Out of the Blue | Kassi Simpson | Presented by Schrader’s
By Jeff McConkey
‘Out of the Blue’ is brought to you by Schrader’s.
Name: Kassi Simpson
Birthday: November 2, 1989
Hometown: Prince George, BC
School and Occupation: I work for a lawyer and am in college taking a bookkeeping program.
Number: 222
Bike: 2014 Suzuki RM 85
Race Club: PNWMA
Classes: Ladies
This week’s ‘Out of the Blue’ column features Prince George, BC rider, #222 Kassi Simpson | Photo provided by Simpson
How did you get started in racing?
I decided to go to my first off-road race for fun and it was the biggest adrenaline rush ever. After that I was hooked. The people are amazing in moto and that was a big push for me to race.
As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
Absolutely not. I rode horses all my life and did very well but always wanted to be a dirt biker. I decided 2 years ago to get rid of my horses and buy a dirt bike and haven’t looked back. I started a little late but I work my butt off so hopefully I can catch up.
Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
Yes. It’s tough to be a girl in any sport. I think lots of girls are intimidated by getting into racing and I want girls to feel welcome to come try it out. I was terrified but the girls I’ve met through dirt biking are some of the best people I have ever met. I think girls have to work harder to be able to throw their big bikes around and pick them up when they fall. That’s why I ride a little bike (Laughs).
Who is your favourite rider and why?
Vicki Golden is pretty awesome. She looks so in control and the things she can do on a bike are insane. I also think Ken Roczen has an awesome riding style. He’s so fast and makes it look easy!
Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
Ashley Fiolek. She showed everyone that anyone can do it and I love what she does for the sport. She is so inspiring!
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
I think Jesse Pettis is pretty awesome, especially because he’s from Prince George. Pretty neat to see someone go and have the success he has had from this little town!
Watch for Kassi at an Arenacross race out west this fall | Photo provided by Simpson
What is your favourite track and why?
My favourite off-road race is Chuwhels in Kamloops! I like the Quesnel track when it’s wet; the sand really holds you in the corners and it’s pretty fun!
Who is your hero?
My mom. She has shown me all my life that any women can do anything and to be strong and independent. I hope to be like her one day!
What were your goals for this season?
I just wanted to go and have fun — see what it’s all about and get the experience. I will be racing Arenacross in 2 weeks so I’m very excited about that!
What are your biggest accomplishments?
I am pretty new to racing so don’t have a lot on my resumé, yet. I think my biggest accomplishment was finishing the race and how hard I worked to get better at riding. If you would have told me I’d be racing Arenacross at the start of the year, I would have laughed at you. I put in a lot of effort and am very dedicated, so I think that will help in my success next season.
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
The people are great, most are really helpful and want to see you succeed. Being around a bunch of people that share the same passion as you do is pretty great. And the adrenaline rush… thats the best feeling in the world!
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
I try to ride almost every day. If I cant ride, I’m usually working on my bike or watching videos trying to learn how to be faster and better. Right now, I’m a pretty boring student so my evenings get consumed with homework.
Simpson at the ‘Rocks and Logs’ event | Julie Dorge Photography photo
Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/partner, or just a bonus?
I think it would be neat to have someone to go to races with and share the same passion as you do. Having anyone, whether they ride or not as long as they support you, would be good!
If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
I don’t think there will be children in my future, but if I did I’d try to get them interested in it. I wish I had started as a kid.
Who do you want to thank?
My parents first for always supporting me no matter what and my dad for being my mechanic even when I have dumb questions. My little group of friends who have cheered for me and always want to see me do well, especially Steph! Anyone who has ever taken the time to ride with me and help me out — it’s very much appreciated. My sponsors: Faith Kulture Clothing and FXR Racing, Illicit MX and Machine Girl. Caleb, my parts guy from NR Motors for always making sure I am ready to go with anything I need and my trainer who has taught me so much about riding and helped me improve so fast, thanks for putting up with my frustrations and making me realize I could do it!
