With a strong showing in practice the pro-am race in Santa Clara was looking like it could possibly be the biggest and fastest of the season. Riders like Gavin Lubbe a prior winner, Joey Bradford, Past Amateur #1 Alexis Vergara, Masa Sampei to represent the East, and Mike Hughes the local hero, it was shaping up to possibly be the hardest main event in some time for a pro-am. But things were not to be as some riders had prior activities planned and some were saving their legs for the upcoming ABA Oregon Race. Bandit racing is still holding $100 extra cash when we get 17+ riders so Steve was half way to the bank when the motos were posted and only 7guys entered. Not a problem at all for eventual winner Anthony Pasqual who would take down the win with a mean first straight and avoid the last turn action to take home the cash. We caught up with him and stole some pics off the myspace page and here is his take on the event and the future plans- Enjoy
Results-
1. Anthony Pasqual
2. Kyle Zondervan
3. Kevin Zondervan
4. Al Porter
5. Patrick Price
6. Nick Valencia
Name:Pete Anthony Pascual
City:Stockton Cali
Age:16
Local Track: Roseville
Lets go ahead and get right into it. Congrats on your win last Friday it was well deserved and some people were a little surprised... Explain the lap for those of us who are old and cant recall.-
Thank you.Well it was about my second time on a random gate and i really wasnt used to it so i felt at a disadvantage,but in the main I felt I had a pretty good snap and tried to hold it to the first corner so I can try and stay as smooth as possible,so people have a harder time to pass me.I did that and held the way,even though I was way out of breath trying to old everybody else off,haha.
Now getting back to the stunned faces when a new winner emerges- I have seen you killing it at national events all year and youve been on my radar for some time. But a few people I had to explain in detail that you just didnt fall off the milk truck and win a race. Its no secret to the people in your circle that you work hard for the speed you have. Whats the group like that you ride with and how does it help obviously?
Haha,I ride and train with a few people,mainly because it helps me push myself to the limit to try and be the best I can.The people I train with are very supportive and train really hard also.(Howard Cato)I think its a good advantage to train with somebody other than yourself so you do everything you need to than to back out if you get tired.
With a win in the 3rd round of the series and making a little bit of cash for your efforts, we assume youll be making it out for future events?
yes.I like to push myself against older and stronger people to see where i should be at.And makin money is a plus!
Who do you consider a threat to take down a pro-am win and whos considered tough comp at the local tracks in your opinion?
Well thats hard to say because I ride at a lot of local races,theres a lot of people but to make it short I would say,Shankle,and Nick.
Random Gate or ABA Style?
I like ABA but starting to get the random.
Tech or Power?
Combination of both.
Why does Howard Cato come all the way to the Pro-Am night and then decide to polish his grill instead of getting in the mix?
Haha,I think he wouldnt want to get hurt on the random gate because he has upcoming nationals all the time.
Shout outs?
Big shout outs to my dad and Howard Cato!!
What races can we keep an eye out for you in the future?
Oregon and some more pro ams in Santa Clara!!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Austin Lapraz...
Friday night under the lights was the 1st round of scored Pro-Am racing out at Santa Clara PAL. Being that were trying to run a complete series we will be now keeping track of everyones finishes and points total for year end awards and prizes and good ol fashioned bragging rights. The turns were soft and the air was cold but 7 guys knew that it was well worth the $10 to make a 1 lap for the cash run at some much needed dough and some peace of mind knowing that the recent rains havent slowed them down. After the typical Al Roybal rollout things were about ready to kick off when Al set the minds of a friendly race into a free for all with a cash incentive that the best finishing amateur would recieve a crisp $100 bill for their efforts. This announcement fell onto the ears of Niko D'Zapo and Zach Reissen who were looking strong in practice as well as Nick Valencia who was happy to be starting from lane 7 because the insides of the turns werent going to help tonight. Also in the hunt for the cash was Kevin Zondervan who was looking to take his fresh new gear onto the podium and take 2 lovely Red Bull ladies to dinner with the rest of the cash! Rollouts were all done and the 2 pro's in the gate were a duo of Lee's as both Austen and Kenny would represent as crowd favorite Mike Hughes once again decided to duck the competition, along with the has been Alexis Vergara who was no where to be found.
Gate hit the deck and Austen Lee showed the boys that he doesnt have a problem switching from aba cadence to random as he was the first one to get a small lead. On the inside Niko D'Zapo was working his way to the outside ro keep a solid fast line through the turn. Austen Lee blew a pedal and dropped from 1st to mid pack and was trying to recover. Nick Valencia took full advantage as he now had the lead and closed off all comers into the first turn. Apparently he thought the race was mixed with a jumping contest because he skied the triple as the rest of the pack took the faster approach and manualed underneath him. D'Zapo was in prime location to take things over down the 2nd straight and was close to the $100 amateur prize. Austen Lee was stll working his way through the pack with passes left and right. As Niko took over the lead tragedy struck and he too lost a pedal at the worst time ever! He went from 1st to mid pack as well. All the while Nick was getting swallowed up like Jonah by a whale and the pack was making moves at every angle. Valencia looked gassed as he fought off Zack in the 2nd turn, but a patient Riessen was setting up a last turn move that might just work. All the while dicing with the leader for the win Austen Lee had moved into 3rd and was on the move quick. Valencia shuts the door on Riessen but Lee plays it perfectly rails the turn and lays down some last straight ponies to snag the win. From nearly last place to grab the overall win. If you have ever seen the Yvan Lapraz lap beating JB for the junior men win in Canada it was the nor cal version. Valencia cashed out $100 for the best amateur finish and top honors went to Lee who pocketed some hard earned money... Look for full results and a point structure in the next few days. Thanks goes out to Jump2Jump for supplying the cash and Al Roybal for the great announcing. Santa Clara PAL and the volunteers for giving us a place to ride and make things happen! Alot of people took pics so lets see em! dawgincnorcal@aol.com if you have anything :)
Bandit Racing had $100 cash to toss in the pot as well but the rider count must hit 17 entered guys for this to come into play. Everyone in the main made at least their $10 back so come on out and see where you rank against nor*cal's top amateur and pro riders on a local stage!
