Brian Kachinsky is a unique figure in the world of BMX. We had the opportunity to talk with him recently about life as a BMX pro. This is part II of that interview.
Read part I
What is the best thing about being a professional BMX rider?
The best thing BY FAR is the people you meet. I’ve met people from all around the world that I probably would never have met otherwise. When you meet people from
all over the world you naturally learn things about them, their country, their culture, etc. I’m so thankful to have friends around the globe and have had great times with them. I wouldn’t trade that for anything. I still keep in touch with almost all of them and am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to know so many awesome people.
What are some of the difficulties of being a BMX pro that people might not realize?
There are many challenges actually. Injuries, being self-employed, buying insurance, managing money, sorting out scheduling, etc etc. Basically being your own boss and being in control of your life is both satisfying but also very difficult. No one is telling me when to be at work or what to do on any given day so you really have to have some discipline and be self-motivated. There are also times where people don’t come through with promises and you learn that nothing is guaranteed. All of these things are life struggles that everyone has to deal with though. I just feel
very fortunate to wake up everyday (even if that means waking up really sore sometimes) and do what I love.
Looking back over your career, is there anything you would have done differently?
I don’t think I would have done much differently. Tons of good stuff has happened in my career and tons of bad stuff has happened. The bad stuff I have learned from and sometimes that’s the best way to learn. The good stuff that’s happened is something that no one can take away from me. The experiences I’ve had, things I’ve learned, places I’ve seen, friends I’ve made, products I’ve helped design, projects I’ve made happen, are all things that are a direct result of decisions I’ve made. I don’t dwell on the bad and I appreciate the good.
How long do you see yourself being able to ride as a pro like you currently do?
I see myself being able to push my riding for a long time still. I think half of it is physical and half is mental. I’ve learned what motivates me and I’ve also learned to make myself be an asset to those who support me regardless of injury or setbacks. I’m a team player and I think that’s the key in success for the long term. Time will tell but no matter what I’m doing I’ll always be happy.
Do you enjoy other kinds of bike riding?
I enjoy riding my commuter bike (Fairdale) sometimes around the city when I’m out cruising running errands or even searching for spots to ride BMX. Bikes, no matter what type, represent freedom to me. The freedom to explore on a bike isn’t something you can get in a car, on a plane, on a train, etc. Bikes to me are the ultimate freedom. No matter what type of bike I’m on I always have a smile on my face. BMX is still my number one though.
What do you do for fun when you’re not on a bike?
Tons! Anything from hanging out with friends, building things, fixing things, exploring, movies, theater, museums, reading, music, and more. Basically I’m never bored. There is always something fun to do and things to learn. I think enjoying life off your bike makes your time on your bike that much more exciting. If I only did just that one thing 100% of the time I think I wouldn’t appreciate it as much. When I’m healthy, however, riding is by far my favorite thing to do. All the other things I do just inspire my riding even more.
What final thoughts or advice would you have for a kid who thinks they might want to try for a career as a pro BMX rider?
My biggest advice is to always be appreciative of everything. The word “Thank You” goes a long way. Anytime anyone ever helps you out, compliments you, teaches you, or assists you in anyway just make sure to show your sincere appreciation.
I would also encourage younger riders to never stop learning and try to escape your comfort zone as often as possible. The best way to improve your riding and your life is to take on things that seem challenging and sometimes uncomfortable. Learn a new trick, take a class that seems hard, read something you know nothing about, go somewhere you never thought you’d go, and do all of that with an open mind. If you do that everyday, you’ll be better than you were yesterday.
Previous section: Growing Up in BMX- Part I of interview with Brian Kachinsky.
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