Image: Octopi Media.

Racing his 18th season in the pro ranks, Kyle Chisholm has consistently put his privateer Yamaha in 450SX main events throughout the 2021 Monster Energy Supercross season, recently stating he’s enjoying this phase of his career as much as any he’s experienced so far.

Chisholm’s career kicked off in 2004 in the 125MX class back when two-strokes were the dominant force in the sport.

The Floridian has had success in both 250 and 450 action in the last five years, but he’s found a home in the 450 class aboard a privateer Yamaha this season.

“I think I’m riding better than I have the last couple of years,” Chisholm said. “Just because I’m on the same bike, same program, for the most part, same sponsors. I’ve kind of been able to carry over, building off of last year.

“But yeah it’s tough, these are the best racers in the world and I’m old, I’ve been doing this a long time. I’m still learning, I still enjoy it. I like the process, I like the work and the challenge, so I think that’s what kind of keeps me out there.”

The 34-year-old says he would have never expected to be racing past the age of 30, he’s enjoying it just as much, if not more, than when he first lined up as a professional.

“I thought I wouldn’t be racing at this age, but like I said I really enjoy it still and I think I enjoy it more now than I did back then. Not as much pressure and I like my role, kind of what I am now, the old guy trying to battle with these young guys and it’s fun.”

Sitting 19th overall this season in the 450SX championship, Chisholm will continue his campaign to keep himself inside the top 20 this weekend, as the Monster Energy Supercross season gets back underway at Atlanta Motor Speedway.