On the Radar: Alex Hobden
By Jeff McConkey
Name: Alex Hobden
Age: 21
Hometown: Beaverton, ON
Occupation: Student
Number: 311
Bike: Husqvarna FC 450
Race Club: MMRS/CMRC
Classes: MX1 Pro
Let’s get to know Ontario rider, Alex Hobden. – Harvey Gold photo
How did you get started in racing?
My dad raced Pro, and I would always look through this box of trophies that he had in the basement. It got to the point where all I would talk about is riding. It wasn’t long after that my dad surprised me with a Honda XR 70. After about 3 months I got on a 65, and that was the bike I started to race on.
What is your favourite track and why?
I would say my favourite track at the moment would be Muttco Mountain. John Maguire has an awesome track and the dirt is perfect there. It always makes for good racing and it’s always a good turn out.
Who is your favourite rider and why?
My favourite rider to watch would be James Stewart, he is always entertaining and has unreal style.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
I look up to a lot of guys in Canada, but I grew up looking up to Kyle Keast. He’s always been the Canadian rider I looked up to most. He’s a hard-working guy on and off the track, and he is awesome to watch in the sand.
Alex has always looked up to Kyle Keast. – Mao Ouyang photo
Who is your hero?
My parents are my heroes. Without them there is no way I would be where I am today. After having two concussions last year and hardly riding at all, I kind of flew under the radar again. My mom and dad believed in me and they know that I have lots to prove this year. I’m just really lucky to have them in my corner.
What are your goals for this season?
This year will be my first year of Pro. I’m very anxious but also just want to go out and just do my best. I want to learn as much as I can racing the best in Canada and apply it on the track. It’s going to be a good learning experience for me.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
Growing up, I won lots of races and few titles on 85 and 65. I would say that my biggest accomplishment would be turning Pro. It’s something I always knew growing would happen; it’s an awesome feeling. I’ve had lots of setbacks since I started racing Intermediate up until now, and I missed out on the amateur side of things. But turning Pro would be my biggest accomplishment.
Alex lists turning Pro as his biggest accomplishment to date. – Mao Ouyang photo
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
My favourite part about the races is having my family and friends there cheering me on. It’s an awesome feeling having a good moto and your family and friends are there to see it.
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
When I’m not racing I like to hangout with friends, go paint balling, ride pitbikes and just have fun.
Who would you like to thank?
I would like to thank my mom and dad, Lime Nine graphics, Bondi Engines, Machine Racing, ACS Distributing, Leatt Brace, my friends, my girlfriend and Direct Motocross for this opportunity. Thank you and I’ll see you at the races.
