as the BMX announcer. I got an e-mail back from Risto (the promoter) and he told me the budget was full. I sent an e-mail back telling him I would do it for free if they would pay my transportation. He instantly e-mailed back and said yes. I was shocked. At that point I didn't even have a passport..so I had to hurry up and get one and I made it over! - Are you planning to do Simple Session an every-year-tradition?
Catfish: Yes. I will never miss this contest. It is the best BMX contest of the year, hands down.
- To you expect Simple Session '09 to be as much fun as it has been last two years or to you expect something new and completely different? Catfish: I think everyone is in for a big treat this year. A lot of new faces came out to Simpel Session last year and they all had a wonderful time. More and more riders are hearing that Simpel Session is THE contest to make it to every year and we have a ton of new faces coming this year. It just keeps getting bigger and better.
- Are there any big differences between BMX contests in U.S and BMX contests in Europe?
Catfish: There is a pretty big difference between the US comps and Europe. If I could have my way..I would stick to European contests only.
There are a couple reasons for that. For one..In Europe, specifically Simpel Session..the crowd is so enthusiastic. They are legitimately excited about what they are seeing..the riders love it when the crowd is behind them. I have seen some of the best crowds ever at Simpel Session. Having a receptive crowd always makes for the best BMX contests. European comps are a lot more laid back..there isn't a pressure filled atmosphere. It's a fun time. BMX is all about fun and contests like Simpel Session..really bring that outNot to mention all the delicious beer you have in Europe. Its rare to see alcohol at big events like the Dew Tour. Everybody knows beer makes BMX better! - You are a great BMX host - no doubt about that! But how good are you at riding?
Catfish: Of course I am going to say I am absolutely amazing on a bicycle and I taught Daniel Dehrs and Garrett Reynolds everything they know! I don't know how I would describe my riding. I guess you could say my riding is un-orthodox, I try to use my brain more when I ride. Try things other people aren't thinking of. I mean..I can do a backflip if that's what you are getting at. :) I'm sweet at BMX..we can just leave it at that.
- I know you are a busy-busy-busy person. What are all the things that fill your days?
Catfish: Well I am the team manager for DK bikes and that is my number 1 priority. Making sure the team is dialed and keep turning out awesome products. 2009 is our 30th anniversary. 30 years of making kick
ass BMX products is something to be stoked on for sure. I plan on hitting up all the major contests this year. DK is going on a world tour as well..maybe I'll get back to Estonia in the summer! I want to really bad. - What to you love most about your work? Is it the sport or travelling or a big paycheque or all the beautiful girls you met while hosting different events?
Catfish: What I love most about my job is meeting and riding with new friends. BMX is worldwide but the community isn't that huge. I love making new BMX friends. I am excited to see all my Estonian friends when I get to Tallinn!! The traveling is rad, the money is nice, and I love all the hot girls but making a connection with a rider that lives on the other side of the planet and having fun sharing the same experiences on a little 20 inch bicycle is priceless.
- Oh, and when we already mentioned travelling, I just can’t help myself asking you to name all the places you have been. I bet there’s quite many of them... Catfish: Wow...in the last year I have been to England twice, Germany, Switzerland, Singapore, all over China, Japan, Canada, and a good portion of the US.
- Please describe 76years old Zack "Catfish" Yankush - is he still jamming with the microphone in BMX contests or is he having a decent life of a pensioner with golf and bingo?
Catfish: I'll still be riding. No golf or bingo for me! If I have my way you will see Catfish at Simpel Session 2052 still rocking out. I might have hearing-aids in from all the hip-hip music that I listen to now. I will still be screaming, still loving BMX. I'm sure I'll be grabbing girls on the bum too. Dirty old man.
Thanks for the interview and see you in Tallinn!!
By Maarja Paalits
femme.ee
2009 course assembly day one:
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.