Gate hit the deck and Austen Lee showed the boys that he doesnt have a problem switching from aba cadence to random as he was the first one to get a small lead. On the inside Niko D'Zapo was working his way to the outside ro keep a solid fast line through the turn. Austen Lee blew a pedal and dropped from 1st to mid pack and was trying to recover. Nick Valencia took full advantage as he now had the lead and closed off all comers into the first turn. Apparently he thought the race was mixed with a jumping contest because he skied the triple as the rest of the pack took the faster approach and manualed underneath him. D'Zapo was in prime location to take things over down the 2nd straight and was close to the $100 amateur prize. Austen Lee was stll working his way through the pack with passes left and right. As Niko took over the lead tragedy struck and he too lost a pedal at the worst time ever! He went from 1st to mid pack as well. All the while Nick was getting swallowed up like Jonah by a whale and the pack was making moves at every angle. Valencia looked gassed as he fought off Zack in the 2nd turn, but a patient Riessen was setting up a last turn move that might just work. All the while dicing with the leader for the win Austen Lee had moved into 3rd and was on the move quick. Valencia shuts the door on Riessen but Lee plays it perfectly rails the turn and lays down some last straight ponies to snag the win. From nearly last place to grab the overall win. If you have ever seen the Yvan Lapraz lap beating JB for the junior men win in Canada it was the nor cal version. Valencia cashed out $100 for the best amateur finish and top honors went to Lee who pocketed some hard earned money... Look for full results and a point structure in the next few days. Thanks goes out to Jump2Jump for supplying the cash and Al Roybal for the great announcing. Santa Clara PAL and the volunteers for giving us a place to ride and make things happen! Alot of people took pics so lets see em! dawgincnorcal@aol.com if you have anything :)
Bandit Racing had $100 cash to toss in the pot as well but the rider count must hit 17 entered guys for this to come into play. Everyone in the main made at least their $10 back so come on out and see where you rank against nor*cal's top amateur and pro riders on a local stage!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
True Original...
Ok so this here is probably one of the more exciting interviews that I really looked forward to. None other than Al Roybal. Who else do you know can handle driving days on end with the crew, stay out partying til the early morning, show up to the race and announce 100 motos of race action and then win a lap without ever jumping? And all the while he owns a horse! This guy has picked me up from random airports and left me stranded at shady clubs for better or for worse til death do us part. My friend that I would vouch for any day of the week- Al Roybal.
Name: Albert Roybal aka That goofy guy who announces!
Age: unknown
Class: of 1989
Hometown: Gilroy ...R.O.G. origional
Favorite Local Rider: As long as she's over 280 lbs I love er'
Favorite Track: NBL Grands (hands down)
Al Roybal... Where do we start? 90% of people will recognize your voice before they recognize your name, elaborate on how you have evolved into one of the best announcers in BMX? How and where did it gain momentum and where would you like to go with it?
I started announcing back in 1991 or so at Gilroy BMX. Acouple people heard me and it was done. I was announcing evry local and state race in California. Then came the NBL nationals and some motorcross and flat track racing. Now Im just doing NBL Elite nationals. Editors Note- Al declined to announce the UCI Worlds- Who does that?
Along with the announcing subject what would be your favorite term/remark/punchline that always gets a good laugh at the races?
He's off like a prom dress .... or maybe, ..... here comes the calvary!
Jump2Jump is something that you have developed over time- Explain the operation and how can someone get involved or get more information on setting up a show?
Jump2jump is a nonprofit drug and alcohol prevention program we have been involved with for years. We basically go into Elementary and Jr High schools and talk a lil' about bicycle safety and a lil bout' gettin high on bikes and not drugs (or skateboards, or roller blades or art, whatever it is you do, do it!!!) My father was an addict so this is a subject close to my heart. If someone wants to get a show going all they have to do is check the website at www.jump2jump.com and give me a ring!
Being that some would say your a "nibbler" and have somewhat not been serious about chasing an ABA National Plate, you showed up at ABA Grands 2008 to make a statement. For those of us that didnt see you in the main events what was the statement supposed to be?
HA HA .... I was in it to win it but somehow I ended up in the hospital trying to live !!!! Im going back next year just to whoop those ABA goofballs!
From the downsides of injury well move to a better time- You have gained some World Rankings along with Christmas Classic Cups that have been seen from your living room, to Ebay, to yard sales HA- Lets hear the accomplishments because you earned em! Favorite race accomplishment in the years you've been at it?
Im stoked on the 6 Presidents Cup wins! Each one of those cups represents a team effort. Ive won the NBL grands 3 times, a couple 2nds and 3rds .... made a couple World mains, Brazil was rad, Australia too. I got 3rd at the ABA worlds, but thats like winning 14 novice at reedley. Not really a big deal.
