STI Title Sponsor of QuadX & UTV Racing Series
For the 2015 race season, STI Tire & Wheel will be featured as the title sponsors of the STI QuadX & UTV Racing Series.
The five-race series kicks off January 25 at Glen Helen Raceway in Southern California. A combined $3,000 prize purse plus 100-percent Pro payback is allocated for ATV Pro and UTV Pro competitors. Additional prizes are available for holeshot winners and a range of racing categories.
Kawasaki Sponsors American UTV Team for Rallye Acha Des Gazelles
Team Kawasaki IMG Motorsports will support the first ever ‘American Side X Side Team’ to race in the 2015, 25th Anniversary, Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles. Sara Price and Erica Sacks will be tackling one of the toughest All-Female Sporting events on the planet in a factory supported Kawasaki Teryx Side X Side built by IMG Motorsports.
The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles is a nine-day race located in Morocco, Africa where approximately 160 teams and 300 competitors come together to tackle the terrain without the help of GPS. Using nothing but outdated maps, teams are forced to navigate through the incredibly tough terrain with nothing but a compass and their will to succeed. This navigational challenge will be a true test for the Kawasaki IMG Motorsports team. They will navigate with the goal of traveling the shortest distance from Point A to Point B, ranging anywhere from 700 miles to 3,000 miles.
Coyne Powersports Sponsors New UTV Racing Series
AMA District 38 has inked a deal with Coyne Powersports for them to be named the official Title Sponsor of their All New D38 UTV Racing Series. This new series will bring seven UTV off-road racing events to the Imperial Valley’s famed Superstition Mountain OHV area.
“Everyone at D38 is extremely excited to bring UTV Off Road Racing into our series,” says Rob Niemela, AMA D38 president. “As the old saying goes, with age comes a cage, so this new series will offer a chance for a retired D38 rider or a beginner into our sport of Off Road Desert Racing to experience the adrenaline and excitement this type of racing provides in an overall safer package.”
GBC Offering $180,000 in WORCS Contingency
GBC Motorsports is offering its GBC Bucks contingency program for the 2015 WORCS Racing Series. The GBC Bucks Awards Program rewards ATV & SXS racers that achieve success while using GBC tires. More than $180,000 in GBC Bucks is on the table this season for participants in ATV and SXS classes.
In addition to offering GBC Bucks payouts for each event, GBC has added a $1,000 GBC Bucks bonus for the champions of the SXS Pro and SXS Pro Stock classes at season’s end. To be eligible for the payout the racers must run GBC tires at each round and must submit a GBC Bucks form for each round.
King of the Hammers Champ to Win Polaris RZR XP 1000
The King of the Hammers is known as the toughest off-road race in the world, and this year, the person who conquers the course will go home with a brand-new, 2015 RZR XP 1000 EPS.
As part of Polaris RZR being the official side-by-side of the race, Polaris sweetened the deal by offering up a RZR XP 1000 EPS to the Pro Class side-by-side winner. Last year, 26 side-by-sides would vie for “The Hammer” with five-time Hammers Winner Mitch Guthrie winning in his RZR XP 1000 EPS.
2015 GNCC Schedule Features Two New Venues
(Photo by Ken Hill)
Racer Productions has released the schedule for the AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country Series presented by Maxxis, an AMA National Championship. The 13-round GNCC series takes place in nine different states through the eastern half of the U.S., making stops at many of the series’ traditional favorites, while adding an all-new venue and making a return to another.
The 2015 GNCC schedule kicks off March 7-8 with a familiar location in Palatka, Fla., situated just one hour from the heart of Daytona’s “Bike Week” festivities. The all-new Wild Boar GNCC will incorporate the same grueling obstacles that Florida’s season opener has grown accustomed to, while adding a new batch of terrain that GNCC has yet to experience.
2015 ATV Motocross Season Opens at Daytona Bike Week
(Photo courtesy Ken Hill)
Chad Wienen will begin the defence of his third straight ATV Motocross championship at the iconic Daytona International Speedway during Bike Week.
The 2015 Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross National Championship, sanctioned by AMA is scheduled to kick off on Tuesday, March 10.
