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Interview with female Motorcycle Racer, Kim Brauneis By Astrid Bidanec Motorcycle racing has traditionally been reigned by men. Times are changing though, and women are certainly holding their own against their male competitors on the race track. One shining example is the fast and furious Kim Brauneis. Here she gives us an exciting view into her world.
Photo courtesy of Kim Brauneis Kim on the race track
 Astrid: How did you get into racing? Kim: Went to a race with a boyfriend, saw a ponytail sticking out of the helmet, asked who it was, he told me and said that she is really fast! I said to myself..I can do that!
Astrid: What are the 2 classes you are currently leading in? Kim: I am leading in 125 GP and Lightweight Formula 40
Astrid: Are you a pro-racer or is it more of a hobby? Kim: This is a hobby. However, it is a stepping stone for those who want to go pro. I just do not have the income or enough sponsors to take me there. Photo courtesy of Kim Brauneis Kim and her boyfriend
Astrid: How many sponsor do you have and how did you find them? Kim: I have Dunlop tires, AZ tracktime for my trackdays and practice, I have Accu-products for ordering all of my parts for my motor.
 Astrid: Is there any money to be made in MC racing, or is it pure passion? Kim: There is money that you can win, if i wrap up both classes this year, that will 1,000 in my pocket and a nice trophy! Also, if you use certain products, you can win contingency money. Photo courtesy of Kim Brauneis Kim and friends
Astrid: What do you recommend to other women motorcyclists who are interested in this sport? Kim: Come out and watch! Then start doing trackdays to get a feel for it and to improve your skills.
Astrid: Are you ever scared, or is it all about the thrill of speed for you? Kim: I do not get scared, but I do get a nice dose of adrenalin when I take my grid position before the green flag drops! Astrid: Have you set any records? Kim: Only in my own world!
 Astrid: How do the guys treat you on the race track? Kim: I get treated fairly and with respect. As competition? Absolutely! They still do not want to be beat by a female, and usually some of the guys who I do beat, theIr buddies always razz them for not beating me. Astrid: Do they take you seriously? Kim: Yes, always. Photo courtesy of Kim Brauneis Kim's motorcycle Astrid: Do you compete in mixed categories or ladies only? Kim: The series I race with is combined, there is no class/races just for women only. Once when the helmet goes on, it does not matter if you are a female or male.
Astrid: Is there an age limit on racing? Kim: Yes, you must be 16 to race.
Astrid: How much longer do you plan on staying in the game? Kim: At least for a few more years, or until its not fun anymore.
Astrid: What are your immediate and long term goals? Kim: My immediate goal is to win the championships, and long term is to keep winning those classes.
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