125: Taylor Mackenzie - Q&A
by Firsty Ayusha
Taylor Mackenzie, son of former grand prix rider and multiple BSB champion Niall Mackenzie, raced for Phonica Racing Team in the 125cc World championship this year.
'T-Mack' finished his first full grand prix season in 24th place, having suffered injuries along the way...
Q:
When did you think you might be able to race as a career?
Taylor Mackenzie:
From when I was very small, I have always ridden bikes. But it wasn't until I was 14 that I began to race. From that point I've tried my hardest in everything I do. So I don't know the exact point, but winning has always been the only option!
Q:
What are your thoughts on 2011 season?
Taylor Mackenzie:
It's been a very difficult season. But I just want to take the positives from it. The best moment was getting a fifth place in Jerez, in only my second race.
Q:
How do you learn tracks?
Taylor Mackenzie:
I study videos on YouTube of laps of the track. As well as completing a lot of laps on a scooter the day before the practice.
Q:
Which is your favourite circuit?
Taylor Mackenzie:
My favourite track is Aragon in Spain.
Q:
What's your favourite bike you have ridden so far?
Taylor Mackenzie:
The Yamaha R6! It is fast, but still small enough to have fun!
Q:
Who are your racing heroes?
Taylor Mackenzie:
Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner, they have amazing talent!
Q:
What's the worst injury you've had racing?
Taylor Mackenzie:
Probably breaking my collar bone, I had to have metal inserted into it to fix it. Also pulling the muscle off my shoulder in Estoril this year was really painful.
Q:
Which one you like the most, Twitter or Facebook?
Taylor Mackenzie:
Now I prefer Twitter, it is cool to see what celebrities are doing!
Q:
Other things you like to do besides riding bikes?
Taylor Mackenzie:
I go cycling a lot. But anything with wheels or an engine is fun!
Q:
Tell us about "Mysquares"?
Taylor Mackenzie:
I started the campaign as a quick and unique way to try and help fund my racing. You can placing your own image on my 2012 AGV GP Tech helmet. See my website taylor-mackenzie.com
Taylor Mackenzie stats:
DOB: 24/02/1993
Age: 18
Height: 173cm
Weight: 58kg
Nationality: Scottish
Born: Stirling, Scotland
Lives: Ashby, England
Nickname: T-Mack
Favourite Food: Italian
Likes: Crossing the line first, laughing, seeing the world
Dislikes: Ryanair baggage allowance, Ryanair queues, trying to get to sleep on Ryanair flights
Peter has been in the paddock for 20 years and has seen Valentino Rossi come and go. He is at the forefront of the Suzuki exit story and Marc Marquez’s injury issues.
