"Being airborne, the excitement and competition," were the answers given by a smiling 11-year-old Nicholas Lesko when asked what he likes best about the sport of motocross racing.
Motocross racing is a form of motorcycle sport or all-terrain vehicle racing held on enclosed off-road circuits, according to the definition from Wikipedia.
Novice rider Nicholas, son of Ryan Lesko of Hafford, admits that when he saw "how awesome it looked," he wanted to try it. It was evident in his expression that he has been pondering the fact for a while; after all, there is something about boys, bikes, dirt and racing that gets the adrenaline going.
Nicholas approached his father in the spring with his dream, and following some research, telephone calls, training and the purchase of a membership from the Canadian Motosport Racing Corporation (CMRC), Nicholas was well on his way to fulfilling his first year on the motocross circuit.
Once a CMRC member, Nicholas was permitted to participate in the 11 scheduled races that are held throughout the province from Coronach and Swift Current to Kindersley and Lloydminster. Nicholas attended nine of the 11 circuit events where participation and placement points are accumulated.
Once donned in his motocross racing apparel consisting of: helmet; gloves; goggles; boots; shoulder, chest, elbow and kneepads; jersey and pants, it is difficult to recognize this master of the track. However, the chosen number, 717, and highly visible Lesko name on the bike is a giveaway.
Nicholas raced in the 2011 season using a 2009 two-stroke 85 cc Suzuki and competed in the 7-11 year age category riding 85cc bikes. Approximately 12 riders begin the race at once. Race completion is determined using the 12 minutes plus one lap method rather than the straight timed method. Weather conditions of excessive rain and strong winds are only two factors that would result in a postponed event. The decision to postpone events is for the safety of the riders.
His words of advice to other young individuals wishing to participate in the sport, "get the gear, get the bike and try it out."
A good rider has balance, judgment and good timing. Nicholas has proven these traits throughout the season, which concluded with a yearend banquet in Swift Current. Nicholas was presented with two outstanding trophies for his efforts and determination.
The first trophy was the Saskatchewan Motosport Association's (SMA) Sportsmanship Award (small wheel). He also received the Motocross Provincials CMRC 2011 Most Sportsman-Like Rider Small Wheel. This award is presented to the rider who has shown grace and humility-whether they win or lose, given encouragement and help, on and off the track, and simply for someone who 'participates' for the love of the ride. During the season, Nicholas also received the fifth place trophy in the 85cc age 7-11 category from the Regina Motocross Club.
To finish off the season Nicholas placed eighth out of 27 in the 85cc (7-11) and 11th out of 45 in the supermini. In the amateur national qualifier (ANQ) Nicholas placed ninth out of 13th in the 85cc (7-11) and 20th out of 27 in the supermini.
Nicholas has done well and his passion will continue to drive him to the next level of racing. He continues to keep his eyes focused on his peers of Kyle Biro and Broc Shury.
Next year? This novice rider plans on purchasing a 65cc bike for competition and to also continue competing in the 85cc category. Better be a racer for the moment than spectator for a lifetime.
