Out of the Blue: Liz Burke

By Jeff McConkey

 

Name: Liz Burke

Birthday: October 30th,1997

Hometown: Rollobay, PEI

School & Grade:  Grade 12

Number: 108

Bike: 2013 KX 250f

Race Club: Atlantic Motocross

Classes: Ladies, Junior, GP

Let's get to know Liz Burke. - Ashley Hilling photo

Let’s get to know Liz Burke. – Ashley Hilling photo

How did you get started in racing?
Well, my brother raced for a number of years, and once I got on a bike I was hooked on riding. And I’ve been doing it ever since.

As a little girl, did you ever expect to be this deep into a sport like motocross?
I would have never thought I would be. When I was little, it wasn’t that important to me. But as I got older, I became way more involved in this sport, and I just loved it more and more.

Do you think motocross is harder for a female to compete in?
It definitely is where I come from because there are so few women, but it’s getting better with all the new opportunities for women riders.

Who is your favourite rider and why?
I’d have to say Eli Tomac.  He pushes so hard for what he wants and has good sportsmanship on and off the track.

Is there one lady racer out there that you think has paved the way for other girls to be successful in the sport?
Jolene Van Vugt…she is an awesome rider and has showed that girls can do anything guys can do.

Liz looks up to Jolene Van Vugt who paved the way for women motocross riders in Canada. - Ashley Hilling photo

Liz looks up to Jolene Van Vugt who paved the way for women motocross riders in Canada. – Ashley Hilling photo

What Canadian Pro do you look up to and why?
Tyler Medaglia. He always pushes to achieve what he wants and rides with a lot of heart.

What is your favourite track and why?
MX 207. I love the soil and the track layout is wicked.

Who is your hero?
My hero would have to my mom and dad. They’ve done everything for me and taught  me everything I know.

What are your goals for next season?
To ride my best in the Women East Nationals and not get hurt.

What are your biggest accomplishments?
Racing the Women’s Nationals and winning races in the States.

What is your favourite part about going to the races?
It would have to be the families and your friends. It’s like my second home.

Like most, her parents are her heroes. - Ashley Hilling photo

Like most, her parents are her heroes. – Ashley Hilling photo

What do you like to do when you aren’t racing?
Keep fit during the winter and play lots of other sports.

Is it important to have a motocross racer as a boyfriend/husband, or just a bonus?
Definitely a bonus to be able to share something you love so much with your husband is awesome.

If you ever have children, will they be motocross racers?
I definitely  hope so, but, in the end, it’s their choice.

Who do you want to thank?
I would like to thank my mom, dad and my brother, G Borques, Toy Master, Just Joes, Boldgers Motorsports, Decal Works, and C4MX.