2014 Historic for Can-Am ATV and UTV Racers
BRP’s Can-Am ATV and Side-by-Side racers earned a record number of wins and championships across North America in 2014. Racers secured more than 16 total championships, including the first GNCC XC1 Modified (side-by-side) class and SCORE International Class 19 Pro Side-by-Side championship.
Team member Kyle Chaney earned BRP its first GNCC XC1 Modified (Side-by-Side) class title behind the wheel of his Can-Am Maverick 1000R. Chaney recorded three consecutive event overall wins and had four total podiums in six rounds of racing.
Kylie Ahart Wins Yamaha All-American ATV Racer Contest
Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., announced Kylie Ahart of Marietta, Ohio, the Yamaha “All-American ATV Racer” at the recent Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) awards banquet.
Ahart was voted to the top position by her peers, friends and fans in an online contest hosted by Yamaha as a person and racer who embodies All-American ATV Racing values. She was awarded a complete racing package from Yamaha and GNCC during the banquet and will represent Yamaha in the 2015 GNCC season.
Burnett Wins SCORE UTV Championship in Can-Am Maverick
Can-Am Maverick Side-by-Side racers competed at the 2014 Tecate SCORE International Baja 1000 race on the Baja Peninsula, tallying one Class 19 podium and the overall season championship. Racing solo, Marc Burnett (Burnett Motorsports / Can-Am / Monster) finished the endurance race in sixth to secure BRP / Can-Am its first ever SCORE Baja 1000 season class Side-by-Side title. Desert Toyz / Can-Am’s Cory Sappington also had a solid race, earning a third-place podium finish at this year’s gruelling 1,275-mile contest held in Mexico.
UTV Inc. Wins Baja 1000 in RZR XP 4 1000
(Photo courtesy Vincent Knakal // UTVUnderground.com)
This year’s point-to-point Baja 1000 was 1,275 miles of brutal terrain testing both machine and driver. Polaris RZR went into the race as the defending champion, and the Scrambler XP 1000 made a maiden voyage with Team UXC racing at the helm.
Nineteen side-by-sides, including 13 RZRs, started the race and eight side-by-sides, six being RZRs, managed to finish. First-time Baja 1000 driver of record, Johnny Angal of UTV Inc., and his drivers Brian Bush, Branden Sims and Justin Quinn, in their No. 1919 RZR XP 4 1000 won the grueling race. Jagged X in the No. 1932 with drivers Matt Parks, Brandon Schueler and Craig Scanlon took second.
ATV Motocross Series Offers Free Admission for Veterans
(Photo courtesy Ken Hill)
MX Sports Pro Racing and the ATV Promoter’s Group (ATVPG) have introduced an initiative with the Veteran Tickets Foundation to offer free admission to any round of the 2015 Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross National Championship, sanctioned by AMA (ATVMX).
For the first time ever, active and retired military veterans can watch the on-track excitement of the world’s premier ATV motocross series at no cost.
Jagged X Wins Best in the Desert's Bluewater Desert Challenge
Photo courtesy Rusty Baptist @ UTVUnderground.com
Polaris factory facers were out in force at the Bluewater Desert Challenge this past weekend. The race, different than the other Best in the Desert Races, was two days of three 25-mile laps, with results based on times from both days.
Thirty-two Side-by-Sides took the line with the Pro Class having the majority of entrants. Jagged X’s Brandon Schueler in the No. 1919 RZR XP 1000 started in front and never looked back, taking first place the first day. The top five were all RZRs with Lone Star Racing’s Branden Sims finishing second, Coastal/Holz Racing’s Scott Kiger in third, Cognito’s Justin Lambert in fourth and Jagged X’s Craig Scanlon in fifth.
ATV Pro Challenge Kicks Off This Weekend
The ATV Pro Challenge in Memory of Caleb Moore is scheduled for October 10-12 at Underground MX in Kemp, Texas.
The weekend will feature $10,000 Expert Class Payout, $2,500 Pro Am Class Payout, Monster Truck Rides, a Freestyle Show with Colten Moore, Winter X Gold Medalist and brother of Caleb Moore, Marco Picado, Adam Thene, JR Hinds, Jon and Derek Guetter, food vendors, drive up podium for Award Presentation and Announcing by veteran, David Screws.
