In this conversation, Canadian ISDE Junior Trophy Team leader Owen McKill discusses his transition to Sherco racing, his experiences in the FMSQ series, and the growth of off-road racing in Canada. He reflects on his racing journey, the challenges of competing in different series, and the importance of preparation for the ISDE. Owen shares insights on the differences between FMSQ and GNCC racing, the impact of his early influences, and the significance of bike setup and training in his racing career. In this conversation, Owen McKill discusses the challenges and opportunities in off-road racing, particularly in Canada. He emphasizes the importance of mastering technical skills, the potential for expanding Canadian off-road racing opportunities, and the desire to attract U.S. talent. The conversation also touches on the future of off-road racing, the significance of support systems, and the adaptation to new equipment. Owen shares his aspirations for racing in Europe and the competitive landscape of Canadian motorsport.

Takeaways

• Owen McKill is excited for the challenges of the upcoming racing season.
• He transitioned to Sherco to align with his racing goals.
• FMSQ racing is significantly different from racing on the West Coast.
• The growth of off-road racing in Canada is at an all-time high.
• Owen's experiences racing on the East Coast have built his confidence.
• He emphasizes the importance of bike setup for different racing formats.
• Owen's early influences shaped his aggressive riding style.
• He believes in the value of racing smaller bikes for skill development.
• The SOR Sprint series is crucial for preparing for ISDE.
• Owen feels fortunate to have opportunities to race internationally. Learning to go fast in technical sections is crucial.
• FMSQ helps improve riding skills for off-road racing.
• Attracting U.S. talent can enhance Canadian racing.
• The off-road racing industry is undergoing significant changes.
• Building a continental championship is a goal for the future.
• Community growth is essential for Canadian off-road racing.
• Experiencing European racing is a career aspiration.
• Second place is not the goal; winning is the focus.
• Support from sponsors and teams is vital for success.
• Adapting to new bikes and settings is part of the racing journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings

05:55 Comparing FMSQ and GNCC Racing

12:01 Racing Experiences and Learning Curves

17:49 Early Influences and Getting Started in Racing

24:03 Preparing for the Upcoming Racing Season

29:00 Expanding Canadian Off-Road Opportunities

35:14 The Allure of Racing in Europe

40:30 Setting Goals and Expectations in Racing

49:01 Looking Ahead: The Future of Canadian Off-Road Racing