INFOCUS – PERRIS BENEGAS
Perris Benegas, the powerhouse of women's professional BMX riding, sat down with us to give an insight into her life. In between all the hustle and bustle of training for the Olympics, we focus on her motivation and uncover the driving force behind her commitment to excellence. From her crazy training routines to her strict diet, Perris shares all the secrets to her success. Join us as we explore the passion and dedication behind her strong drive.
Your energy is incredibly inspiring. How do you cope with the pressure and always stay focused?
I try to be very clear, not to do anything half-heartedly! When I see something I want, I try to achieve it. I've been like that since I was a child, actually. I also believe in manifestation. I swear I manifested so much of what I have, including my new life in San Diego, competing in the Olympics, everything! I believed that I could achieve these things with the support of my friends, family and sponsors. Plus, I can see my results directly; eating healthy, working out, all of these benefits lead me to success.
As a leader in women's BMX and an inspiration to so many young riders, what is it about your community that helps you stay focused on your goals and continue to grow the sport?
I want BMX freestyle to be as big as any other sport. It's so cool to be able to show that BMX is a women's sport too. Young girls can turn on the TV and see a girl competing in the X Games, how cool is that! It's always been a man's sport and that's all I knew growing up but things are changing and it's great that a young girl can turn on and be inspired. 
How do you find peace with such a busy schedule, the pressure of competition and trying to lead a normal life?
Honestly, being injured has been a great thing for me. It's made me realize that the little things in life are important to me, just slowing down and enjoying life. It's a balance to me. You can be a professional and do all these amazing trips, but there's more to life than just that. I want to find a family and a balanced life. At the same time, I'm living my dream, so I'm exactly where I want to be right now!
When I'm at home, however, I make time for the things I want to do. Meditation helps me stay grounded and present. When I'm doing something, I'm fully engaged. Whether I'm hanging out with friends or hanging out with Mikaela, it's all about being present. 
You've had a big year, including being named DIG Rider of the Year, winning the Our BMX Women's NORA Cup, releasing your full-length video "Integration" and being invited to the X Games. Where are you today? And where do you see your future?
Thank you, I just want to do it all! I'm putting everything on the Olympics. I don't know, I'm just trying to focus on what's in front of me and what's achievable. These are all great opportunities. I just got invited to the first X Games Women's BMX event - this is what I dreamed of as a kid. Honestly, I'm just riding the wave!
Check out Perris' Spotify playlist here: Perris Jamz
I want to do more once Olympic training is over. I want to travel more and film another part. It's important to be out and about and film with friends; that's what made me fall in love with BMX. I'm not just doing it for the competition opportunities. I'm doing it because I love it.
We caught up with Perris and got the camera rolling for a relaxing day on the road for our new "With the Crew" video series: