Hey guys. So, we rode a huge wave of momentum coming into the Chase... and we’ve had no luck whatsoever since then. It’s just been one thing after another. Last week in California it was a busted shock mount, as you might have seen; it really set us back. But in my mind we’re not out of a run for the championship until we’re mathematically out. Nothing’s impossible!
So the Maxim folks want me to talk about what I’m into off the track. Of course, I get a huge rush when racing, but when I’m not, I’m still looking for adrenaline. It’s part of what makes me tick. One of the best parts about being on the Red Bull team is that we’re allowed (and actually encouraged) to chase thrills and pursue other sports.
One of the things I’ve really gotten into is skydiving—I’m up to 30 jumps. I’ve had the chance to train with the Red Bull Air Force...really the best guys out there. I’ve gone upside down in their stunt planes, the whole thing. I have my license and have even done a few jumps in between races. It’s wild.
And I love snowboarding. I’ve been doing it since I was about 15, I think. Recently I’ve gotten into heliskiing; I love getting into deep powder in the backcountry (especially since powder allows you to make more mistakes without getting hurt). After the series ends I’ll probably get to do some of that.
And this year I got to do some riding on superbikes. I’ve ridden on two wheels, on Harleys and stuff like that, but recently I took some training at a Yamaha Racing school in Salt Lake City. The instructors were amazing; by the end of the course I was riding a Yamaha R1, which is really a racing bike. Can’t wait to do it again.
Most other Sprint Cup drivers have contracts that don’t allow them to do this kinda stuff—but it’s weird, most of ‘em probably don’t have the desire. I guess racecar drivers are all a little bit crazy, in different ways. Including me.
Anyway, I’ve got some racing to do. We’re looking to bounce back big this weekend in Charlotte. Wish us luck!
Watch Vickers and the rest of the Chase contenders in the NASCAR Banking 500 Saturday, Oct. 17 at 7:00 ET on ABC.
