Many knowledgeable race watchers consider Kevin Windham to be one of the most naturally talented riders the sport has ever seen. Now a veteran at age 32, the GEICO Powersports Honda racer's textbook riding style has blended with all his experience to carry him to the forefront of title contention. Windham remains at the top of his game, finishing second in the 2008 Supercross series and fifth in 2009. Despite battling stiff competition from younger competitors, he continues to defy all odds in this young man's sport, running up front race after race—much to the delight of the stadium crowds.
"As long as I'm still enjoying myself out on the racetrack and I'm still competitive up front, I'll continue to race," says Windham. "I was successful in finishing on a number of Supercross podiums last season and only twice missed finishing in the top 10—I’m happy with those results. I had some ups and downs, but I was able to stay fairly consistent."
In 2010, the Mississippi native again tackles the Supercross Championship aboard his Honda CRF450R, but he will opt out of the outdoor season this year as he did in 2009. Many Windham fans wonder why he has chosen to opt out of Motocross, especially considering the abundant success he's enjoyed outdoors in past years—he was the series runner-up for six years between 1999 and 2006.
"I love Motocross racing, but there comes a point in every racer's career where you have to pull back and reduce your schedule in order to increase your longevity and be able to stick around for a few more years," he explains. "I did race a few outdoor races last year mainly for the enjoyment of racing Motocross, and that was a lot of fun. But my focus will remain on the Supercross series in 2010."
As a veteran leader of the GEICO Powersports Honda team, it is only fitting that his younger, less experienced teammates look up to him and draw from his wealth of racing knowledge.
"It's great to have some of the younger guys around, especially on the Lites program," says Windham. "I enjoy helping them out when I can. Their willingness to learn brings a youthful essence to the team, which I enjoy. I learn from them, they learn from me, and it works well. I'm also looking forward to having Mike LaRocco overseeing things this year. He is definitely going to be a big help to the younger riders."
Off the track, Windham remains dedicated to his wife Dottie and his four children. Being a family man has changed the way he views racing and his life.
"I’m very lucky to have a supportive family that encourages me to keep on racing. Knowing they are proud of my achievements both on and off the track, and always having them here for me after each race, is important. When I am done riding at the end of the day, they come out and go for a ride with me on the bike, and that makes me proud. I wouldn't want my life any other way."
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