On the Radar: Jacey Whelan
By Jeff McConkey
Amped Photography photos supplied by Whelan
Name: Jacey Whelan
Birthday: October 24, 2006
Hometown: Lloydminster, SK
School & Grade: I am in Grade 3 at Queen Elizabeth School.
Number: 45
Bike: KTM 50 Pro SR
Race Club: Lloydminster Offroad Riders, CMRC Saskatchewan Amateur series
Classes: I mostly race in the 7-8 50 class
Let’s get to know young Jacey Whelan.
How did you get started in racing?
We went to watch some of my dad’s friends at a race, and I really wanted to try. My dad bought me a Honda CRF50 to learn on. It didn’t take long before I needed to go faster so we upgraded to the KTM.
What is your favourite track and why?
My local track, the Lucas Bachman Memorial Raceway. It’s the track I learned to race on, and where I started jumping. It’s only a couple minutes from my house so we spend a lot of time there. I also had a lot of fun racing in Eston, SK.
Who is your favourite rider and why?
Chad Reed is my favourite. He has such a smooth riding style and he is very tough. I am cheering for him in this upcoming Supercross season.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
Shawn Maffenbeier. He is from Saskatchewan also, and we see him quite a bit at some of our races. He also takes the time to help me and he was a huge help to improve my riding.
Fellow Saskatchewan-ian (?) Shawn Maffenbeier is her favourite Canadian rider.
Who is your hero?
My hero is my dad. He drives me to every race, does all the work on my bike, puts gas in my bike and feeds me.
What were your goals for this season?
Last year was my first full season and I placed 7th overall. This year, I hope to be in the top 3 at the end of the year.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
I have had a couple big moments. I dropped my lap times over a minute at the Lucas Bachman Memorial Raceway. I also beat a boy cleanly who was lapping me in 2013.
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
I really enjoy just spending time with my family and meeting new people and making new friends. Everyone at the track is so nice and friendly; I just like going and hanging out. I also enjoy beating the boys.
What would you like to when you grow up?
I want to be a professional racer when I grow up.
Jacey hopes to be a Pro rider one day.
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
Playing with my friends, gymnastics, and going to school.
Who do you want to thank?
I really want to thank my mom and dad, as well as my whole team with Amped Racing.
