Member of the Week: Eastin Marking
What discipline(s) do you participate in?
Hillclimb - 65cc class, Mini Junior class and Supermini class
When did you begin riding and/or racing?
I learned how to ride a dirtbike in Spring/Summer 2021. I tried my first ever hillclimb in Mankato at the end of August. I ended up loving it so much we got a hotel room and had to go to the store to buy clothes so I could race again in New Ulm the next day! My first full season of hillclimbing was in 2022.
Why do you continue to be a member of District 23 ARMCA? What do you think the benefits are?
Everyone is so nice and helpful! The support I get from the older riders really means a lot to me.
What is the greatest accomplishment of your riding/racing career?
Making it over the hill for the first time and seeing my dad coming up the return trail to help me get down with tears in his eyes and a huge smile because he was so proud of me.
What are your goals for 2024? Beyond?
To better myself every single ride, be a good role model for the younger kids to look up to, and win a National Championship.
What is your favorite track, course, trail, or event and why?
It's a tie between Hixton and New Ulm—I just love riding those hills!
What is the significance of your riding number? Was it given to you or did you pick it for a specific reason?
My racing number means a lot to me. My dad's racing number was 52 when he used to hillclimb. He gave me his number when I started hillclimbing and I couldn't be any more proud to use it!
What 5 words would you use to describe yourself (or your racing/riding)?
Passionate, hardworking, determined, supportive and kind
If you're into music, what are 3 songs you're currently listening to that everyone needs to hear?
Cracklin' Rosie by Neil Diamond
Motivation by Spiritual Tony
New Level by A$AP Ferg
Who inspires you in racing or riding? And how has motorcycling impacted your life?
There are so many riders who inspire me. Just to name a few; my dad, Grandpa Brian, Bradley, AJ, Bodee, Mark, Dalton and Brian.
Hillclimbing has changed my life in big ways. My mom met Nolan (who took me in like his own and is now my Dad). We were going through a lot of stuff and he saw I needed something positive in my life. So he put me on a dirtbike for the first time and he hopped on the back. I was smiling ear to ear and we tore up the whole front yard (in town) while he taught me how to ride. Once I got on a bike I haven't looked back since. Hillclimbing gives me time to spend with my Dad in the garage learning guy stuff, has given me the chance to meet so many new friends, has brought my confidence in myself way up, and I smile a lot more because of it!
What has been your favorite machine to race/ride and why?
My Mini Junior bike is my favorite bike to ride.
What else do you like to do for fun?
Playing football, basketball, and baseball with my friends; being a kindergarten bus buddy; reading and math; playing games with my family and working out at an ETS gym.
What advice has a fellow rider/racer given you that you follow?
Don't let one bad ride ruin your whole day (still working on this myself but it's really good advice).
What advice do you have for other D23 ARMCA members?
Don't be afraid to fail. Be afraid not to try.
Anything else you’d like to mention?
I just want to say thank you to my Dad for coming into my life and believing in me. I couldn't be the person I am today without you. You've taught me so many things and I can't wait to make more memories and keep learning from you.