Ive personally traveled easily 15,000 Miles in the last year or so with you... Explain to the common person why it is we dont fly again?
Cause we are scared!!! I was in the Marine Corps, and basically I have alot of parachute jumps, Im a jumpmaster. Unless I have a parachute on I'm not getting on that contraption called a plane! I dont trust any pilot any plane, helicopter or flying machine, not even that Hudson river skippy guy. Their aint no river to save you flying over the Rockies!!! Or over Iowa!!! Last year Riofrio and I flew to Florida and had 2 emergency landings on our way to Texas!!! .... Riofrio is freaking me out about calling his mom and crap. He's like, " We lived through one today, we'll never survive again !!!!Should I call my mom!!!" ..... Dude, flying sucks !!! Get out and see this country along Interstate 10 or 15..... it doesn't get better than that!
How much money would it cost if you paid $0.10 a mile for a rental car and drove cross country?
HA HA .....done it! It was alot but luckily the driver didnt ask for a tip or I mighta had to call the wife for a lil' spending money!!!
You are pretty involved in all things Nor*Cal BMX related as well as the state series stuff, what is one thing you would change if you could snap your fingers and it would be done?
I would love to show all the ABA'ers how wonderful the NBL is and to remind them its all about friends and family, not points and jackets !!!!
Nor*Cal Pro Am... Who is looking hot and who should we keep an eye out for?
ME!!! Thats all I have to say bout that!
How fast is JB.COM going right now?
Not as fast as me! He needs to do some squats and get off the Al RoyNuts. I cant be training him forever!!! Tell him to quit calling and texting me about my training regime. He couldnt handle it !!!
Why do you setup in the gate crooked?
Im a lil crooked here and there so it just seems to work for me. Keeps me centered. Plus, I basically know Im gonna snap you so, I just wanna cut you off sooner rather than later.
Is Fresno Nor*Cal all the time or when Stumpy is gettin results?
Just when Stumpy gets results, and he hooks me up with the Troy lee stuff, ....wait and see what the jump 2 jump team is wearing this year at the state races.
2012 Olympics- The rumor is you have a Girl Pro thats going to shock the world... Any truth to that?
*Nick Valencia confirmed that he did build a very serious race bike and delivered to an unknown address at the Gilroy Olympic Training Facility...
HA ! My daughter has a dope 20" (GT ultra box) and cruiser and rides it to the corner to buy soda. Thats about it!! She raced in 2000, 2001 somewhere in there, but is just over it. She plays soccer, and is a bit too agressive !!! I dont know how to get her back on the right track.
Who has more power? Mary Garcia or Obama?
shi* ...... MARY!!! Hands down. Obama cant get a rider to jump 28 foot doubles with all that fancy dancy speech retorick! Obama dont know BMX!!!!
Hoo Rah? Semper Fi?
Both, forever a Marine! Using my Marine skills, Im gonna wax that Z-turd and his lil brother General Lee. They cant handle the truth! As for Lubbe' ...... who the heck is he? I own underwear older than Matt Trujillo so I aint trippin on some youngster!!!
Heres your chance to rant and rave, call people out, give thanks, express concern, spill the beans, tell a story? Lets hear it!
One time at band camp, meand my boy Nick, .....well that one's not really appropriate, .... okay, this one time, .....that one either. I want all those fools racing the Nor Caller Baller Series Shoot Out Pro Am (NCBSSOPA) thingy's that Im in .... your out, or going over that turn, ....yea you .... bring it, ....Im not Austin Lee, Im not gonna let someone steal my money. I aint got no love for you man. Im not Mary Poppins with a fist full of dough! If you try to beat me, your stealing from my wallet, taking food outta my mouth, my boys mouth! Should I just bend over, bury my head in the sand ..... WHAT !!! Bring it. ABA ....NBL ....who wants some!!!
Disclaimer, AL loves everyone! .....except anyone racing the Nor Cal Baller Series Shoot Out Pro AM......
Name: Albert Roybal aka That goofy guy who announces!
Age: unknown
Class: of 1989
Hometown: Gilroy ...R.O.G. origional
Favorite Local Rider: As long as she's over 280 lbs I love er'
Favorite Track: NBL Grands (hands down)
Al Roybal... Where do we start? 90% of people will recognize your voice before they recognize your name, elaborate on how you have evolved into one of the best announcers in BMX? How and where did it gain momentum and where would you like to go with it?
I started announcing back in 1991 or so at Gilroy BMX. Acouple people heard me and it was done. I was announcing evry local and state race in California. Then came the NBL nationals and some motorcross and flat track racing. Now Im just doing NBL Elite nationals. Editors Note- Al declined to announce the UCI Worlds- Who does that?
Along with the announcing subject what would be your favorite term/remark/punchline that always gets a good laugh at the races?
He's off like a prom dress .... or maybe, ..... here comes the calvary!
Jump2Jump is something that you have developed over time- Explain the operation and how can someone get involved or get more information on setting up a show?
Jump2jump is a nonprofit drug and alcohol prevention program we have been involved with for years. We basically go into Elementary and Jr High schools and talk a lil' about bicycle safety and a lil bout' gettin high on bikes and not drugs (or skateboards, or roller blades or art, whatever it is you do, do it!!!) My father was an addict so this is a subject close to my heart. If someone wants to get a show going all they have to do is check the website at www.jump2jump.com and give me a ring!
