The Kids Are Alright: Samantha Botts

The youth of today are the future of our sport, and we appreciate the fire these young rippers bring to the world. From freeride to XC, the youngsters are on fire and doing exciting things. The Kids Are Alright is a running column showcasing the up-and-comers who are keeping things fresh, dialed, sick, and whatever else the kids are saying these days. If you want to nominate someone, please, shoot me an email !

Tell our readers a little more about who you are and what type of rider you are?

I’m Samantha Botts, I’m 12 years old and live in Ashland Oregon. I’ve been riding mountain bikes since I was 3. I also love ice cream. On the bike I like to jump and race. I like to race downhill mountain bikes. So I’m a jumper and racer.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Ashland and live there now and was born in Marin County, CA and lived in Fairfax and Novato before Ashland.

Where do you live now?

I live in the mountains by Mount Ashland. I have trails at my house in my backyard.

Age ?

12

When did you find the love for the bike, and what made you stick with it?

I found my love for bikes a long time ago and the thought of going pro made me stick with it.

What is the earliest memory you have about bikes?

My earliest memory is probably my first northwest cup at Ski Bowl in Oregon. I remember finishing with a huge smile on my face. We did the alpine slides after.

How vital is the support from family to keep racing? Would you be where you are today without them?

I think it is vital because they drive us to the races and I don't think I would be where I am today without my mom who shuttles me and my dad who coaches me.

Favorite Place to Ride?

My favorite place to ride is on the top of Mount Ashland. I can’t say the trail names because I don’t want them to get blown out.

Favorite Ride Snack ?

My favorite snack is probably jelly beans.

Do you ride with music, podcast? Current Soundtrack? Do you have a favorite album/song/playlist that gets you hyped?

My family listens to electronics which is pump up music. My favorite is Moment of Truth by San Holo.

First thing you do after a ride?

The first thing I do after a ride is go to a bakery or an ice cream shop. My favorite is Rogue Roasting Co. in Ashland.

Do you have any post/pre-ride rituals?

After a ride I get a treat and before a ride I usually play with my sister at home.

Dream Event to Ride?

My dream event to ride in is the UCI downhill world cup.

Biggest Inspiration (This can be another rider or athlete, or anyone/anything)?

My biggest inspiration is Tahnee Seagrave a world cup racer. I got to meet her at Crankworx also.

Favorite aspect of the sport?

My favorite part of the sport is going to the races with all my friends.

Least Favorite Part of the Sport?

My least favorite part of the sport is DEFINITELY climbing.

Favorite Non-Cycling Sport to Watch/Play?

My favorite thing to do off of a bike is swimming or surfing.

Greatest Achievement on the Bike?

My greatest achievement on a bike is probably when I rode the trail A-line for the first time. My dad doesn’t like to jump so I had to learn on my own then my friend Cleo helped me on some parts. Or when I first got first place in a NW Cup downhill race and sea otter.

What are you looking forward to the most in the next 12 months?

I am looking forward to going to the North West cup finale in Port Angeles Wa in September.

Anyone you want to thank or give a special shoutout?

I want to thank my parents for taking me places to ride and my mom, especially for driving hours and hours to get us there. Also Ashland DEVO which is my team and 7idp that sponsors me.