On the Radar: Travis Baer
By Jeff McConkey
Name: Travis Baer
Age: 18 years old
Hometown: Seaforth, Ontario
School and Grade or Occupation: Graduated, currently working for Arva Grain as a truck driver.
Number: 283
Bike: Honda CRF 450r
Race Club: AMO/CMRC
Classes: MX1/MX3 Junior
This week, Seaforth, Ontario’s #283 Travis Baer is ‘On the Radar.’ – MG Photo supplied by Baer
How did you get started in racing?
Back when I was little my parents were always into the extreme sports. My dad had always been into motocross and has been a mechanic for me since day one. He’s raced himself and I’ve always wanted to race dirt bikes since I could learn how to shift gears. My first bike was a Honda 50 and it kinda just spiraled from there and that’s where I am today .
What is your favourite track and why?
My favourite track would have to be Walton raceway, for sure. I live so close and whenever they have a open day to ride I’m always there. I’ve grown up in the area so I’ve been going to Walton as long as I can remember. The layout really suits my style and I love throwing whips and going fast there. It’s almost part of my childhood. I can’t thank Brett Lee, Chris Lee and Mark Perrin enough for putting on a awesome event every year.
“The Canadian Pro I would look up to would have to be Kyle Keast. I look up to him because of the way he can handle the bike and push hard to get where he needs to go.” – Juli Butler photo supplied by Baer
Who is your favourite rider and why?
My favourite rider would have to be Jimmy Decotis. He’s not afraid to lay it all out on the line and get the win and I really respect that. I wish someday I could have the experience and talent he has.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
The Canadian Pro I would look up to would have to be Kyle Keast. I look up to him because of the way he can handle the bike and push hard to get where he needs to go. I like his riding style and the way he can put the bike in places where other riders can’t. The strength he has separates him from the rest of the pack.
Who is your hero?
My hero would have to be a mix between my Mom and Dad. All they ever want me to do is be successful and I respect that. Anywhere from work all the way to lining up every weekend at the track, they’re always behind me no matter what and it’s nice to know that I have my parents behind me.
What are your goals for this season, and what is it going to take to reach them?
My goals are pretty straight forward. I’d like to finish out a full season injury free and be able to be in the top 3 every weekend. Last year I was on the right track but unfortunately I broke my collarbone at TransCan, and then my ankle at Madoc. Anything that happens this year will be better than last year.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
My biggest accomplishments would have to be being able to run with the top guys in my classes even though I haven’t been in the best shape. I took 6 months off riding and racing last year to go work on a cash crop farm in Saskatchewan and I feel like that affected the outcome of riding the past year. I like the feeling of knowing that I can be successful and I can win races if I put in the work.
Travis says his mom and dad are his heroes for everything they do and have done. – Juli Butler photo supplied by Baer
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
My favourite part about going to the races would have to be seeing all of my friends and catching up with them. It’s just like everyone is a big family at the track and everyone would do anything for each other.
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
When I’m not racing I really like to farm. I live on a cash crop farm and I love running equipment. It’s almost as freeing as riding a dirt bike. Farming will always be a big part of my life and I imagine I’ll be doing it till I’m 6 feet under the ground.
Who would you like to thank?
I’d like to thank my Mom and Dad for everything they do for me. I’d also like to thank Lucas Oil for the years of support, Arva Grain, Red Rider, and most importantly my girlfriend Taylor for always being behind me no matter what I do. Also, all of my friends and family who come out to support me. Thanks to Jeff for giving me the opportunity to do this interview.