Being that some would say your a "nibbler" and have somewhat not been serious about chasing an ABA National Plate, you showed up at ABA Grands 2008 to make a statement. For those of us that didnt see you in the main events what was the statement supposed to be?
HA HA .... I was in it to win it but somehow I ended up in the hospital trying to live !!!! Im going back next year just to whoop those ABA goofballs!
From the downsides of injury well move to a better time- You have gained some World Rankings along with Christmas Classic Cups that have been seen from your living room, to Ebay, to yard sales HA- Lets hear the accomplishments because you earned em! Favorite race accomplishment in the years you've been at it?
Im stoked on the 6 Presidents Cup wins! Each one of those cups represents a team effort. Ive won the NBL grands 3 times, a couple 2nds and 3rds .... made a couple World mains, Brazil was rad, Australia too. I got 3rd at the ABA worlds, but thats like winning 14 novice at reedley. Not really a big deal.
Ive personally traveled easily 15,000 Miles in the last year or so with you... Explain to the common person why it is we dont fly again?
Cause we are scared!!! I was in the Marine Corps, and basically I have alot of parachute jumps, Im a jumpmaster. Unless I have a parachute on I'm not getting on that contraption called a plane! I dont trust any pilot any plane, helicopter or flying machine, not even that Hudson river skippy guy. Their aint no river to save you flying over the Rockies!!! Or over Iowa!!! Last year Riofrio and I flew to Florida and had 2 emergency landings on our way to Texas!!! .... Riofrio is freaking me out about calling his mom and crap. He's like, " We lived through one today, we'll never survive again !!!!Should I call my mom!!!" ..... Dude, flying sucks !!! Get out and see this country along Interstate 10 or 15..... it doesn't get better than that!
How much money would it cost if you paid $0.10 a mile for a rental car and drove cross country?
HA HA .....done it! It was alot but luckily the driver didnt ask for a tip or I mighta had to call the wife for a lil' spending money!!!
You are pretty involved in all things Nor*Cal BMX related as well as the state series stuff, what is one thing you would change if you could snap your fingers and it would be done?
I would love to show all the ABA'ers how wonderful the NBL is and to remind them its all about friends and family, not points and jackets !!!!
Nor*Cal Pro Am... Who is looking hot and who should we keep an eye out for?
ME!!! Thats all I have to say bout that!
How fast is JB.COM going right now?
Not as fast as me! He needs to do some squats and get off the Al RoyNuts. I cant be training him forever!!! Tell him to quit calling and texting me about my training regime. He couldnt handle it !!!
Why do you setup in the gate crooked?
Im a lil crooked here and there so it just seems to work for me. Keeps me centered. Plus, I basically know Im gonna snap you so, I just wanna cut you off sooner rather than later.
Is Fresno Nor*Cal all the time or when Stumpy is gettin results?
Just when Stumpy gets results, and he hooks me up with the Troy lee stuff, ....wait and see what the jump 2 jump team is wearing this year at the state races.
2012 Olympics- The rumor is you have a Girl Pro thats going to shock the world... Any truth to that?
*Nick Valencia confirmed that he did build a very serious race bike and delivered to an unknown address at the Gilroy Olympic Training Facility...
HA ! My daughter has a dope 20" (GT ultra box) and cruiser and rides it to the corner to buy soda. Thats about it!! She raced in 2000, 2001 somewhere in there, but is just over it. She plays soccer, and is a bit too agressive !!! I dont know how to get her back on the right track.
Who has more power? Mary Garcia or Obama?
shi* ...... MARY!!! Hands down. Obama cant get a rider to jump 28 foot doubles with all that fancy dancy speech retorick! Obama dont know BMX!!!!
Hoo Rah? Semper Fi?
Both, forever a Marine! Using my Marine skills, Im gonna wax that Z-turd and his lil brother General Lee. They cant handle the truth! As for Lubbe' ...... who the heck is he? I own underwear older than Matt Trujillo so I aint trippin on some youngster!!!
Heres your chance to rant and rave, call people out, give thanks, express concern, spill the beans, tell a story? Lets hear it!
One time at band camp, meand my boy Nick, .....well that one's not really appropriate, .... okay, this one time, .....that one either. I want all those fools racing the Nor Caller Baller Series Shoot Out Pro Am (NCBSSOPA) thingy's that Im in .... your out, or going over that turn, ....yea you .... bring it, ....Im not Austin Lee, Im not gonna let someone steal my money. I aint got no love for you man. Im not Mary Poppins with a fist full of dough! If you try to beat me, your stealing from my wallet, taking food outta my mouth, my boys mouth! Should I just bend over, bury my head in the sand ..... WHAT !!! Bring it. ABA ....NBL ....who wants some!!!
Disclaimer, AL loves everyone! .....except anyone racing the Nor Cal Baller Series Shoot Out Pro AM......
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Brad Lovell...
Name:Brad Lovell
Age: 19
Years riding: 5 1/2
Hometown: livermore CA
Favorite local spot: Livermore BMX Track and Pleasanton dirt jumps
Favorite track: FBX
Favorite riders: Randy Stumphauser, Joey B, Austin Hyatt, Kyle Bennett, Bubba Harris, NICK VALENCIA!!! haha
How the year starting off for ya? Schedule is stacked what races sanctions
events are you planning on attending?
