Tom Schneider
What’s your name?
Tom Schneider
Where are you from?
Rhinebeck, NY
Who is(are) your rider(s)?
Travis Schneider #582
How long have you been a moto dad?
Four years
Were you into motorcycles before becoming a moto dad?
Yes, I raced motocross in the mid-’90s to early 2000s.
Describe a typical race weekend for you.
A few hours of bike prep, load the toy hauler, drive a few hours, camper set up, practice on Saturday, bike prep for a few hours again on Saturday night, race Sunday, drive home.
What’s your family’s favorite meal to have at the track?
Steak on the grill.
Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions while spectating?
Of course. We can only put our wrist bands on your left wrist. New helmets you have to drop them first. If he has a good first moto we try to do everything the same for the remaining motos. I only fill his gas in his bike from the left side.
Most nerve-wracking moment watching your kid(s) race/ride?
Regionals are the most nerve-wracking for me.
Favorite part about spending time at the track?
Being able to spend quality time with family and friends.
Favorite and least favorite part about traveling to the races?
Favorite part is to give my son the opportunity he deserves. Least favorite part is the expense.
Craziest travel story?
Transmission got stuck in a low gear on the way to the Travis Pastrana race. It took us three extra hours and had to drive no faster than 30 mph.
Biggest sacrifice you’ve had to make for amateur motocross?
I would say time is our biggest sacrifice. We have very limited time to do work around the house or go on vacation.
Proudest moment of your career as a moto dad thus far?
My proudest moment would have to be his 2nd overall finish at Loretta's in 2018. I tried to qualify for LL when I used to ride and failed to do so. I know how hard it is to even make it there let alone do as good as he did.
What’s your favorite track?
There are so many good tracks out there from Ponca to Southwick. If I had to pick one I would say Loretta's. The track gets so rough and rutted and the atmosphere is great.
Who is your favorite pro racer (past or present)?
Adam Cianciarulo
What is your favorite type of music?
Country
What hobbies do you have away from motorcycles?
Hunting and Fishing
What is your beverage of choice?
Bourbon
Any advice for the moto dads of the future?
Enjoy the moment. Do not burn the kids out. Find a happy medium where you can train the proper amount. Every kid is different. My rule of thumb is if I am getting burnt out from the long weekends and traveling then my son probably is too.
