Flattrack.Com catches up with the newest
member of the Harley Davidson Racing Team
Kenny Coolbeth National #31
FT.Com
Thanks Kenny for giving us your time in such a short notice before
Daytona.
Kenny: No problem just grabbed a few minutes from getting stuff
ready for Daytona.
FT.Com
Congratulations on being selected as an official racer for the Harley
Davidson Team in 2006. How did that come about and what was your response
when you where told?
Kenny: Thank you; this is a dream come true for me. When I was first
contacted I thought "this is awesome". I didn't really know what to expect
but after several phone calls and such things really started coming together
and I couldn't be happier. An opportunity like this relieves alot of stress.
FT.Com
How long has Kenny Coolbeth been racing motorcycles and whatever made
you become Interested in it?
Kenny : My first race was when I was 5 years old. I had been around
racing my whole life.. My Dad's Dad raced and so did my Dad. So it's in the
blood.
FT.Com
Tell us more about the Harley deal, will you be collecting a salary like
the Suzuki guys? Will you still have dad there helping you? I couldn’t
imagine him not being there, I don’t think I’ve ever been to a race and not
see Ken. He’s got to be so proud of you now.
Kenny: The deal is a great deal, but some things are better left unsaid.
Harley did ask about my Dad and his involvement. Things will pretty much be
the same as years past; my Dad will definitely be a part of things. The only
difference will be we will not be stressing during the week.
FT.Com
Please tell us a little more what Kenny Coolbeth was like growing up?
Did you race when you where young, when, where? Where did you attend High
School?
Kenny: I would say that I was your typical kid... My mom spanked me quite
a bit because I liked the extreme side of things. I rode Bicycles a lot;
everywhere and even to school. I attended Wamogo Regional High School.
FT.Com
Who are some of your best buds out there on the circuit any certain ones
you hang with More than others? What’s your favorite foods and drink?
Kenny: Mike Hacker definitely.. we pretty much grew up together and we
talk everyday. But I do talk to everyone as well. We are all professionals
and get along very well. Favorite foods? I don't really have any, but I do
cook!
FT.Com
You have any brothers or sisters? If so do they attend races?
Kenny: I have a sister Marsha that attends most of the races
FT.Com
You have any tracks you favor the most? And how nationals have you won
and where?
Kenny: I like them all.. Stock car tracks are a favorite for me. When I
was a rookie I struggled on the cushion tracks; but I have now adapted well.
FT.Com
Another (Team HD question) now you are a full fledged team member of
Harley Davidson and they don’t really have a single to run in the 450 Light
class, what’ the plan there? You going to ride a Buell, Rotax or what?
Kenny: I will be riding Bettencourts Honda; who will be headlining me for
the lite series. I am super thrilled about that and graciously thankful.