2009 is Definitely the year for BMX, local tracks are cleaning up, more races to attend, and after the Olympics more and more companies are starting to recognize BMX as a sport therefore more sponsorship opportunities await.
Your probably the fastest guy in your area hows it feel representing Livermore
so to speak. Youve gotta be the local hero to the NBL groms in the area, does
that play a role in your riding life much?
Heh I guess I am the best rider in my area, it cool having all the little guys look up to me. but then in a way it kinda sucks because there's nobody close by to push me to get much faster, I have to go all the way to santa clara for that.
To train... or not to train?
Last year for me was not to train, I wanted to have more fun with it and not push myself too hard, lately I've been getting sick of being 4th or 5th in semis if I even make the semis at nationals. well to say the least that stage is over and done with, I just got back into the gym and doing a whole lot of BMX specific Training, so all you PRO-AM fans and riders better watch out.
You have always ran the NBL 16-29 money class and with the Nor*Cal Pro-Am series kicking off how do you see that working out for you?
Totally stoked! Henry Sarria set a similar series up a few years back which was a ton of fun, I love racing all the pro-am guys because everything is up in the air, you never know what will happen so it's always exciting.
Any up and comers you would like to see jump into the Pro-Am and see how they do? Anybody you gunning to battle with or guys you suspect might be looking to make a run at the series title?
A few of the guys out of Prunedale are coming of age to get in the 16-29 money class, Justin Meyenberg just got his drivers license so we'll be seeing him alot more, also Ryan Agan is old enough to get in it. Both of these guys have been making appearances at PAL...
I consider you a SC PAL local just as much as a Livermore Local so the obvious
question is do you preffer ABA or NBL? Does it matter?
It just depends on what your goals are, I think the overall opinion is that ABA riders are faster than NBL riders, and there are alot more fast riders at pal than there are at Livermore, I like and dislike both for different reasons, in NBL its more about having fun, everyone acts like they already know you and grudges dont last longer than the next race, all the rules in the NBL are more consistent, when they went to randoms, everyone went to randoms not just pros. In ABA the comp is stiffer, but not always as fun, usually theres only one or two guys that stick around after a moto to say good race and do the signature BMX handshake. but its where I get most of my drive from, my goal is to consistently make ABA national mains, so not doing well at them doesnt phase me as much anymore it just lets me know what I need to work on. I don't preffer either one BMX is BMX.
You've been on Bandit for as long as I could remember, how is it working with
Steve and the team in general?
I have been on Bandit for about 4 years now, Steve is an awesome team Manager and is always there to help me out. we have gotten a few recent additions to the team including Andrew Benoit, and the Anderson Family. you'll be seeing a lot more Bandit jerseys up front and in the albums on www.customracingphotos.smugmug.com(haha had to stick the site in there).
Pictures! You seem to be the go to guy as of late for anyone interested in pictures- want to drop us a little info on how you got into shooting and what you offer in the way of photography for BMX and action sports in general?
I got into photography in my senior year in high school when I took a photo class as a GPA booster. I didn't really try that hard in the class but I always seemed to take good photos so I started to take a little more interest in it, I eventually
got my own camera and started taking it to the races. I first shot for BMX today when Hank (Sarria) came up to me panicking because he didn't have a photographer for the race we was writing for, so I said hey ill shoot for ya! Last year my mom and I started Custom Racing Photos because we noticed that there was no photographer for the NBL state series anymore. I have since taken over the business and just recently got the website up with the help of my girlfriend Halsey. I am currentlygoing to the Academy of Art in San Francisco, majoring in photography, I have used many of my BMX photos for homework in class to be reviewed by my anal retentive instructors. so what do I offer that most other photographers don't? How many photographers do you know of who can actually ride a bike? They say it takes on to know one and I know exactly what the riders are looking for in an image. I hate taking "stock" photos, you know the ones at nationals where you look through 80 pages of the exact same picture, just different riders. I like to move around, I like to get real close or get far away and zoom way in, you'll sometimes see me with my camera laying in the middle of a big jump waiting to snap a shot of a rider jumping over me. I'm also real picky about composition and focus, I usually delete about 30% of the shots I take before they get out of the camera because they are out of focus or I cut someones leg off. I offer the view of BMX and action sports from a rider/artistic perspective and with my mobil studio set up I am usually able to get you your prints before your next moto.
Plans for 2009- Shout outs and Sponsor thanks- like I said 2009 is a big year
for BMX.
Im setting my sights on the 2010 worlds in south africa so now is the
time to start, you'll be seeing me hopefully not getting moto'd at all the NBL
and ABA west coast nationals. I'd like to shout out to my parents for supporting me with BMX and school, Steve and the entire Bandit Racing crew, all the riders at pal, and my amazing girlfriend for kicking my ass every time I get on my bike. Don't forget to check out www.CustomRacingPhotos.smugmug.com and look for your face at all the upcoming NBL and ABA races!
Kyle Z-Man Zondervan tells all!
Haha the headlines get cornier everytime but enjoy...
Name:Kyle Zondervan
Age:22
Hometown: San Jose
Favorite Pro/Am: Day or Cisar/ Dont really have a favorite am. Sharrah and Fields are always good to watch though.
Favorite Local Rider: Joey B
Favorite Track/Spot: Fresno
Go ahead and give us a heads up on who you are, brief history on yourself and your riding-
Names Kyle but most people call me Z Man. Started racing when I was around 12 years old and been with it ever since.
