MXP: Next weekend the 2022 Future West MX Series kicks off at Whispering Pines Raceway. You’ve been there a couple of times this year to ride. How is the track doing and what can everyone expect next weekend?
RL: The one thing you can always expect when riding Whispering Pines is the track will be in great condition. They do a really good job with the prep. They have made a few small changes but there will be more before the WCAN and round one of the Triple Crown Series. We at Future West MX are really looking forward to next weekend. We seem to be organized and ready for a big turnout. There hasn’t been a lot of change with our program but we have made a point to allow for decent length motos and have also implemented a three moto Pro-Am format with 20 min mots to help these pros get ready for the west coast swing of the nationals. All in all, we are looking forward to getting back to racing.
MXP: This weekend in Atlanta is the first 250SX East/West race of 2022. Obviously, there are the two points leaders in Christian Craig and Jett Lawrence who must be considered the favourites to win. The weather isn’t looking great right now for Saturday in Atlanta. Who do you think will take the win at Round 14?
RL: The weather could throw a huge curveball into things that’s for sure but to be honest I don’t think we get to see the head-to-head battle between Jett and Christian that we all are hoping for. The way their championships have played out leaves them with a lot to lose and not a whole lot to gain by battling it out for a main event win. We will see what the weather does but honestly, I could see someone like Hampshire or Forkner win as they have nothing to lose and can just focus on race wins.
MXP: For the past couple of years you’ve been getting to enjoy this sport more than ever through the eyes of your son Meston. He appears to love riding and being at the track each weekend. What do you remember about the sport from when you were his age. Was it a love at first sight deal for you as well?
RL: You’re 100% right Palms! I love watching my son ride and enjoy the sport that has given me so much. Meston enjoys riding and is very good at it which also makes it fun to watch him progress without a lot of help from me. Let’s be honest kids don’t want to take advice from their dad but so far we’re doing well. For me, it was love at first sight. I remember being at the track when I was around 4 and always wanting to do it. I would write about it, talk about it, and dream about it. If you ask my wife Randi she says that I’m obsessed with moto and she could be right on that one.
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