A: I turned pro at the end of 1994, 16 years ago, which is crazy because I’m turning 32. Basically, half my life has been spent racing in the pros. I started racing when I was three years old so Motocross has truly been a life-long adventure for me. It’s strange to think that Justin Barcia was born the year I went pro!

Q: How long do you think your racing career can span?

A: As long as I’m still enjoying myself out on the racetrack and I’m competitive up front, I’ll continue to race. I was successful in finishing on a number of Supercross podiums last season and only twice missed finishing in the top ten—I’m happy with those results. I had some ups and downs, but I was able to stay fairly consistent. As long as I can keep off the ground and keep finding the podium then I’m going to be around.

Q: How has the sport evolved over the years and how have you evolved with it?

A: In my career things have changed a lot, from the bikes we ride to the track layouts. The sport has grown so much over the years that the demands on the rider are no longer just about riding. Fans and the media play a big part these days. I’m very fortunate I’ve been able to experience a lot in my time. I’m currently fourth on the list for total race starts following Mike LaRocco, who I once teamed with. It’s been great but I’m not done yet. I want to continue doing what I’m doing with GEICO Powersports Honda. The sport is such a huge part of my life that I’m actually fearful of letting it go and losing the person I am and have been for so long.

Q: Because of your longevity in the sport you’ve become a mentor to many of the younger riders on your team. Explain your relationship with your fellow, much younger, team members.

A: Being a mentor to the much younger GEICO Powersports Honda riders is something I take a lot of pride in. I enjoy their enthusiasm and willingness to learn and I’m happy I can share my knowledge with them. They are also lucky to have Mike LaRocco on the team to learn from. Mike was on the team when I first came onboard and I was able to learn from him at that time. I’m always learning new things about racing but the years of experience Mike and I have can help them tremendously. There’s a lot of talent on our team and to be honest, I think they help me. The energy they have to chase their dreams makes me realize it’s never too late for me to reach my goals, even at the tail end of my career. Every race is important and I need to go to the line with the motivation to be on the podium. They are all great riders and to be at this level you have to be great. I’m always around to help them and I love watching them ride.

Q: You’ve decided once again to race only Supercross this year, which may have many fans wondering why, especially considering you were the series runner-up for six years between 1999 and 2006. Why did you come to this decision?

A: I love Motocross racing but there comes a point in every racer’s career where you have to pull back and reduce your schedule in order to increase your longevity and be able to stick around for a few more years. I did race a few outdoor races last year mainly for the enjoyment of racing Motocross and that was a lot of fun. But my focus will remain on the Supercross Series in 2010.

Q: Your family plays a very important part in your life both on and off the track. Explain why family is so important to you.

A: I’m very lucky to have a supportive family that encourages me to keep on racing. Knowing they are proud of my achievements both on and off the track, and always having them here for me after each race, is important. When I am done riding at the end of the day, they come out and go for a ride with me on the bike, and that makes me proud. Having a family does have both advantages and disadvantages; it’s really how you want to think of it and what stage of your life you’re in. People that think of it as a disadvantage aren’t ready for kids. All the parents I’ve met get it and understand. Anyone who’s a mom or dad understands the love you have for your children. I don’t want to get hurt for them or myself but having them makes me take great pride in my work for no other reason than to show them, to set an example. I cherish the time I get to spend with them but when I’ve got to go to work, I’ve got to go to work. I wouldn’t want my life any other way.