NEED FOR SPEED CONTINUED
“ I AM SO LUCKY TO HAVE FOUND WHAT I LOVE AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE, AND MY FAMILY MEMBERS ARE DEFINITELY MY BIGGEST FANS— THEY SUPPORT ME 100 PERCENT!”
Lynn’ s Amateur Nationals, but only 42 make it to the gate.“ After several qualifying races, making it to Loretta Lynn’ s Amateur Nationals suggests that you are among the fastest 42 kids in the nation,” says Towers.“ It was a pretty amazing feeling to place seventh in such a competitive amateur race!”
Towers races other kids his age in the 85 cc ages 9 to 11, and 85 cc ages 9 to 12 modified divisions. This year Loretta Lynn’ s Amateur Nationals, eight of the top 10 competitors were home-schooled, train full-time and live in warm climate areas. Even though Towers did not have these luxuries, his talents still took him to the top 10.
Towers has recruited a number of sponsors including his parents, MPR Racing, Rach Tech, Cernic’ s, MX tire. com, 6d Helmets, Alias MX Gear, Atlas Braces, FMF, Oakley Goggles, TCB Construction, THH Properties, Dunlop Tires and MX Graphics. While these sponsors do not give Towers money directly, as he is currently a true amateur, they give him products and perks to help defray costs.
“ Racing Motocross at the level I do is insanely expensive,” says Towers.“ If I told you what my parents spend on this hobby, many people would probably think they are crazy!” Expenses can include an array of things from a motorhome to a trailer, multiple race bikes, pit bike and even a golf cart or Zuma / moped to run errands while at the tracks. Furthermore, owning Motocross bikes means maintenance and purchasing parts, which can also rack up a hefty bill.
As strong as his passion is, Towers realizes there are many risks involved in Motocross. Injuries can range from broken bones to torn ligaments, concussions and more.“ It’ s really not a matter of if, it’ s when,” says Towers.“ I try not to think about getting hurt, but it happens— it’ s all part of the sport!”
Towers and his dad spend countless hours traveling to races all over the country. His mom and sister come when they can and make sure to attend all of the big races. Towers’ favorite track is the Baja Acres Motocross in Michigan.“ It’ s a sandy track and I love those,” he says.
Towers’ continues to train hard as he prepares for the Mini-O’ s race in Gainesville, FL, later this year and multiple national races next year.“ Next year will be the biggest travel year for us to date!” says Towers. The young racer is already looking toward pursuing his passion professionally.“ That’ s the plan!” he says with a grin.“ I am so lucky to have found what I love at such a young age, and my family members are definitely my biggest fans— they support me 100 percent!” n
52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Peters Township