Wes Peebles has risen through the ranks of northern Nevada motocross to become one of the fastest Intermediates in the region, but this 18-year-old has much larger ambitions for the future. After posting respectable finishes at the major amateur events in 2004, Peebles is aiming for the top of the Intermediate class on this year’s amateur circuit. Peebles has gained a reputation in Nevada as an aggressive and driven racer, which are two characteristics he will need to achieve his eventual goal of succeeding as a professional. After taking convincing wins in the 250cc Intermediate and Schoolboy classes at round four of the MX West Spring Series, Peebles spoke a little about his preparations for the summer ahead.

First of all, how did you feel today?
Pretty good. My arms held up with no arm pump, so I was able to go hard through all of my motos.

You’ve continued to get a lot faster lately. What have you been doing to improve?
Well, I’ve been going to the gym every morning since May. That’s been helping, and I been trying to ride four days a week for at least two hours (at a time.)

You’ve been taking on the Intermediates in California lately. How has that been going?
Pretty good. I went down there when the winter dropped a bunch of snow on us, and did some riding for a couple of weeks to get away from it all. But I was just trying to get down there to get used to the weather and riding with all the fast guys.

What are your goals for this year?
Top fives at all the amateur nationals, and hopefully getting picked up to ride for somebody.

When do you see yourself turning pro?
At the end of this year, probably after Loretta’s.

And where do you see yourself in five years in motocross?
Hopefully making a lot of money, and loving what I do.

So who are your sponsors for this year?
Troy Lee Designs, Pro Circuit, Schmidt Performance, Stomp Designs, Kurt Henricksen MX Schools, N.E.I. Racing, Kicker Audio, TBT Racing, Nomadik Clothing, Factory Backing, Reno Cycles and Gear, Roseville MX Racing, Renthal, Hinson, Monster Energy, Spy Optics, Ogio, Bridgestone, Works Racing and Development, Maxima, Excel Rims, and Draper Tools.