Interview with TJ Ellis. By BdJ

Feb 11, 2011

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 5790 times

Name: TJ Ellis
Age: 24
Hometown: Riverside, California
Sponsors: Rockstar, Sullen, Freeagent, Vans, Deft, Alienation, Skullcandy, Ogio

When did you start riding a BMX bike?
TJ Ellis: I hit my first jump around the age of 8.

Were more people riding BMX where you grew up?
TJ Ellis: Yeah there were a bunch of ridaz.

Who was one of the better riders that you saw, and in what way did that inspire you?
TJ Ellis: Not really sure, there were a ton of shredders and I just wanted to be good enough to sesh with them.

Do you find BMX-ers to be helpful for instance in learning tricks together or giving advice?
TJ Ellis: Yeah especially when learning tricks and trying to get through a line of any sort, so tips are always good.

You’ve been progressing fast, what’s your secret?
TJ Ellis: Thx! I tend to crash a lot so that really helps with tricks and bike control in a way I cant explain. I just eat a lot of dirt. Nothing really comes easy.

Can you imagine what it was like learning big moves without a resi or foampit to learn it with?
TJ Ellis: Yeah it hurts really bad until you take it back to the pit but it's not the same feeling as learning it on a big step up.

In Australia riders are making the jumps bigger and further. Are you a fan of that?
TJ Ellis: I'm a super big fan of that, I love it! Not too many people can just session a 25 ft or bigger jump like it's normal. It takes a different kind of skill that you cannot learn overnight.

What’s the biggest jump you’re jumped you reckon?
TJ Ellis: about 40 plus in Cam White's backyard. "scaryfun"

Would the Mega Ramp be something for you?
TJ Ellis: If the jump was steeper it would be fun to roast it but that quarterpipe is on a different level so I don't think so.

At what spot can we see you dig most often?
TJ Ellis: Compound and Parslow's spot.

What is one of the best spots you’ve ever ridden at?
TJ Ellis: Some trails in Aussie, so sick.

Do you think the dirt scene is getting stronger?
TJ Ellis: Yes!

Who do you like to watch ride dirt?
TJ Ellis: Hucker

What happened to your knee?
TJ Ellis: I tore my acl and meniscus

How much downtime do you think you’ll have before getting back on the scene?
TJ Ellis: 4-6 months

Does it drive you mad already?
TJ Ellis: Heck yeah! I hate crutches. I'd rather be out sending it but I get surgery in a few days so I'll be walking soon.

Any shout outs/people to thank?
TJ Ellis: The BMX community, my boys, my sponsors, family, friends, ARF, god and FATBMX for this interview chea! hitemwitit ridaz.