GNCC Racing

Tuesday Toolbox: Kyle Chaney

Tuesday Toolbox: Kyle Chaney

Tuesday, November 11, 2014 | 10:00 AM
by:
Tuesday, November 11, 2014 | 10:00 AM

Kyle Chaney put in an excellent 2014 season and came away at the UTV National Champion. However, it was no easy task as he went up against the likes of some of the best UTV pilots on the planet. We caught up with Kyle to talk about his title and more.

GNCCRacing.com: How's everything going today?
Kyle Chaney: I'm doing good! My co-pilot just came out from Pennsylvania and shot a good buck on one of our properties in Ohio today, so it’s been pretty good for sure.

Chaney's season didn't start out great, but he knew what he would have to do in the remaining races to win
Chaney's season didn't start out great, but he knew what he would have to do in the remaining races to win Photo: Ken Hill

So first off, how does it feel to be the UTV National Champion?
Actually I don't really know how most national champions feel, but I feel no different. The championship was awesome, it's what I've always wanted, but it's over and I’ve already put 2014 behind me and we all start out with 0 points for 2015. So I feel like everyone else out there preparing for 2015.

Tell us more about how your season went.
My season started out a little rough with a run in with a tree in Georgia. I knew I could still win the championship, but I’d have to finish strong in the remaining 5 races. So my team put in the extra hours and that's what we did, with 4 podiums and 3 straight wins.

What was it like battling with those guys all season?
The GNCC series is so stacked. In my opinion, the most talented UTV racers are in this series. Anyone can mash a foot pedal, but to do it with trees ½ inch on each side of the buggy takes major focus. Anyone that can finish a GNCC in my opinion is a good driver.

Kyle Chaney pictured with co-pilot, Chris Bithell, wrapped up the 2014 title at the last round of the season in Crawfordsville, IN.
Kyle Chaney pictured with co-pilot, Chris Bithell, wrapped up the 2014 title at the last round of the season in Crawfordsville, IN. Photo: Ken Hill

You mention the GNCC UTV drivers being so talented, what's it like to beat the likes of some of most dominating UTV riders the series has seen?
The top drivers know who they are and it's a blast racing with them. Some of the things you watch these machines do is amazing.

So how did you get into UTV Racing?
I used to race bikes. I won a B class championship when I was 15 and when I stepped up to A class I had quite a few wins and overall amateurs. But I was fighting bad knees. 5 knee surgeries later I had the passion and skill to race, but my knees said no way. That's when I started racing Side-by-Sides. After 3 races I was lucky enough to be picked up by Can-Am. Guess they saw some potential in me? I'm glad they did, they’re a great company to work with.

Do you feel like your success on a bike has been a big help in your success as a UTV racer?
Racing in general has helped me for sure. In UTV racing, it's a lot about reading trail and how to be fast and put less stress on the UTV.

Chaney plans to not miss a podium spot in the 2015 season
Chaney plans to not miss a podium spot in the 2015 season Photo: Ken Hill

So what are your plans for 2015?
My plans for 2015 are to be on the podium every race, and to bring home another championship.

Where do you see the future of UTV racing going?
UTV racing is getting so popular. It's growing fast and I don't see it slowing down anytime soon.

What do you hope to accomplish down the road?
My goal is to race for as long as I'm having fun. When it stops being fun and turns into a job I'll retire. I have enough jobs to worry about. Every race is like a mini vacation to me.

Congratulations to Kyle Chaney for his 2014 GNCC UTV National Championship!
Congratulations to Kyle Chaney for his 2014 GNCC UTV National Championship! Photo: Ken Hill

Alright, before we wrap this up, who would you like to thank?
I would like to thank Can-Am for sticking with me this long! I'm sure I'm a pain sometimes. My Mechanic Marshall has put a solid Maverick together for me every race. Turnkey UTV builds the highest quality aftermarket hard parts for a Maverick. Fox Shocks, SSI Decals, AMSOIL, Yoshimura, Beard Seats, Super ATV, my dad, girlfriend, and grandparents for praying for me every time I go out on the track, and anyone else I may have forgotten.