FISE Hiroshima
interview with BMX champion Hannah Roberts
01 Dec 2017
12:46
“Don’t give up before you try”: An interview with BMX champion Hannah Roberts
2017 has been a remarkable year for BMX teen sensation Hannah Roberts. The American has already won both the UCI BMX Freestyle Park Women’s World Cup and the World Championship this year and looks destined for greater things. We had a quick catch up with her and spoke about her recent successes and what lies ahead for 2018.
When did you first get into BMX?
I started riding when I was eight years old, so around 8 and a half years ago.
You are 2017 UCI BMX Freestyle Park Women’s World Cup Winner.
What was the FISE World Series like for you this year and where does it stack up in the world of BMX contests?
FISE is such a huge contest because there is no other like it, so it's definitely one of the most important series to me. This year FISE was fun - but also a huge learning experience!
Your life must be pretty hectic going to school and as well doing all of these competitions. How do you balance between the two?
I try to do my school work on the few days off that we get at events, but my teachers are really helpful and understand when it comes to me being gone.
Which BMX rider is your biggest inspiration and why?
I look up to all the riders because they are all unique in some way. But, I have always looked up to Colton [Walker] because we have been riding together for many years. He is an amazing friend and destroys it on the bike.
The ladies on the BMX scene seem to be a pretty close and get on well with each other. What do you lot do in your downtime when you aren’t training or competing?
If I’m not riding usually I am sleeping or hanging out with my friends.
What do you see in the future of Women’s BMX?
The women have been killing it this year! As for the future, I see a lot more progression on our side of the sport. Hopefully there will also be more girls getting into riding.
What advice would you give to aspiring female BMX riders?
Don’t ever give up before you try - you never know what’s going to happen until you give it a shot.
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