Interview: Broc Hepler - Factory Yamaha

By: Motocross.com

Posted: 03/20/09

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Words: Kristen Beat - Photos: Jeff Kardas

Broc Hepler had his best race of the season at the Superdome in New Orleans just this last weekend. At the end of the main event, Broc crossed the finish line in third. For the number 60 Yamaha rider, this season has been anything but a walk in the park, yet with perseverance Broc continues to prove that he is a competitive rider.

I had a chance to catch up with Broc over the phone this week, this is what he had to say about the season so far:

Can you tell us a little bit about the race in New Orleans?
It actually went a little bit better than expected, I haven't been practicing too well and even the heat race didn't go too hot. I just got a good start and was able to run up front and follow those guys a few laps. It gave me some good enough lines and speed and I was able to hold onto third for the race.

Hepler was all smiles on the
podium on New Orleans.
Click here for more photos.

How did it feel when you crossed the finish line?
I definitely felt like I fulfilled my goal. There are a lot of fast guys. I've been hurt a lot and I didn't think it would come that quick. So now that I have it I just have to keep it going.

Have you changed your training or race preparation at all this season?
Actually since the off season, I've been training with Ryan Hughes and he's been getting me stronger for the 450's, so I can throw it around easier. I was always just a cardio guy but now I do more strength training, so now I have some more muscle and it's definitely helping with the 450.

How did you feel after breaking your collarbone at A1?
It was like another attempt at a good season, I mean I had a great off-season and it's just I did two or three months training for nothing again. It's kind of a heart breaker again, just to know I was pretty well prepared and before it even got started it was all over again, so that wasn't too fun.

Have you ever had any self doubt or wondered if this is really your place, after so many devastating injuries?
I guess, but if it wasn't, I wouldn't be in my 6th professional year so I think I've had a pretty good career already. I just need to keep it rolling. I've got a few wins already and I just need to stay injury free.

What keeps you motivated?
I'm a sore loser, I hate to lose. It's easy for me to be motivated. Plus I don't want to work a normal job someday, so I think it's a fair trade. I'd rather put in a few hard motos and ride my motorcycle for a living.

Does the number of injuries you've had in your career ever make you nervous when you line up at the gate?
Everyone gets nervous lining up for the line. It's especially been tough because I haven't been real fast in practice. I know I need to step it up and go faster, and it's hard to be confident when you know you need to pick up a second here or there. I just need to become a little better at the races so I can get that confidence.

What is your primary race-day focus?
Up until I get to the race I almost don't even think about it. Once you start thinking about it more, it just gets you nervous. I have to just know I've done everything I can up until this point so there's no second guessing or regrets.

Are we going to see you on the podium again this season?
I think so, we have six more races left and I've improved every race. Hopefully I can keep getting good starts and be back up there before the end of the season.

What do you like to do when you are not riding?
I'm pretty good at some X-Box games, I've actually got Rockband 2 now. I've been working a lot on playing drums so maybe I want to be a rockstar when I'm not racing. I do everything normal; go to the movies, go bowling, normal teenager, young-adult stuff.

Best of luck this season B-Hep!
Thanks

(KB Note: Between us, Broc also shared with me that he enjoys modeling Speedos, but he didn't want to brag during his interview.)

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