Date of birth:
1995.02.06
Hometown:
Gisborne
Sponsors:
Motoasylum, Rebel racing, Liquid-tones.com,
Hobbies:
Playing soccer, watching movies & eating pizza
Favourite athletes:
Danny MacAskill, Kyle Bennette

BIO

I am a BMX rider from Gisborne, New Zealand currently living and studying in Hamilton NZ. I am 19 years old and have been racing BMX for 8 years and am currently in my first year as an elite rider. I have held a national ranking for 7 years with 3 of those years holding  4 NZ1 titles. I have competed in 3 world champs making the top 5 each time, and with my best result in 2011 where i was a double silver medallist. I have recently been on a break with an injury having to have surgery on my wrist in February 2014. I am now back into training for my 2016 Olympic campaign. Presently i am a second year student at The University of Waikato where i am doing a Bachelor of Social Sciences majoring in Psychology. I am also a second year Hillary Scholar at the university on the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship programme.

INTERVIEW

What are you looking to accomplish?

I want to be named as one of the best female riders in the world while also being able to lift the BMX profile and support for women.

"Monique Smith"

What would be your greatest achievement?

So far it would be being a double silver medalist at the 2011 world champs. A great achievement would be passing on knowledge to younger riders.

What kind of difficulties does your sport’s performance involve?

Politics and rules that stop riders from competing at the highest levels and being the athletes they wish to be.

"Monique Smith"

What makes you feel satisfied when performing your sport?

Being looked at like a role model to younger riders.

Where do you practice your techniques when being alone?

On a quiet road or a BMX track

What do you do during your training which is key to your success?

Being dedicated and motivated to do every session no matter the weather.

"Monique Smith"

When are you the most nervous when competing?

Probably when competing in front of a home crowd.

Who would you say is your biggest fan and why?

I dont think i have any fans!

What is the best piece of advice you have been ever given?

Be true to yourself.

What are your future plans?

To complete my degree, move to America to work and train and to travel the world in the hopes of making the next Olympics.

"Monique Smith"

What are your tips for those who begin now?

Ride, train and compete in a way where you still enjoy it. It’s all a journey so have fun!