When it comes to the career trajectory of young RC drivers, it’s often raw talent that determines whether someone will quickly rise to the elite levels of the racing world - some have it, and some simply don’t. Noah Dickerson has made a strong case for belonging in the first group, with a handful of regional wins and B-Main finishes at major events despite picking up a transmitter for the first time only four years ago. I reached out to the young Texan to learn more about his life, his hobby and his future for this week’s Talk It Up Tuesday.
Photo: Derek Sousa, via Facebook
Aaron Waldron: How old are you, and where are you from?
Noah Dickerson: I’m 17 years old and from Canyon Lake, TX.
AW: How did you get started in radio control, and how long have you been racing?
ND: I first started racing when I was 13 years old. My cousin, who lives in North Carolina, got a Traxxas Rustler for Christmas. I thought it was awesome! My grandpa got me a Traxxas Slash 4x4 as soon as we got back home, and that’s how it all began.
Photo: Crazy 8 Balls Racing, via Facebook
AW: When did you decide to start taking racing more seriously, traveling to larger races and acquiring sponsors?
ND: I started taking racing more seriously when I realized that I could possibly go further than just club racing. My grandparents and parents have always supported me 100%, making it easier to take it more seriously!
AW: How do you balance being a high school student and traveling for RC races?
ND: I always try and make up the time I'm going to miss before the race. My grades are usually a roller coaster after a race but I always make them up - or I'm not allowed to race.
AW: Do you know what you’d like to do after graduation?
ND: I would like to attend a community college to get my basic requirements done, and then transfer into a bigger college. I hope to pursue a degree in petroleum engineering.
AW: What’s your favorite track? Favorite big event? Favorite racing class?
ND: My favorite track would have to be LCRC in Pennsylvania. My favorite event is the Fall Brawl in South Carolina. And my favorite class is 1/8-Scale Nitro Buggy!
AW: Having traveled around the country to different events, how does the racing scene in Texas vary from other places you’ve visited?
ND: I would say Texas has a very good racing scene. It is very nice having Thornhill only an hour and half away. The scene is very good, though, compared to the other states that I have raced in.
AW: What are your most proud racing moments?
ND: My most proud racing moments would have to be winning the 2017 Icebreaker, and making the B-mains in Pro at the bigger events.
AW: What was it like making the transition from the Mugen Seiki team to the XRAY squad?
ND: The timing of switching teams has been very positive for me. Xray's belief in my talent is pushing me to grow and become a better driver. The support from the RC America staff and Gord and Ty are what I needed to push me to the next level!
AW: Do you have any goals for your RC career?
ND: My goal is to make the ROAR 1/8-Scale Fuel Off-Road Nationals A-Mains this year.
AW: When you’re not at the racetrack, what are some of your favorite hobbies?
ND: I enjoy going to the lake, hanging out with friends, and visiting different trampoline parks.
Photo: Forrest Koeppen, via Facebook
AW: What’s the best part of RC racing? What about RC racing annoys or bothers you?
ND: My favorite thing about RC racing is meeting new people and traveling to new places! I have met some people in RC racing that I hope to stay friends with for the rest of my life. When people complain about the races, that gets old.
AW: Who are some of the people that have helped you the most?
ND: A lot of people have helped me get to where I am today. Ryan Lutz has been a great influence on me since I have started racing. There are many others as well!
AW: Thanks for the interview! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
ND: Thank you for the interview Aaron! I would like to thank my family, friends, and sponsors for all of the support!
Photo: Derek Sousa, via Facebook
Eng / Usd
Français
Deutsch
Italiano
Recent comments