Four years ago, I started living in my van and spending my winters riding in California. It’s been 2 years now since I have gotten back to competing internationally.
What does BMX Flatland means to you? For me, BMX Flatland is a way of living. I organize my day around my sessions. Everything that I do throughout my day is geared to helped me be the best athlete I can be. BMX Flatland keeps me disciplined, and gives me purpose and motivation to help me get through the obstacles of life. When I am riding my bike, I go into focus mode - it's like a meditative state.
Can you tell us more about your Flatland Training? I usually start the morning with a short meditation, drink my collagen and do a yoga/mobility workout. After this, I eat some eggs and prepare for my first session. I use the first session as a warm up and start working on my contest routine. After my first session, I do some stretching, eat a healthy lunch and relax a little in order to prepare for my second one. The second session is when I work on new tricks and harder stuff. I feel really accomplished when this is done. At the end of the day, I go to enjoy the sunset, recover with some more healthy food and rest in order to be top shape for the next day.
What is your goal for the future? My goal is to ride until I am 55-60. I’d like to have a head full of white hair and still be able to execute a smooth combo and do school shows. I also aspire to keep and improve my minimalistic approach to life. I want to keep traveling for a good part of my life; I have to see and experience new things to refuel my drive. I know at some point my energy level might go down but I want to make sure I am giving myself the best chance to be able to continue this lifestyle at an older age.
What are your favourites bike parts and why? First, I would say my Reklamation Bikes’ Juicy Focus Handlebars. Everything from the upsweep, the height and the holes in the tube that make the bar lighter, is fantastic. Also, I just got these new alienation titanium wheels at the end of last year and I am still excited to ride them. My bike is now at 17.5 pounds and its great. My body is thanking me a lot for these upgrades. I am still very excited about my Jason Plourde Rogue Frame, this was a limited series and it feels so sturdy and light. It is just a killer machine to be on with Ox Platinum tubes.
Any final words? Thanks to everyone who has helped me achieve this path and lifestyle. I am very grateful that BMX Flatland got in my path at an early age. Follow your dream and don’t be scared to jump into the unknown...