How I got started:

I started riding for fun at my house and some local tracks. As I became a more competent rider I began seeking better competition at places such as Loretta Lynns qualifiers, Mini Os, Branson Amateur Nationals, Red Bud, Aonia Pass, Podium1, Log Road, Dutch Sport Park, Baja MX, Monster Mountain and Motoland. I still love riding and I play ride quite a bit, but I enjoy competition as well.

I have been racing more than ever since 2006. However, I still practice more than I race because practice is the most important aspect of motocross just as it is in any other sport. There is no substitute for well-focused riding time. Plus I just enjoy riding my bike...so I do it as much as possible! ;)

Goals for the Future:

My short-term goal is to do well at various amateur nationals and Loretta Lynn's regional qualifiers. In addition, I also plan to continue racing against good competition because it is more rewarding to compete at races with difficult competition. Although doing well at regionals and amateur nationals is my immediate goal; I eventually want to obtain a "pro" license and test my skills against the best racers and riders. Aern't racers and riders the same thing? No, thats a small but important thing to realize...;)

I don't know how far I will progress in racing. I started racing a little later than my competitors, but so far I have made steady and rather quick progress to the front of the B class. My increased training and practice regimen is working well and I plan on improving as much as possible in the future.

What inspires you to compete?

I enjoy the competition, learning new tracks and learning new techniques.

Why do you like this sport?

I like motocross because its fun and I get to ride at many different tracks on various terrain. I also love the feeling of being "one" with the bike as much as possible and riding to my potential.

Describe your style...

I am a technical and smooth rider. I have studied videos of several professional riders and learned many things that help me to be a smoother, faster, and safer rider. I look up to Chad Reed most for his technique, fluidity and style.

Do you train? What does your schedule look like?

I ride as much as I can, usually 2-4 days per week when the weather is nice. When the weather is bad I ride less. For example, in the winter I ride outdoors when I am able as well as go to indoor tracks as much as possible. I also train off of the bike by riding a stationary bike, lifting weights, unicycling, bicycling, and doing various stretches. The past couple years I have been fortunate enough to spend a little time training in Kentucky, Georgia and Alabama during the winter too.

Employment / Experience Summary

I have worked at Phoenix Sport Cycle and Action Motor Sports, a Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki dealer located in Lafayette, Indiana. I sell parts and accessories most of the time. Sometimes I assist with sales of motorcycles. In addition, I have worked as a substitute teacher. I would love to stay involved in the motorcycle / motocross industry in the future. However, if that does not work out I plan on attending Purdue University to become a professional airline pilot, it has been a dream of mine for years. Plus I will have plenty of time to ride as a pilot........  :)

Some of my accomplishments:

• Mini Olympics MX/SX
• Loretta Lynn Qualifiers
• Branson Amateur MX Nationals
• race wins
• racing against good competition on a regular basis

I have had some good finishes. However, I have more potential and I am going to try my hardest to achieve that potential. My speed and ability on the bike are good and always improving. However, I learned racing is much more than having speed and ability.

My preparation for the future is much better and more focused than in the past. It is already starting to pay off. You can keep up on my latest  happenings on my Sponsorhouse Blog.  

What injuries have I had?

I have been fortunate to not have too many injuries. Injuries 1,2,3 are all from the same stupid crash a couple months after I got my first dirtbike. It was really disheartening to have my most serious injury ever right when I got my 1st bike. I was really bummed out from that injury because I had wanted a dirtbike for so long and was happy to finally have one. Then I had my most serious injury to date! I was only going maybe 5mph and just twisted my leg wrong! It was ridiculous and it sucked really bad. My total injuries are as follows:

• 1.  Broken tibula.
• 2.  Partially torn ACL.
• 3.  Minor cartilage damage to knee.
• 4.  7 concussions.
• 5.  Damaged elbow. (from a bicycle crash)
• 6.  The usual bumps, bruises etc.

Luckily that list of injuries has taken me a lifetime to build, and I usually don't get hurt much when I crash. Maybe there is a technique to crashing, but its not a technique I like to practice!

What is my funniest or most goon crash?

I endo'ed my CR80R into my friend Ross Muinzer's creek because I missed a turn. Luckily I wasn't hurt, but it definately was a goon moment! My bike and I were both underwater!