Can-Am Race Report: GNCC Round 10, TORN Round 6
Can-Am ATV and side-by-side racers won a total of seven classes at both the AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) and Texas Off-Road Nationals racing series over the weekend. Can-Am 4×4 racers won three of four classes and earned eight GNCC podiums at the Can-Am Unadilla in New York. TORN racers Hunter and Cody Miller each notched wins aboard their Can-Am vehicles in Texas.
Can-Am Teams Win at Heartland Challenge
Can-Am ATV and side-by-side racers competed at the 2014 Heartland Challenge endurance race, winning three classes. As well, Can-Am riders earned podium finishes in the Best in the Desert Series Vegas To Reno race and round eight of the New England ATV Motocross series.
“Our team of Can-Am ATV and side-by-side racers had a busy-but-successful weekend across the US. The Murrays earned a hard-fought third-place finish in a very difficult Vegas-to-Reno race while our other sibling teams, in the Pratts and Millers, notched big wins in Iowa,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “From endurance racing in Iowa and the Nevada desert to motocross in Maine, our racers again proved Can-Am is an excellent choice for serious competitors.”
Coastal Racing Wins Vegas to Reno UTV Class
Spanning 534 miles, Vegas to Reno is known as the largest off-road race in the U.S. This year, 40 side-by-sides lined up to tackle the desert between the two cities.
On the ATV side, Team UXC/Driven Powersports/Polaris Factory Racing would line up their Scrambler XP 1000 as the only 4×4 to tackle the race.
Yamaha and Chad Wienen Celebrate ATVMX Championship
Chad Wienen and Thomas Brown celebrate a successful ATV Motocross Season.
Yamaha Racing’s Chad Wienen captured his third straight AMA Pro ATV MX Series Championship last weekend, and his Yamaha and Wienen Motorsports teammate Thomas Brown took third overall for the season.
The pair have been riding their YFZ450Rs to the top of the podium all season capping 2014 with first and third place finishes at the finale at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn., on Saturday, August 9. Wienen scored 1-2 on the day for an overall win, while Brown grabbed 2-3 giving him third overall at Loretta’s.
Rastrelli Earns First Career ATVMX Podium at Unadilla
Can-Am DS 450 racer Jeffrey Rastrelli earned his first career Pro class podium by finishing third at round seven of the 2014 Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross National Championship Series held in New York. Rastrelli and three other Can-Am DS 450 Pros secured four of the top-seven finishing spots in Pro class at Unadilla Motorsports Park in New Berlin, NY.
“Can-Am DS 450 racers definitely showed off their talents, winning the fastest qualifier award, grabbing the moto two holeshot and leading a portion of both Pro class motos at Unadilla in New York,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “Jeffrey Rastrelli continued to impress with a good starts, excellent consistency and a career-best third-place podium finish. To have four racers in the top seven is certainly an accomplishment. They all continue to push hard for the podium and deserve praise for their efforts.”
Yamaha Opens Voting for All-American ATV Racer Contest
The nominations are in and Yamaha has opened voting for its Yamaha All-American ATV Racer contest, which will reward a Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Amateur or Pro-Am racer with a prize package worth more than $11,000.
Just in time for the fourth of July weekend, racing fans can now vote and are encouraged to share the contest with other friends, family and fans to build support for their favorite competitor. The racer who earns the most online votes will receive a racing package, which includes a YFZ450R and free entry to the 2015 GNCC racing season.
Can-Am Race Report: Hetrick Second at Millville MX
Can-Am DS 450 racer Joel Hetrick earned second overall in the Pro class at round six of the 2014 Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross National Championship Series held near Millville, Minn. Can-Am Pros secured three top-five finishes in both the Pro and Pro-Am classes at the iconic Spring Creek Motocross park. Can-Am Pro Travis Moore also won both the Pro and Pro-Am classes at round five of the New England ATV Motocross series held in New Hampshire.
“We had a good weekend in Minnesota and New Hampshire. We earned the second spot on the Pro class podium with Joel Hetrick and also netted top-five finishes from Josh Creamer and Jeffrey Rastrelli,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “Hetrick continues to impress aboard his DS 450, with yet another consistent finish. Travis Moore continued his pursuit of a double championship In NEATV by winning both Pro-level classes.”
