NUMBER CHECK with...Trent Pugmire
Author: Brian Wilkinson	Number Check | Wednesday, 18 June 2008 15:24

Trent Pugmire is currently in what we call, "The Grey Zone." He may go pro next year, or he may choose to stick around for another amateur year. Nothing is really concrete in his world right now, but he's not alone. Just about every pro slipping in to a pair of boots right now is experiencing the same thing. It's contract time and riders around the country, Trent included, are waiting by the phone for the call. The call that is going to give them their shot at their dream. The call that is going to allow them to carry out a fantasy that only a very small percentage of riders ever have the chance of carrying out. While Trent has yet to receive that call, he has managed to remain extremely positive and has an upbeat attitude about his future in the sport.

 

So here it is, what you've all been waiting for. Fifteen (9 + 6) questions with #96 Trent Pugmire. Enjoy! 

 

So we hear you work during the day? Tell us a little about that.

 

Yeah, I work construction with my pops when I don't ride to help pay for my trainer Randy Lawrence and help with the other racing goods.

 

How do you manage to keep riding and work both in your schedule!?

 

Randy tells me when to go on road rides, to the gym, and when to ride. I usually ride two times a week, sometimes three. I also try to do some racing on the weekends. I work when I don't ride.

 

Sounds like a busy schedule! How do you feel that your year has gone thus far?

 

It has gone okay. Texas was okay. I got a couple good finishes, but then got a concussion at Oak Hill, so I missed Vegas. I raced the 4-Stroke National and got two fourths which was fun. I won all of my classes at the regional, that was a good weekend, so I'm just trying to improve each and every time I hit the track so I can make my dream a reality.

 

lt;p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal"> So where do you feel that your are right now compared to the rest of the stacked 'A' class?

 

I feel that I have the potential to run up at the front of the pack, and I will do just that!

 

How big are the last two amateur nationals of '08 for you?

 

Real big. I want to do real good to make everyone who has helped me proud. I want to win a title!

 

If you step up next year to race pro, how big will the last three rounds of the nationals  be to you?

 

Dude that would be awesome! Probably like as big as the Hulk or a whale! Like that kind of big.

 

[Laughs] So they would be a really big deal to you. What would your goals be for these races?

Yeah they would. A holeshot would be cool, or pop a wheelie and a whip or two. Just to do the best that I know I could do.

 

If you find yourself on a team for next year, what are you goals for Millville?

Top ten would definitely be sick!

 

Could you make it as a privateer if you don't find yourself on a team next year?

I doubt it. Unless somehow I become as fast as "Bubba."

 

Do you have anything figured out for next year as far as support? Any contracts signed?

 

I do not have anything signed as of right now. I have been talking with people, just trying to get my name out there. I'm just waiting for an offer.

 

What are your plans when this season comes to an end? Will you make the big move after Loretta's?

 

Well, if I get a ride it's off to race with the big boys! If not than it's another year in the amateur ranks to get stronger, faster, and a sweet deal from a factory team.

 

You say that if you get a ride you will go and if not you will stay in order to get "faster and stronger." Do you feel you are ready to make the move or do you think another year getting faster and stronger will benefit you more? 

 

I think that another year wouldn't hurt, but I would be ready to make the move if I got the chance! 

 

Being that Loretta's is right around the corner, and that's what everyone seems to be talking about, give us your favorite memory from the Ranch?

 

I have two... First, when I won it in '02 in the 65 10-11 Stock class. Then in '05 I got second in the Supermini class behind Nico Izzi. That was real good, it was after a year of injuries the prior  year to that. 

 

How many years have you been attending, and what are your plans for this year?

 

I've been to the Ranch like five times. I missed it two or three times because of injuries. My plans this year are to win a championship and be real consistent so I can do fist pumps when I win motos. 

 

Thanks for the sit down, Trent. Good luck. How bout a shout out to all those helping you out this year?

 

I'd like to give thanks to Team Green Monster Energy Kawasaki, Shift, Gearne, Renthal, Smith, Pro Circuit, Dano from DVS, CTi, Sunline, Dunlop, Randy Lawrence, my mechanic Chris, friends and family, Awesome Austin, Stovepipe, and VURBMOTO!