Name: Megan Arnemann
Birthday: August 12th, 1991.
Hometown: Barrhead, Alberta.
Occupation: Town of Barrhead Employee.
Number: 250
Bike: 2014 Honda crf 250
Race Club: Alberta Dirt Riders Association.
Classes: MX3 Ladies, Ladies A, MX3 junior, and Junior B.
Let’s get to know Megan Arnemann. | Brett Leatham photo
How did you get started in racing?
My family has always been into the whole off-road scene riding anything from bikes, quads or sleds, but if I had a finger to point at someone it would be my father. He grew up riding bikes and it didn’t take long for us to follow in his footsteps. I didn’t start riding till around 2008 though. After being at the track daily watching my brothers ride, I decided it was finally my turn to give the bikes a go.
As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
Not at all, I honestly was more into quads. I played all sorts of sports growing up too, so I had a strong athletic background. My brothers finally convinced me to try riding bikes and I was hooked ever since.
Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
In some aspects, yes. I think it’s harder for women to get sponsors and support to race further than the average hobby. But here in Canada we are very fortunate to have Denaye Arnett and Camille Bunko for busting their butts off to keep women’s motocross alive. (Along with countless other ladies and individuals who have helped.)
Who is your favourite rider and why?
There are so many! (Laughs) But I have always been a fan of K-Dub (aka Kevin Windham.) He rides with such passion not only on the track, but off of it as well. Who doesn’t love a rider who performs awesome transfer jumps as well!
Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
Every lady racer is out there making history in my perspective. Every one of us is helping the industry grow, but to name one in particular I would have to say Ashley Fiolek. She’s a part of history and I loved watching her race when there was a women’s series in the states.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
Currently right now I would say looking at it from a women’s point of view, Ami Houde. She’s an exciting, kind-hearted individual who always strives to have fun and inspire others to live the dream. I can’t wait to see what she brings for 2015, and I hope to see her at some of our Women’s Nationals.
What is your favourite track and why?
The track I always look forward to riding is Swan Hills, AB. It’s an old jewel and I always enjoy riding there with its unique terrain and track layout.
Who is your hero?
My hero would be my dad. Without him I wouldn’t be here today doing what I love. He sold his first bike just so we could get our own and has always looked out for us since day one.
What are your goals for next season?
Next season I plan to compete in the Women’s National series, and participate in as many local races as I can.
Watch for Megan next summer in the Women’s West Nationals. | Sheryl Arnemann photo
What are your biggest accomplishments?
Probably my biggest accomplishment is not breaking a bone yet. (Laughs). Every season since 2009 I’ve placed top 5 in the Ladies A class, taking the championship in 2010. This is actually my first year not placing, I had some engine problems right at the beginning of the season and couldn’t seem to put a solid moto down throughout the summer.
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
I’d have to say the people. I’ve developed some pretty amazing friendships from fellow riders I just met at the races. There’s nothing better than wrenching on a friend’s bike just before a moto to help them out. Needless to say, we had a lot of help this past season with all our mechanical difficulties. I get another weekend filled with family and friends all looking to have a great time.
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
Staying in shape in the off-season, eating healthy and going to the gym on a regular basis. The options are endless from off-roading, music and recreational sports.
Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/husband, or just a bonus?
It’s most certainly a bonus. Motocross is like any other sport or hobby you share with your loved ones. To share the same passion for something like racing is always awesome to have, but those who aren’t familiar with the racing scene catch on right away.
If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
I sure hope so! But that’s something they will have to chose for themselves. I will never force the sport upon them.
Who do you want to thank?
I’d like to thank my family for always supporting me from day one. My brothers Devon and Corey Arnemann, who forced me to first learn on their 450’s and helping me be successful in my racing to this day. My boyfriend Brett Leathem, I’m so thankful to have someone who pushes me to achieve my goals and helps me in any way possible on and off the track. Lastly, a huge shout out to some of my current sponsors Honda Extreme Powerhouse, Motovan, Parts Canada, Decal Works, Disturbed Industries and Ryno Power.