Being in the A pro class has got to be tough especially right now, who do you think is the future AA in the class and whats it going to take to make that step for yourself?
Future AA's are probably Reid, Long, Wiesendanger and Lubbe just to name a few. They need to hurry up and turn AA already! As far as myself I need to step up the training a bit I think so I get on their level.
A lot of people may not know but you were one of the first Am's to navigate the UCI SX event held in SJ a few years back that eventually became the basis for the Olympic Track. Hows it feel knowing from a riders perspective you have ridden that caliber of track? Any plans to test the skills at that level again?
Riding that track when I was an am was crazy. The adrenaline rush was like no other. I am so glad I pushed myself to ride the track 2 years in a row, it was so fun. I have no plans to ride any supercross races in the near future but I would love to ride another supercross track eventually because it is like nothing else.
You have been a long time member of Psykopath's roster, hows the team doing and the crew?
The team is doing ok. Its hard to deal with things sometimes but every team goes through its ups and downs. Carl has been there for me for a while so I cant complain.
Your younger brother has been biting at your heels at the local track, is a small rivalry developing?
Definitely not. Kev cant hang. If he gets close to me I somehow find a way to push that much harder to stay out front haha! Cant let little Z beat me.
What local riders can you see taking their racing to the next level and making a splash nationally or even on the Worlds level?
I think there are a lot of riders locally that have stepped it up recently out at Santa Clara. I think they need to expand a bit and ride some other tracks tho. Niko Dzapo, Matt Trujillo and my boy Mike Kiser just to name a few have shown some recent improvements out at Santa Clara, but again I think riding other tracks will keep their speed up not only at Pal but at other tracks and at nationals. I also have to mention little 6x Mathew Sterling, hes been killin it recently at the nationals and I wanna congratulate him on getiing the GT ride.
Random Gate or ABA Predictable Gate?
Random Gate all the way. Shows who really has the skills to pay the bills.
You just missed the Pro-Am podium at the line with a 4th place finish at the last event, explain the lap and anything you could have done different to possibly be up for the win?
Ya I could have had a stronger first straight so I wouldnt have been balled up by Nick Dawg down the second straight and rhythm! Then I would have gotten that podium haha! Santa Clara pro ams are always a good time. Love ya Nick
Is Joey Bradford going fast right now or what?
Agreed. Straight killin' it these days.
Whats the final plans for the rest of 2009 I hear rumors that your going to this and that race, whats it looking like and what companies are supporting you and helping the dream?
Plans for 09' are to hit as many nationals as possible, or as many as my sponsors and budget will let me. Psykopath has been my long term ride and as for right now I am still getting helped out by Carl and the team which is greatly appreciated. A new co sponsor for me for 09 is Taco Bravo. They are helping me out huge and getting me to races that I normally wouldnt get to without them. I wanna thank everyone at Taco Bravo for the help and also my clothing sponsor STRIP clothing for keeping me fitted with some fresh threads.
Name:Kyle Zondervan
Age:22
Hometown: San Jose
Favorite Pro/Am: Day or Cisar/ Dont really have a favorite am. Sharrah and Fields are always good to watch though.
Favorite Local Rider: Joey B
Favorite Track/Spot: Fresno
Go ahead and give us a heads up on who you are, brief history on yourself and your riding-
Names Kyle but most people call me Z Man. Started racing when I was around 12 years old and been with it ever since.
Being in the A pro class has got to be tough especially right now, who do you think is the future AA in the class and whats it going to take to make that step for yourself?
Future AA's are probably Reid, Long, Wiesendanger and Lubbe just to name a few. They need to hurry up and turn AA already! As far as myself I need to step up the training a bit I think so I get on their level.
A lot of people may not know but you were one of the first Am's to navigate the UCI SX event held in SJ a few years back that eventually became the basis for the Olympic Track. Hows it feel knowing from a riders perspective you have ridden that caliber of track? Any plans to test the skills at that level again?
Riding that track when I was an am was crazy. The adrenaline rush was like no other. I am so glad I pushed myself to ride the track 2 years in a row, it was so fun. I have no plans to ride any supercross races in the near future but I would love to ride another supercross track eventually because it is like nothing else.
You have been a long time member of Psykopath's roster, hows the team doing and the crew?
The team is doing ok. Its hard to deal with things sometimes but every team goes through its ups and downs. Carl has been there for me for a while so I cant complain.
Your younger brother has been biting at your heels at the local track, is a small rivalry developing?
Definitely not. Kev cant hang. If he gets close to me I somehow find a way to push that much harder to stay out front haha! Cant let little Z beat me.
What local riders can you see taking their racing to the next level and making a splash nationally or even on the Worlds level?
I think there are a lot of riders locally that have stepped it up recently out at Santa Clara. I think they need to expand a bit and ride some other tracks tho. Niko Dzapo, Matt Trujillo and my boy Mike Kiser just to name a few have shown some recent improvements out at Santa Clara, but again I think riding other tracks will keep their speed up not only at Pal but at other tracks and at nationals. I also have to mention little 6x Mathew Sterling, hes been killin it recently at the nationals and I wanna congratulate him on getiing the GT ride.
Random Gate or ABA Predictable Gate?
Random Gate all the way. Shows who really has the skills to pay the bills.
You just missed the Pro-Am podium at the line with a 4th place finish at the last event, explain the lap and anything you could have done different to possibly be up for the win?