Buckhannon Rides Can-Am Renegade to Snowshoe GNCC 4×4 Win
Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc ATV racer Bryan Buckhannon won the 4×4 Pro class and earned the top spot on the morning overall podium at round nine of the 2014 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country racing series. Can-Am amateur 4×4 racers also won three classes, as the 13-round national endurance series made its annual stop at Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Snowshoe, WV.
“I think it’s fair to say that Bryan Buckhannon has found his groove with the Can-Am Renegade 800R, earning back-to-back wins and three victories in the last four rounds. His outstanding performance at a challenging Snowshoe GNCC, which pushed him into the 4×4 Pro class points lead, gives him momentum heading into the two-month break,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “Can-Am 4×4 amateur class racers continue to outdistance their competition, as Tanner Bowles, Nick Eichelberger and Terry Whitesides all own the class points lead at the break.”
Can-Am Maverick Racers Win Baja 500 and John Penton GNCC
Can-Am Maverick 1000R Side-by-Side pilot Marc Burnett won Class 19 at the 2014 Tecate SCORE International Baja 500 race held this past weekend in Baja California, Mexico. In Ohio, fellow Maverick racer Kyle Chaney won the XC1 Modified side-by-side class at the Wiseco John Penton Grand National Cross Country race in Ohio.
Can-Am ATV racers also had a successful weekend, sweeping their respective podiums in the GNCC 4×4 Pro class and in the New England ATV Motocross Pro class.
Can-Am Race Report: Mountaineer Run GNCC
Can-Am racers earned a podium sweep with the Maverick 1000R in the XC1 Modified SxS class and won all four ATV 4×4 classes at round seven of the AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country series in Masontown, WV. Can-Am DS 450 racers also won both the Pro and Pro-Am classes at the third round of the New England ATV Motocross series in Pennsylvania.
“We had an outstanding weekend at the Mountaineer Run GNCC in West Virginia and in the New England series. Earning a historic sweep in the XC1 Modified SxS class, winning the 4×4 Pro class and also both Pro-level NEATV-MX classes was perfect,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “During their push toward winning a GNCC championship, our Maverick pilots continue to showcase their merits and those of their Can-Am vehicles.”
Buckhannon Pilots Renegade to Loretta Lynn's GNCC 4×4 Win
Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc racer Bryan Buckhannon posted his first 4×4 Pro class win of the season and finished second overall on the 10 a.m. session podium at round six of the AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country series in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. Can-Am racers also competed at round two of the New England ATV Motocross series in New York.
“It was a very competitive weekend at Loretta’s, but we were extremely pleased by Bryan Buckhannon’s 4×4 Pro Class win and second overall finish during the morning session,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “The class points race is tight between Buckhannon and current class leader Kevin Trantham. After the six rounds of racing action, it’s exciting that four different Renegade 800R X xc racers having won at least one round.”
High Lifter Quadna Mud Nationals Returning to Minnesota
It’s time for Minnesotans and other off-road riders in the northern United States to prepare to get dirty. The High Lifter team is bringing back the mud in full force when the second annual High Lifter Quadna Mud Nationals Presented by Polaris from June 6-8 in Hill City, Minn.
High Lifter Products has made its mark in the world of ATV mud riding with its annual event, the High Lifter ATV Mud Nationals. For the past 12 years, the team has put on the massive off-road event that draws over 12,000 attendees at Mud Creek Off-Road Park in Jacksonville, Texas. Luckily, the cards fell in the right place after the team was approached by the owners of Quadna Mountain Park about hosting a summer Mud Nationals in Minnesota last year and the High Lifter Quadna Mud Nationals Presented by Polaris was born.
Polaris RZRs Sweep BITD Silver State 300 Podium
Polaris RZRs dominated the Best in the Desert’s Silver State 300 in Nevada. Polaris Factory Racers Justin Lambert and Co-Driver Jeremiah in their Cognito Motorsports No. 1918 RZR XP 4 1000 took first, while Scott Kiger and Mark Holz earned second in their No. 1934 Coastal Racing RZR XP 1000, and Branden Sims and Tim Krauss finished third in their No, 1913 RZR.
