Monster Army Major Nick Gaines is this weeks AOTW. Nick is from Ringgold, GA and rides for Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green. We caught up with Nick and this is what he had to say:

Who influences you and why?

Ryan Villopoto influences me because he didn't have a perfect amateur career, but when he went pro he dominated. He rides hard, he trains hard, and he works hard.

What/ Who inspired you to ride?

My older brother Caleb inspired me to ride. I watched him and saw how much fun it was. Once I started, I was hooked.

What are your proudest moments/ accomplishments in 2013?

My proudest moments of 2013/2014 so far are the Mini O's. It wasn't the best week, but I won some motos and got a bunch of podiums. I also had some good battles and some wins at the Winter Ams in Florida. Now I am really looking forward to the Spring Nationals.

Have you had to overcome any challenges that made riding an obstacle at times? (i.e. Injuries, support)

I have definitely had some injuries. I shattered my spleen last year and could not do much for 6 months. Then I started back and broke my ankle at the SE Regional....but I am healthy now and ready.

What part of your racing are you looking to improve upon most this season?

I am trying to improve in a bunch of areas, but mostly my nutrition and fitness. I am also training with Ronnie Tichenor and working with Tim Ulinski.

What is your daily routine and how do you prepare yourself for a day of riding?

My daily routine on a ride day is to wake up and eat breakfast, head to the track, train for a few hours. After lunch, I rest for a little bit then I either road bike, run or go to the gym-whatever my trainer tells me to do that day. I prepare myself for a day of riding by getting enough sleep and eating for energy.

When I'm not racing you can find me…..___________________.

When I'm not racing you can find me in a lot of places. I like to go fishing and play golf and hang out with my friends.

Where would you like to see yourself in the next few years?

In a few years I want to see myself as a top pro on a good team.

Who would you like to thank?

I would like to thank Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green, Traxxas, Thor, Dunlop, Maxima, Renthal, Pro Circuit, Oakley, Asterisk. Unifilter, RK Chains, and Hook-it.

You can follow Nick:

Insta: @nickgaines707

Twitter: @nickgaines707