Ya I could have had a stronger first straight so I wouldnt have been balled up by Nick Dawg down the second straight and rhythm! Then I would have gotten that podium haha! Santa Clara pro ams are always a good time. Love ya Nick
Is Joey Bradford going fast right now or what?
Agreed. Straight killin' it these days.
Whats the final plans for the rest of 2009 I hear rumors that your going to this and that race, whats it looking like and what companies are supporting you and helping the dream?
Plans for 09' are to hit as many nationals as possible, or as many as my sponsors and budget will let me. Psykopath has been my long term ride and as for right now I am still getting helped out by Carl and the team which is greatly appreciated. A new co sponsor for me for 09 is Taco Bravo. They are helping me out huge and getting me to races that I normally wouldnt get to without them. I wanna thank everyone at Taco Bravo for the help and also my clothing sponsor STRIP clothing for keeping me fitted with some fresh threads.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Austen Lee Explains...
Full Name:Austen D. Lee
Where ya from:San Jose, born and raised
Years racing:18...yes, I started when I was 3
Favorite spot:Anywhere I can ride and have fun
Favorite Pro/AM: Pro-Steven Cisar Am-Rusty Nesvig
Favorite Local Rider: Matt Trujillo
Give us a little background on how you got into BMX and went from up and coming grom kid to up and coming Pro?
I started racing big wheels at Santa Clara PAL while my brother was racing 5&under novice. Once I got my training wheels off and my dad finished shortening my cranks, I was out at Sunol BMX track. Its all been a blur up to me turning Pro in 2006. I was at the Blackjack nationals and felt great during practice and decided to make the jump. BMX has been great for me the past 18 years.
Getting to the vital questions well jump right into it, yourself and Lubbe had some good battles at the initial pro/am race. What are your thoughts on the level of competition?
I was surprised with how many people showed up to race and to watch. With the number of riders, I think we put on a good show for the local crowd, most of which haven't seen the national competition we experience. Overall, the competition was better than I had expected. A few people surprised me by making it and not making it to the main. Its only going to get more competitive as the season goes on.
You were coming in pretty hot into that last turn alot of people thought we were going to see a bump and run... Angle wasnt right possibly?
During the entire night, I knew it was going to come down to Gavin and I. I was close going into the first turn and he pulled away on the second straight. I knew my rythm is one of the strongest at PAL so was trying to set up and move in the last turn. I tried to double manual out of the rythm and bonked a little and I knew it was either take both of us out or hit the brakes and keep us both up. Looking back now, I really wish I would have stuck with it and see what happens.
Seeing as PAL has no shortage of both Single A riders AA's NAG Riders why do you think some of the bigger guns decided to duck you guys?
PAL definitely has some talent. I know Mike Hughes was busy with other plans that night. As for everyone else, I guess it was too cold or windy for them. I hope to see them out there for the next one.
What amateur if any was a standout for possibly a good finish or maybe even the win, and well go ahead and say that night and possibly what amateur do you see having a good season for the whole series?
Nick V always is a threat no matter where you are but I think Matt Trujillo is going to have the best series. He has impressed me everytime we do a Pro-Am. I think he can only get better and sooner or later, he'll be battling with some of the top guys.
What races can we watch for you at this year and whos helping you get around and make a run at a solid pro season?
Sadly, i'm not going to be at too many races this season. I am getting married in July so that kind of puts a damper on some funding. For sure I'll be at ABA's Oregon national, Bakersfield,Roseville, Reno in September, and possibly the Golden State depending on where it is. I plan to hit the NBL's Fresno and Prunedale nationals.
Thanks/Shoutouts-
First off I'd like to thank my future wife Cristina for understanding how important BMX is to me, my parents for getting me into the sport and financing 15 years of it, my brother for pushing me when needed and helping me out when it comes race time, Nick V for promoting these races and all he has done for the local scene, Steve at Bandit for supplying bike parts at the track, the entire Hughes family for taking the reigns at PAL and putting on a great facility year after years, all the volunteers at PAL, and lastly everyone who comes to PAL.
Where ya from:San Jose, born and raised
Years racing:18...yes, I started when I was 3
Favorite spot:Anywhere I can ride and have fun
Favorite Pro/AM: Pro-Steven Cisar Am-Rusty Nesvig
Favorite Local Rider: Matt Trujillo
Give us a little background on how you got into BMX and went from up and coming grom kid to up and coming Pro?
I started racing big wheels at Santa Clara PAL while my brother was racing 5&under novice. Once I got my training wheels off and my dad finished shortening my cranks, I was out at Sunol BMX track. Its all been a blur up to me turning Pro in 2006. I was at the Blackjack nationals and felt great during practice and decided to make the jump. BMX has been great for me the past 18 years.
Getting to the vital questions well jump right into it, yourself and Lubbe had some good battles at the initial pro/am race. What are your thoughts on the level of competition?
I was surprised with how many people showed up to race and to watch. With the number of riders, I think we put on a good show for the local crowd, most of which haven't seen the national competition we experience. Overall, the competition was better than I had expected. A few people surprised me by making it and not making it to the main. Its only going to get more competitive as the season goes on.
You were coming in pretty hot into that last turn alot of people thought we were going to see a bump and run... Angle wasnt right possibly?
During the entire night, I knew it was going to come down to Gavin and I. I was close going into the first turn and he pulled away on the second straight. I knew my rythm is one of the strongest at PAL so was trying to set up and move in the last turn. I tried to double manual out of the rythm and bonked a little and I knew it was either take both of us out or hit the brakes and keep us both up. Looking back now, I really wish I would have stuck with it and see what happens.
Seeing as PAL has no shortage of both Single A riders AA's NAG Riders why do you think some of the bigger guns decided to duck you guys?
PAL definitely has some talent. I know Mike Hughes was busy with other plans that night. As for everyone else, I guess it was too cold or windy for them. I hope to see them out there for the next one.
What amateur if any was a standout for possibly a good finish or maybe even the win, and well go ahead and say that night and possibly what amateur do you see having a good season for the whole series?
Nick V always is a threat no matter where you are but I think Matt Trujillo is going to have the best series. He has impressed me everytime we do a Pro-Am. I think he can only get better and sooner or later, he'll be battling with some of the top guys.
What races can we watch for you at this year and whos helping you get around and make a run at a solid pro season?
Sadly, i'm not going to be at too many races this season. I am getting married in July so that kind of puts a damper on some funding. For sure I'll be at ABA's Oregon national, Bakersfield,Roseville, Reno in September, and possibly the Golden State depending on where it is. I plan to hit the NBL's Fresno and Prunedale nationals.
Thanks/Shoutouts-
First off I'd like to thank my future wife Cristina for understanding how important BMX is to me, my parents for getting me into the sport and financing 15 years of it, my brother for pushing me when needed and helping me out when it comes race time, Nick V for promoting these races and all he has done for the local scene, Steve at Bandit for supplying bike parts at the track, the entire Hughes family for taking the reigns at PAL and putting on a great facility year after years, all the volunteers at PAL, and lastly everyone who comes to PAL.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Local Talent A Pro- J Fil Speaks Out!
Full Name? Jayson Filingeri
Where you from? San Jose
Years Racing? 8...off and on
Favorite Local Rider? Nick Valencia
National Rider? Connor Fields
Favorite Local Track/Spot? Santa Clara Pal by default
Normal riding crew? Mike Hughes, Z man, Matt Amato, Ricky Rinauro, and every once in a while Nick is down to ride.
1. A couple people had you pegged for the overall win at the last pro am event... what happened to ya? You asked my girlfriend and my mom...not that they're biased. Seriously though, there was some really good comp that showed up, which made for some great racing.
2.With a full 10 race series do you think this will help some of the ams coming up and keep you on your toes inbetween nationals? I definitely think these races benefit the Ams a lot. Chasing someone down is the best way to get faster, and being able to go home saying you made the main over a couple pros is another great incentive/confidence booster. For me, I am excited because I only hit a handful of nationals so this gives me a lot more racing throughout the season.
3. First straight pull or full track skill? When I was younger I thought full track skill was awesome and that it was all that really mattered. However, it seems like at each national track there is less passing and you need to get into that first turn in front.
4. Who do you see as a threat and maybe big time up and comer in the next year or so? I think it is going to be awesome to watch kids like Rusty Nesvig and Riley Stair start battling it out in A pro in a few years, there are too many fast kids now a days it is hard to keep track.
5. Anybody surprise you at that first race? My only surprise was that Bob Coover wasn't in the main...he is capable of getting on that podium on a good night.
6.Plans for 09? You gonna make a bid at the pro am title word on the street is plenty of cash and prizes... I definitely plan to ride the pro am circuit, it is going to be a blast. If ABA isn't careful it might turn into the place to be rather than driving to nationals, especially with the economy and the fact this series should end up being one you can't miss.
7. 2009 sponsors and thanks? Psykopath for getting me on some great frames, my girlfriend, friends, and family.
Where you from? San Jose
Years Racing? 8...off and on
Favorite Local Rider? Nick Valencia
National Rider? Connor Fields
Favorite Local Track/Spot? Santa Clara Pal by default
Normal riding crew? Mike Hughes, Z man, Matt Amato, Ricky Rinauro, and every once in a while Nick is down to ride.
1. A couple people had you pegged for the overall win at the last pro am event... what happened to ya? You asked my girlfriend and my mom...not that they're biased. Seriously though, there was some really good comp that showed up, which made for some great racing.
2.With a full 10 race series do you think this will help some of the ams coming up and keep you on your toes inbetween nationals? I definitely think these races benefit the Ams a lot. Chasing someone down is the best way to get faster, and being able to go home saying you made the main over a couple pros is another great incentive/confidence booster. For me, I am excited because I only hit a handful of nationals so this gives me a lot more racing throughout the season.
3. First straight pull or full track skill? When I was younger I thought full track skill was awesome and that it was all that really mattered. However, it seems like at each national track there is less passing and you need to get into that first turn in front.
4. Who do you see as a threat and maybe big time up and comer in the next year or so? I think it is going to be awesome to watch kids like Rusty Nesvig and Riley Stair start battling it out in A pro in a few years, there are too many fast kids now a days it is hard to keep track.
5. Anybody surprise you at that first race? My only surprise was that Bob Coover wasn't in the main...he is capable of getting on that podium on a good night.
6.Plans for 09? You gonna make a bid at the pro am title word on the street is plenty of cash and prizes... I definitely plan to ride the pro am circuit, it is going to be a blast. If ABA isn't careful it might turn into the place to be rather than driving to nationals, especially with the economy and the fact this series should end up being one you can't miss.
7. 2009 sponsors and thanks? Psykopath for getting me on some great frames, my girlfriend, friends, and family.
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