Can-Am Racers Sweep 4×4 Class at Big Buck GNCC
Can-Am ATV and side-by-side racers posted wins and podium finishes in the 2014 AMSOIL AMA Grand National Cross Country series in South Carolina, the World Off-Road Championship Series in Utah, the Texas Off-Road Nationals in Crafton, Texas, and In the New England ATV Motocross Opener in Wallkill, N.Y. The wins included podium sweeps in the NEATV-MX Pro and Pro-Am classes and another 1-2-3 finish in the GNCC 4×4 Pro class.
“It was a rewarding weekend, earning big wins and numerous podiums in GNCC, NEATV-MX, TORN and WORCS,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “This successful weekend verifies Can-Am offers a diverse, competitive line of off-road vehicles and has a team of resolute racers piloting them.”
William Yokley Earns UTV Win at Big Buck GNCC
Polaris Factory Racers William Yokley, John Yokley, and Scott Kiger, along with 30 other XC1 Modified Racers, took to the starting line at the Big Buck GNCC in Union, SC, the second of six UTV races on the GNCC calendar.
When the dust settled, William Yokley, in his Polaris / Coastal / CST / National Guard / Yoshimura / Yokley Racing RZR XP 900, took the checkered flag with teammate Scott Kiger taking third. John Yokley, after finishing first at The Washington in his Big Country Powersports RZR 900, crossed the finish line in fourth. The win catapulted William Yokley into first place in the series standings, with teammates John Yokley and Scott Kiger in second and third.
Beau Baron Leads RZR Podium Sweep at WORCS Round 4
WORCS Round 4 returned to Sand Hollow OHV area in Hurricane, Utah, and Polaris Factory Racers Beau Baron and Mitch Guthrie Jr. finished one/two in the Pro Class.
Sand Hollow presents the racers with a different type of terrain from most of the other WORCS races. The six-mile, hour-long course travels through sand and sandstone and is one of the more scenic races in the series.
Yamaha Launches All-American ATV Racer Contest
Yamaha and the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) racing series are offering a top Amateur or Pro-Am racer a big jolt of support, including a new Yamaha YFZ450R, with the All-American ATV Racer Contest.
This industry-first online contest will give away a complete racing package valued at more than $11,000 to the racer who is able to secure the most online votes for his or her nomination.
Can-Am Racers Shine at High Lifter Mud Nationals
Can-Am ATV and Side-by-Side racers competed in roughly 17 events for more than $22,000 in prizes at the 2014 High Lifter Mud Nationals at Mud Creek Off-Road Park in Jacksonville, Texas. Team Gorilla Powered by Can-Am, Performance Power Sports / Can-Am and S3 Racing / Can-Am and others combined to earn 24 podiums and win seven classes, including both RUV classes, in the Can-Am / BRP Mud Bog and Mudda Cross competitions.
“Can-Am mud racers had an exceptional and dominant performance at Mud Nationals. To win both RUV classes Friday and Saturday night with the Can-Am Maverick 1000R, which included a podium sweep in the RUV mud bog, was simply outstanding,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “No matter if it was an ATV or side-by-side, our racers proved that Can-Am is the brand of choice for mud riding and racing.”
Can-Am Race Report: Steele Creek GNCC
Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc racer Rob Smith won the 4×4 Pro class and the overall in the 10 am session at round three of the 2014 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country series in rainy North Carolina. Can-Am 4×4 racers won all four 4×4 morning classes, which included a 1-2-3 sweep in the 4×4 Pro class, and earned nine total 4×4 class podium finishes out of a possible 12.
“Can-Am ATV racers had a great weekend at the Steele Creek GNCC, overcoming the elements to win all four 4×4 classes and sweep the morning overall podium,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “The new 4×4 Pro class points race is very tight after three rounds now that Rob Smith notched his first win of the year. We’ve had three different Renegade 800R X xc racers win thus far, and I definitely see this one going down to the wire. It’s very exciting for everyone at BRP and I’m sure the fans are thrilled as well.”
ITP Race Report: Steele Creek GNCC
At the rain-soaked, muddy and challenging FMF Steele Creek Grand National Cross Country race in Morganton, NC, Team ITP racers came away with four class victories and six total podium finishes. ITP-backed racers won the WXC (Women’s Premier), Junior B 22+, Super Senior 45+ and Masters 50+ classes.
