very early start, rushing about, and then waiting for ages for the event to start!

What's your favourite aspect of the job? 

The favourite aspect of the job for me is helping competitors to have a good event and assisting them to make the very best of their day. This can including clapping them on, helping to fix their bikes or urgent medical assistance. Its very rewarding.

What's your day job?

I am presently employed by Greater Manchester Police as a Collision Investigator.

What's one thing people might not know about you?

I died of a heart attack out on my mountain bike in 2007 for 15 minutes. Fully recovered now with strangely, no heart damage.

Favourite post-event meal and drink?

Curry and beer please.

Dream bike?

Bianchi Oltre pro (pedal) New BMW K1600GT (motor)

Any funny anecdotes or stories from events/working with the team?

Lots but none that can be mentioned here!