Born out of a need for adrenaline-boosting winter activities, Khaled Al Bahar’s heart was set on motocross bikes. While many consider said bikes as a public nuisance – Khaled is working towards changing that. “I don’t understand the guys on Gulf Road riding without protective gear pulling stunts in the middle of traffic,” Khaled shook his head. “Come to us, join us! If you’re able to do this on the road, just imagine how great you can be on proper racetracks,” he pleaded. Motocross, as a sport, is far from being a novelty here in Kuwait, and to Khaled, it has become a way of life.
With his family’s support, Khaled went from being an amateur rider to having two championships under his belt – not to mention all the races he’s finished first. That being said, Khaled was the youngest racer in Kuwait and the GCC to have won a championship! When the safety gear comes on, there’s no stopping Khaled. Driven by his ambition and passion to become the best in the region, Khaled never says no to a new challenge. “I want to be able to ride on any terrain and conquer any track,” Khaled started. “I love traveling, so when I travel I try out new tracks,” he explained. “You keep learning new things this way.”
While it took him four years of training to get his signature motocross move down, he’s extremely proud of it. “It’s called The Scrub, because you twist the bike sideways with your body still upright,” he laughed as he tried to explain it. “It gives you speed because it shortens the airspace while making a jump.” [This is where he pulled out a phone to show us an Instagram video of the move.] “The thing is, you become part of a community, a family even, when you join. Everyone is supportive and helpful because we can all learn from one another – we even learn from the newcomers!” Khaled urges anyone that’s interested in motocross to join them. As long as you bring your own gear, Khaled and his track-mates will be happy to teach you and help you grow. “I hope to turn our tracks into a full academy to teach anyone and everyone interested,” Khaled smiled.
Truth or Dare Questionnare:
How would your mother describe you in one word?
Persistent.
How would you describe your mother in one word?
Queen.
What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?
How many children do you have?
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Bungee jump from an 80ft high cliff.
What is your theme song?
Ty Dolla $ign – “Blasé.”
What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?
Peanut.
Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?
Los Angeles.
What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
“Squad!”
What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?
Dogs because they’re loyal.
What do you miss about your childhood?
How life was very simple and pure.
If you could change your name, what would you change it to?
Ahmed.
How would you describe your handshake in one word?
Firm.
What is the toughest part of your character?
Energetic.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
Salah Al Deen Al Ayoubi.
What in the world do you least desire?
Money and problems.
What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?
Peace, happiness and less poverty.
Why do you think most girls/guys like you?
Because I’m confident and straight forward with people. Also, i like to see people around me happy.
Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”
Love.
You can find out more about Khaled’s world and how to join the fun by following them on Facebook and Instagram @Q8racing.
Photo by Yousef Al-Qallaf.
