Out of the Blue: Alexandra Raymond
By Jeff McConkey
Name: Alexandra Raymond
Birthday: August 7th, 1993
Hometown: Granby, Quebec
Occupation: I currently have my own business where I do nails and fake lashes. Although, I would like to go back to school to become an elementary teacher.
Number: Ever since I have started motocross my number has always been 15, but this year I race in nationals with #5.
Bike: KTM 250F
Race club: AMXQ, Challenge QC, CMRC
Classes: Women
Let’s get to know Alexandra Raymond. – Bigwave photo
Direct Motocross: How did you get started in racing?
I started motocross at the age of 5. My dad used to ride a bike and he is the one who introduced me to this sport. I am very thankful since I can’t imagine my life without racing. A while after, I started racing and at that time I would compete with boys. I was so scared that I even remember telling my dad on the gate that I didn’t want to go anymore. Today, I thank him for his encouragements that kept me from stepping back.
As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
Yes, as I mentioned before I started motocross at the age of 5 so my life revolves around racing ever since that age and it has always been a part of me. Therefore, I knew I was passionate about motocross and I would have high standards when performing my sport.
Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
Not anymore. I know there were stereotypes about that and there always will be. I think that us, women, have proven what we can do and we can work as hard as men both on and off the track.
“I think that us, women, have proven what we can do and we can work as hard as men both on and off the track.” – Bigwave photo
Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
Ashley Fiolek, for sure! I admire how she succeeds in this sport even with her condition. She proves how not only women can be good riders, but also how a person with a handicap can go as far in this sport.
What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
I think that they’re all good riders and they give all they got to get to where they are today. I don’t have a favorite rider, but I spent my childhood with Kaven Benoit. He’s the one that made me learn the most throughout my career and I am grateful for all the things he did for me. It’s fun to see that he managed to get that far in this sport.
“…I spent my childhood with Kaven Benoit. He’s the one that made me learn the most throughout my career…” – Bigwave photo
What is your favourite track and why?
Ste-Julie! It’s really the kind of track I like and I always have good races when I compete there.
Who is your hero?
My dad! I am lucky to have this great man in my life that guides me every day. If only I could have half of his great personality. Seeing him smiling after I have a good race because he is proud of me is priceless!
What are your goals for this season?
My goal for this season is to get an even better ranking at the nationals.
What are your biggest accomplishments?
A few years ago at Ste-Julie I managed to finish 3rd at a women’s national. That same year I finished 3rd overall in the National Championship and I won both of my Provincial Championships. I was so proud and I still am!
Alexandra (left) on the podium at the 2015 Parts Canada TransCan with Eve Brodeur. – Bigwave photo
What is your favourite part about going to the races?
My favourite part about going to the races is the way it makes me feel alive! There is no other time of my life that I feel as good as when I’m at the races. It is so gratifying! Even when I’m not racing I like it as much. Last weekend I went to Moncton as a spectator to see the men’s national and I loved my experience.
What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
I like to train to stay fit and keep active. I also like to hang out with my family and friends. I enjoy listening to country music, riding my pony, shopping, going to the movies and cooking.
Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/partner, or just a bonus?
Well, I think that athletes have a very different lifestyle than normal people. Having said that, I think that it’s less complicated when both people live the same lifestyle, since it’s easier to understand the other person and it simplifies many things. I have to admit that it’s more fun to be with someone that shares the same passion as you!
“I have to admit that it’s more fun to be with someone that shares the same passion as you!” – Bigwave photo
If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
For sure! I can’t really force them but if they show interest for that sport I would be glad to see them grow up in this beautiful world of racing. I think that motocross brings a certain discipline so it must feel reassuring for a parent!
Who do you want to thank?
First of all, my amazing parents! I will never thank them enough for all the sacrifices and efforts they have done for me. I would also like to thank all my friends, family and everyone that have always been there to encourage me. A big thank you to Motovan for all their support. Thanks to Duroy Racing, WKLN, Interplus, La Ville de Granby, A8G Puisatiers Experts, Pompes AMR, Puits Lajeunesse, Kutvek and my mechanics Guillaume.
