Out of the Blue: Rachel Springman
By Jeff McConkey
Intro by Billy Rainford
Name: Rachel Springman
Birthday: August 9, 1992
Hometown: Abbotsford, British Columbia
School & Grade or Occupation: I graduated university last year with a diploma in Criminal Justice, and now I’m currently a Youth Worker with kids ages 12-18.
Number: 631
Bike: Yamaha YZ250F
Race Club: CMRC / Future West
Classes: Youth and Ladies
Let’s get to know BC’s Rachel Springman. – Springman photo
How did you get started in racing?
My dad grew up racing dirtbikes, and when I was four he bought me a PW50. My throttle stuck and my mom had to ‘clothesline’ me off my bike, which scared me away from bikes for a year or so. Thankfully, I gave it another shot, started racing when I was seven, and have been doing it ever since!
As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
I don’t really remember what I thought about motocross when I was a kid, but it seemed that it was such a part of my life (and my family’s) that I didn’t expect to ever not be doing it.
Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
Yes and no. We are definitely at a disadvantage when it comes to strength on a bike, but considering how much the sport has progressed for females (in Canada especially) I would say that we have it pretty good. I have noticed that when I ride with a guy around my speed and that someone doesn’t know I’m female, they are way less reluctant to go nuts trying to stay ahead of me (Laughs).
Who is your favourite rider and why?
Got to say Josh Hansen, the guy has so much talent on a bike. Best style, too. Also, I have a huge crush on him, but everyone already knows that.
Rachel’s favourite rider is Josh Hansen and she thinks Vicki Golden is doing great things for Women’s Moto. – John Bowman photo
Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
Vicki Golden. She is such a badass! If someone asked me a few years ago if a female would ever compete in Supercross, I would have probably said no. I think it is the start of something really awesome and positive for females in the sport.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
There’s a few, but I’m going to say Sean Hamblin (not Canadian but close enough). The guy is as wise as it gets with a dirtbike. I worked with him this spring and I can say that he has helped me with my riding so much.
What is your favourite track and why?
Probably Kamloops. It had a bit of everything–you have to be able to make good line choices and stay focused. I prefer the loamy tracks over hard-packed for sure!
Who is your hero?
I just read the book Unbroken. It’s the story of Olympic athlete and POW survivor, Louie Zamperini, and if you read the book or watch the movie you’ll understand why he’s my hero. This quote for instance: “I’ve made it this far and refused to give up, because all my life I had always finished the race.”
What are your goals for this season?
I honestly was not expecting to be racing this season, but a change in plans a couple months ago made me make the decision to race this summer. Same goals as always– stay in one piece, have fun, and do my best.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
I would have to say finishing third in the Women’s series in 2012 and 2014, graduating university, and having a job that I really enjoy.
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
As much as I love riding, I have to say spending time with my friends and family. I’ve made some lifelong pals that I don’t usually see unless we’re at the races. My whole family is into moto so it is nice to spend quality time with them on the weekends. Lots of laughs for sure.
Rachel enjoys being with her moto family when she’s at the races. – John Bowman photo
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
There’s not a ton of time between work, volunteering, and dirt bikes, but I like to eat (laughs), go to Crossfit, ride my road bike, watch Netflix, read, shop, or go hiking if the weather is nice. I’ve painted a few moto helmets for friends, which I really like to do, but it is pretty time consuming so I haven’t done as many as I’d like to.
Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/husband, or just a bonus?
No, because they get all butt-hurt when you get faster than them anyways. Totally kidding, doesn’t really matter to me.
If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
Probably not, because I would a) be broke, and b) develop serious health issues due to stress from watching them. Never say never I guess.
Who do you want to thank?
Holeshot Motorsports, Big Steel Box, Gerald Heinrichs, Paul Rak at Spy Optics, Jay Moore at Foxhead Canada, and my Mom and Dad for everything they do.
