William Yokley Interview 3-31-04
- Updated: March 31, 2004
All smiles on the podium in Texas, (as usual).
Walking through the pits, one can’t help but notice the man in yellow, sporting the fancy Team Suzuki pit shirt. William Yokley has become a crowd favorite over the years. Known for his big smile and friendly attitude toward everyone he meets, you’ll instantly feel right at home after only a few minutes with him. William seems awed by all the good things that continue to happen to him, even though he’s been riding for more years than even he can remember and deserves all those good things ten times over!
ATV Scene: So, what is new with William Yokley this year?
Yokley: It’s a new year. Other than, and unlike most of the riders in the pits, — that’s about it for me. Everything on the bike is about the same as we ran last year. So, it’s just another year for us.
ATV Scene: What have you done to prepare for 2004?
Yokley: I worked hard all Winter, trained and we all focused on the quad’s development and what we could do to make it better. We just prepped the quad really well now.
ATV Scene: What are the plans for 2004?
Yokley:: Go out there and win, but if I can’t win, do as good as I can do, and take it as it comes. That’s about it.
Yokley and his equipment always looks nice, thanks to all the hard work put in by him and his biggest sponosr, his dad.
Leading a race is routine for Yokley.
ATV Scene: What are your favorite track conditions?
Yokley: I like it a little wet I guess. But definitely rough, I like rough tracks, they separate the men from the boys.
ATV Scene: How long have you been chasing after the number one plate?
Yokley: I guess about ten years already. (under his breath) Man, that is a long time. I’m ready for it. Definitely.
ATV Scene: What are the main accomplishments you are looking for this year?
Yokley: I plan on coming out here and having a good time. Winning a few races this year, is a plus. Supporting my sponsors the best I can in a good manner and spending time with all the people that show up week after week.
ATV Scene: Did you feel confident going into round one in Texas before taking the overall there?
Yokley: Oh yeah, I felt pretty confident. I knew the bike was going to work great. My confidence in the machine is never the problem. I have been on my quad all Winter, so I know it can perform. When I feel that good about it, I can just go out there and win. That is what I did.
ATV Scene: Age? Hometown? Married?
Yokley: 26. Tompkinsville, KY. Nope!
Yokley gives TV crews a little segment on how to kick some serious butt. Look for the airing of the TV show towards the end of the season.
ATV Scene:Do you have a Monday to Friday job?
Yokley: Yeah, racing. That is enough isn’t it? I love it.
ATV Scene: When you aren’t racing on the weekends, what are you up to?
Yokley: I just take it easy – that is for sure! And I just like to have fun, you know.
ATV Scene: What is the best thing about this sport?
Yokley: Getting to come out here and getting paid to have a great time. I enjoy seeing all these people. Everyone is having a good time, and I enjoy being a part of that. Without a doubt, that is my favorite part!
ATV Scene: What is the worst part about this sport?
Yokley: Hitting the ground. It sucks. Let me tell ya.
ATV Scene: This years sponsors?
Yokley: American Suzuki, Nacs, Roll, Yoshimura, IMS, ITP, Scott, Hinson, tireballs, LoBo, Elka, Powermadd, SIDI, RK Chain, AC Racing, UNI, and Quadtech.
ATV Scene: Any parting words?
Yokley: Never give up and keep your head up high. And remember to just keep on rolling baby!
