Roy Holt: Givin’ it Back

High Energy:  Pro-level racer Roy Holt devotes his time and talent to helping up-and-coming Pittsburgh area riders.

Imagine a young athlete getting to throw a football with an NFL quarterback, or a young hockey player getting some one-on-time on the ice with an NHL star.  That’s kind of what it’s like for young and upcoming motocross athletes in the Pittsburgh area when they get to spend some quality time with local dirt track phenom Roy Holt. 

Just because he isn't currently racing doesn't mean Roy Holt has lost his edge.

Holt, who a few years ago was qualifying for and competing in pro races, and who is still most definitely one of the most accomplished riders in the region, has taken a step back from the competitive side of the sport.  When motocross started to become more of a chore and source of frustration, he realized it was far more important to him to keep it fun; so, he took a time out.  He still plans to race at the vet level, and knows he has many years on the track ahead of him, so he’s not worried.

Holt most assuredly still has rock star status on the local scene, though.  When Holt shows up at a local track (which is hard to miss since he arrives driving a towering shiny black Ford F250), word spreads quickly in hushed but excited tones among the younger riders:  “Hey, Roy Holt is here!”  Celebrity status aside, it doesn’t take long to see Holt isn’t about basking in his glory.  He’s all about giving back to the community that holds him in high esteem. 

Holt and his bike move as one out on the track.

On this very hot and humid July afternoon at Creekside Raceway, a no-frills track south of Pittsburgh that offers a great place to work on fundamentals, a small band of riders is working out.  Holt sets up his space—pop-up tent, chairs, bikes, all the while chatting amiably with the folks who wander over to say hi and get caught up.

After a few practice laps, which clearly show Holt hasn’t lost a bit of his edge as he and his bike maneuver swiftly and gracefully as one, he is quickly working one-on-one with riders of all ability levels.  He keeps in touch with many young riders through Facebook and text, letting them know where and when he will be out training.  

Holt follows rising talent Louie Moore through the turns at Creekside.

He watches them ride, riding with them—behind them to evaluate their techniques, alongside them to help them get comfortable with being in tight confines with other riders in turns and on jumps, and ahead of them to inspire them to keep up.  He waits trackside to watch his young protégés in action, then has them watch him demonstrate specific skills.  Through it all, he imparts very practical, specific feedback and guidance on how to improve—he tells his young followers what they’re doing right, and lets them know what they need to work on to step up their game.  

Holt goes over some fine points of riding with Zack Babich

Holt does all this with a welcoming smile and a confident demeanor that leaves each of his students feeling like they’ve just been handed the keys to the kingdom—the ability to unlock the crazy good rider that lies in wait within each of them. 

There is a strong sense of community and mutual support in motocross, where fierce competitors are also friends who share ideas, techniques, tools, water, bike parts and whatever it takes to keep the sport moving forward.  Roy Holt’s humble graciousness in giving of his precious time and considerable talent to the next generation of riders embodies the very best of the sport.