Andrew Smallwood
My name is Andrew Smallwood, and I come from a family of five. I am the middle child with an older sister and a younger brother. Both of my parents are school teachers. My parents have always been incredible role models for me. They live a drug and alcohol free life, and this example is something I’ve chosen to follow.
Racing has always been a part of my family. My dad used to race, so we watched him when we were
young. Then, when we were old enough, my siblings and I began racing ourselves. I’ve been racing
quads since I was four years old and started competing locally in the OXCR series. In 2021, my family decided to step up our game and give the GNCC series a try. It took me a year or so to get used to the intensity and speed of the national series riders, but in my second full year in the GNCC series, I became the 2023 GNCC YXC1 Champion and Rider of the Year, with seven overall wins that season. That accomplishment was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, especially since it was something I was able to share with my family, who has been there every step of the way.
Unfortunately, 2024 brought an unexpected challenge when I got a neck injury while training, which
resulted in having to have surgery. Not being able to do the sport I love so much was tough, but I knew God’s plan was greater than mine, so I chose to approach the injury with a Fearless mindset.
Even though I wasn’t able to race, I stayed focused on my long-term goals and committed to my recovery. This setback was just a temporary pause in my journey. I knew I had to be patient as I healed, but I never gave up my passion for racing. I’m coming back in 2025 with more determination than ever to get back out there and win another championship. This experience has only strengthened me and I’m more motivated than ever to return.
The anti-drug, pro-adrenaline philosophy of Fearless is my philosophy as well. I think it is important to make your own decisions no matter what the crowd is trying to persuade you to do. I know some people do drugs or drink alcohol for the rush, however, the adrenaline rush you get from racing quads is the biggest rush you will ever experience, especially when you get a win. What you feel in that moment is super proud because you know your hard work has paid off. This regret-free rush is a better alternative to the rush one may get from drugs and alcohol. I’ve committed to putting all my time and energy into racing and living a healthy, drug-free Fearless lifestyle. This mindset has not only helped me stay focused, but has also given me the discipline and strength to compete at the highest level.
ATV racing, as an extreme sport, means everything to me. It’s more than just a sport—it’s a test of both
physical and mental endurance. The adrenaline and the ability to push myself beyond my limits are what make it so exciting. Every race is a challenge, but it’s also a way for me to grow as an athlete and as a person. Looking ahead, my goals are not only to continue growing as a racer, but also to spread the drug-free message to others.
There’s so much more to be gained through hard work, self-discipline, and a clear mind. My hope is that by continuing to lead by example, I can inspire others to pursue their dreams the right way and to be Fearless in their pursuit of a clean and healthy lifestyle.
