GNCC Racing

Tuesday Toolbox: Nikki Russell

Tuesday Toolbox: Nikki Russell

Wednesday, May 29, 2019 | 10:00 AM
by:
Wednesday, May 29, 2019 | 10:00 AM

Fifteen-year-old Nikki Russell is this week’s Tuesday Toolbox. She hails from Jamestown, Tennessee and is one of the most promising up-and-coming female off-road riders in the GNCC series, if not the country. In addition to winning every single Girls class race she’s entered this year, she also placed second last year in the Tennessee Knock Out, one of the most difficult races in the country. Keep your eye on Russell, we expect that she will be doing great things over the course of her riding career!

Nikki Russell currently sits second in the points standings in the Girls (8-15) class.
Nikki Russell currently sits second in the points standings in the Girls (8-15) class. Ken Hill

How did you get started riding?

When I was five years old, I really wanted a dirtbike because my dad had one. My parents finally got me one right after I learned to ride a bicycle

And then how did you get started racing?

I went to watch my dad race when I was younger. I thought it was really cool, and after seeing him, I had always wanted to race too. He finally let me race when I was eleven.

What made you want to try the GNCC series?

I first raced a series called KORHS, and then the MSXC. Since I was winning those against the boys, it made me believe I would be fast enough for GNCC.

Nikki has earned five race wins in a row, and is aiming to earn her sixth this weekend.
Nikki has earned five race wins in a row, and is aiming to earn her sixth this weekend. Ken Hill

Looks like you were right about that! So far, you’ve won every Girls class race you’ve entered. What are your goals for the rest of the season.

My goal is to win every race I come to, and get the championship too!

Now, most GNCC riders probably don’t know this, but you are a very talented Extreme    Enduro rider as well! In fact, you finished second in the Women’s class last year … on your supermini!

Yeah, the TKO was the most challenging race I’ve ever done! It was a really fun experience and I am very excited to do it again this year.

What are your goals for the rest of your riding career?

I want to someday compete in more extreme races all over the country! I also want to continue racing GNCC and hopefully be competing in WXC in the next few years!

Sounds like a great plan! Who would you like to thank?

I would like to thank God, my parents, Husqvarna and Gary’s Cycle Shop for all of their support

Nikki Russell grabbing the holeshot at Camp Coker Bullet.
Nikki Russell grabbing the holeshot at Camp Coker Bullet. Ken Hill