Out of the Blue | Julianne Daniels | Presented by Schrader’s
By Jeff McConkey
Name: Julianne Daniels
Birthday: October 24th, 1994
Hometown: Kelowna, BC
Occupation: Retail Sales Associate & Photographer
Number: 89
Bike: Honda CRF
Race Club: Kelowna Dirt Bike Club
Classes: Ladies
This week, Kelowna, BC rider, Julianne Daniels, is featured in ‘Out of the Blue’ |Devin Samaddar photo
How did you get started in racing?
Ever since I was a little girl, my dad would take my brothers and me out trail riding on the weekends. It wasn’t long before I traded my quad in for a dirt bike and that’s when I discovered my passion for riding. Throughout the years, I worked my way up to riding advanced trails, where I obtained a variety of skills and techniques, which have been very useful on the track. I am very proud of the natural obstacles I have endured and I feel so fortunate to have the best of both worlds.
On the trails, I love the solitude and satisfaction of ending the day by sitting atop a mountain and watching the sun fade into the horizon. Meanwhile, at the track you can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the excitement and passion all around you. Not to mention, I’ve always been quite shy and was surprised of how naturally I connected with everyone there. And although I’ve been riding for half of my existence, I am fairly new to the race world and really looking forward to my journey ahead!
As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
When you live in a place as beautiful as British Columbia, it would be impossible not to fall in love with the outdoors. I spent a lot of time camping, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, hiking and ATVing as a child. I was always quite the tomboy growing up, however I would have never of guessed I’d be where I am today in regards to motocross!
Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
Honestly, no, I don’t believe it is harder for a female to compete in. I think the motocross family is very supportive, influential and motivating to anyone willing to ride!
Who is your favourite rider and why?
There are so many inspirational riders that I look up to! However, there is one in particular who comes to mind first and that is Ryan Dungey. He is a pretty huge inspiration to me because of his strength, determination and unique riding style. He never fails to amaze me! Even despite his recent struggles, he still remains positive and keeps pushing forward. Not to mention, he is only 26 and has already won every major title in both American Motocross and Supercross.
“I was always quite the tomboy growing up, however I would have never of guessed I’d be where I am today in regards to motocross! ” | Michael Daniels photo
Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
I remember coming across one of Ashley Fiolek‘s first interviews and was amazed when she explained how she rides by feeling the vibrations from her bike. I then began to follow her professional journey and have looked up to her ever since. Ashley is absolutely incredible and so inspirational to every single person who shares a passion for motocross. Although she has retired from WMX, she is still a huge influential role model and is a perfect example when it comes to following your dreams and not letting anything hold you back.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
Colton Facciotti is another young, successful and determined rider I really look up to! I really like his riding style and I am so glad he was able to represent Team Canada.
What is your favourite track and why?
Bear Creek, located here in Kelowna, BC is my favorite motocross track because it’s close to home and their staff do a wonderful job maintaining it! It also has a variety of jumps and sections suitable for every rider; not to mention, the views are remarkable! I have met a lot of wonderful people at Bear Creek and they’ve always been so encouraging and fun! There are also an endless amount of trails to explore.
Who is your hero?
My parents are my heroes! My mom, dad and both my step parents are absolutely wonderful. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support. I can’t imagine life without them and I appreciate everything they do!
What were your goals for this season?
My goals for this season were to transition from trail riding to track! I feel like I have achieved my goal of doing so and I am proud of where I am. For now, I plan on practicing as much as possible before the snow falls. As for 2017, I plan on attending races and improving my riding skills! I am very excited for my journey ahead.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
One of my biggest accomplishments so far is getting up on a CRF 250r! I used to be intimidated by the big bikes because I am barely able to touch the ground on them. However, It wasn’t until I took one for a rip that I realized how much I enjoyed the power!
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
The smell of coffee and race fuel in the morning!
“I remember coming across one of Ashley Fiolek’s first interviews and was amazed when she explained how she rides by feeling the vibrations from her bike. I then began to follow her professional journey and have looked up to her ever since.” | Julianne Daniels photo
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
Some of my other passions include photography, animals, art, music, make-up and horseback riding. I also have three dogs and five parrots that mean the world to me.
Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/partner, or just a bonus?
I have yet to find that special someone, but I am in no hurry! I know they’re out there somewhere and it would be such a bonus if they shared the same passion for motocross as I do!
If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
Absolutely, if it’s something they’re interested in then I will support them in every way to make their dreams come true!
Who do you want to thank?
I want to thank Jeff McConkey and Direct Motocross for the interview, as well as my parents and friends for all your support. I love and appreciate you all so much! Thank you.
