Kevin Russell talks Classic MX Nationals
By Jeremy Hammer
At 76-years of age, Kevin Russell is an unlikely character you would expect to see still competitively racing with a goal in mind. After several previous retirements, Kevin organised a bike to contest the 2015 Australian Motocross Classic and give it one last go at clinching that elusive Australian title.
Kevin got into racing at an early age, after envying his brother who raced all the time, he stated that’s all he ever wanted to do, and would soon follow in his footsteps.
“My brother started racing when I was a very young boy, I followed him around and it was never in doubt that I would be racing – it’s all I ever wanted to do.” He said.
What started out as a hobby soon turned into a career across many platforms of motorcycling, and would end up taking him overseas where he would eventually ride for multiple teams.
“It started out with Motocross, then I went to speedway for half a dozen years – I ended up giving that away. I went to enduro, where I got picked by a Suzuki team, then I was sponsored by Yamaha for six or seven years – It’s been awesome.”
After giving the sport away numerous times in the past, the veteran was talked into giving it one more go at claiming an Australian title – which he explained has been a pure joy.
“I’ve retired about a dozen times and kept on coming back – this is another comeback (Laughs). It’s just been a pure joy, I’ve been very fortunate.”
“Someone talked me into it when I had a beer in one hand, and that night I told the world I was going to do it. So I was obligated to have a crack, and I’m glad I have – I’ve really enjoyed it.” He explained.
Kevin borrowed a 1977 Suzuki RM125 for the event, which is actually a model he raced back in his ‘prime’. The motorcycle sat in a shed for several years, however many of Kevin’s mates chipped in to provide him with a neat, rideable bike.
“I love riding it. There are a lot of guys that have helped me – it’s been wonderful. It was a bush bashers bike, it sat in a shed for 15 years – it was a heap of junk, but I’ve enjoyed riding it.”
Concluding the weekend, Kevin ticked off the bucket list dream, capturing the Pre-98 Super Senior Australian Championship.
