On the Radar: Mitchell Frank
By Jeff McConkey
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Name: Mitchell Frank
Age: 14
Hometown: Haliburton, Ontario
School and Grade: Haliburton Highlands Secondary
School, Grade 9
Number: 279
Bike: 2016 Yamaha YZ250F
Race Club: MMRS
Classes: 250 Open, 250 C
This week, Haliburton, Ontario, rider, Mitchell Frank, is ‘On the Radar.’ – Harvey Gold photo
How did you get started in racing?
I bought a YZ85 and just used it on trails like a pit bike. We have a cottage friend that races at MMRS and he suggested that we come to the track for the day and see how it felt. After that day I was hooked!
What is your favourite track and why?
My favorite track is Cochrane’s. I like it because the track is super-smooth and has a sort of flow to it. I seem to ride it better than any other track. It’s also closer to home so the drive is shorter.
Who is your favourite rider and why?
Chad Reed and Ken Roczen are extremely close for me. I’d have to say Ken Roczen because I really like his riding style and dedication to the sport.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
I look up to Liam O’Farrell because he is one of the only Canadian Pro’s that I’ve seen ride the tracks that I also ride. He rarely makes mistakes and is super-smooth when he rides.
Mitchell’s biggest accomplishment? “I raced Supermini in the spring and summer series on a small-wheel 85 and consistently placed in the top 10.” – Harvey Gold photo
Who is your hero?
My hero is my father. He’s sacrificed so much for me to be able to race and pursue my dreams. I could never repay him for what he’s done for me. I hope to be the same way with my kids when I’m older.
What are your goals for this season, and what is it going to take to reach them?
My goal for this season is placing in the top 5 overall in 250 C. For me to reach these goals I will have to put an effort into exercising and working out as much as possible. Lots of seat time on the bike will also help greatly. I need to worry less about breaking my bike and push it harder.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
I raced Supermini in the spring and summer series on a small-wheel 85 and consistently placed in the top 10.
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
Riding my bike. Any stress or anger that I have goes away from the time I get on the bike and get off it. It gives me time to myself to think about anything that’s on my mind.
Mitchell’s favourite riders are Chad Reed, Ken Roczen, and Liam O’Farrell. – Harvey Gold photo
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
Pit bike, spend time with my friends at my cottage, BMX, mountain biking, and snowmobiling.
Who would you like to thank?
I’d like to thank most of all my dad, Nathan Brown at First Place Trailers, James Gourlay at Gourlay Performance Products, Chris Dillorenzo, Tia Brindle, Esson Lake Contracting and Gord Gilliat at Podium Grafix.