“Despite the very trying conditions at Steele Creek, ITP racers earned four total class wins which says a lot about the heart of our racers and both the construction and versatility of our tires,” says Pat McGuire, Public Relations / Race Support. “To get both Dave Simmons and Angel Knox in the overall morning top 10 on sport quads was fabulous. They battled hard against the elements and deserved to win their classes.”
Yamaha Off to Fast Start in 2014 ATV Racing Season
Following a banner season in 2013, the Yamaha ATV Racing team is off to a strong start in 2014 topping podiums and leading three major series across the country.
Reigning back-to-back AMA ATV champion Chad Wienen won the season opener at Aonia Pass MX atop his YFZ450R, while teammate Thomas Brown, who placed second overall in the 2013, finished fifth.
“We had good starts in both moto’s last weekend, and that was key — the track didn’t allow for much passing,” says Wienen. “My new Wienen Motorsports YFZ450R was working great. We’re very happy to come out with the win and start the season off with the red plate.”
TORC Series Adds UTV and Kart Classes to Schedule
TORC: The Off-Road Championship Presented by AMSOIL has announced the addition of Kart and P1K (UTV) classes to its national event schedule beginning with the season opener in Primm, Nev., April 5-6, 2014.
The TORC Kart class will consist of junior karts and 450 karts while the P1K class will be reserved for 1000cc UTVs. Each class will compete for a national championship and race the same seven-event schedule as the PRO Light, PRO 2 and PRO 4 classes over the course of the 2014 season. Entries in each class must be USAC-licensed, with a $125 entry fee for the karts and a $150 entry fee for the UTVs.
Can-Am Race Report: GNCC Round 2, Mint 400
Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc racer Jordan Phillips won the 4×4 Pro class and took third overall at round two of the 2014 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country series in Georgia. Can-Am 4×4 racers won all four 4×4 morning classes and earned nine total 4×4 class podium finishes out of a possible 12. Marc Burnett and Tim Farr each earned a second-place finishes with their Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs side-by-side vehicles in the Best In the Desert Mint 400 race and GNCC XC 1 Modified class, respectively.
“The Can-Am racing team had a great showing at GNCC round two in Georgia and at the BITD Mint 400. Jordan Phillips’ 4×4 Pro class and overall morning podium finish were big,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “Our racers continue to make great strides with the Can-Am Maverick 1000R platform, putting it on the podium in several different series. Marc Burnett and Tim Farr have their vehicles dialed in and it shows.”
Polaris RZRs Top the Podium in Three Different Series
Photo courtesy Ernesto Araiza/UTVUnderground.com
This past weekend, Polaris RZRs picked up wins in three different series across the country. From Best in the Desert’s The Mint 400, to WORCS Round 3, to the first side-by-side race in GNCC, RZRs found the top step of the podium.
The Mint 400 is the oldest, roughest, most spectacular off-road race in North America and has attracted thousands of racers and celebrities who have tried to master the harsh Nevada desert. This year, Polaris, once again, sponsored the race and had one of their sponsored teams took top honors in the Pro Class, Jagged X’s Brandon Scheuler and Blake Van De Loo, in the No. 1919 RZR 4 900. Despite their terrible draw of the 28th starting position, Scheuler piloted the No. 1919 to victory for his first Mint win, fourth BITD win in a row and second this season.
Read our Polaris RZR XP 1000 Review
Trantham Races Can-Am Renegade to Mud Mucker GNCC Win
Kevin Trantham got the 2014 Grand National Cross Country Series off to a flying start for BRP as he piloted his Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc to victory at the season-opening Mud Mucker GNCC in Florida. Can-Am 4×4 racers won two morning classes and earned eight total 4×4 class podium finishes out of a possible 12.
“We’re extremely happy for Kevin Trantham and his victory in the first running of the new GNCC 4×4 Open class,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “To have him and Bryan Buckhannon go 1-2 is a great accomplishment for two proven champions and a fabulous way to start the season. We’re pleased with the numerous podium finishes and hope to carry this success over to this weekend’s race in Georgia.”
Scrambler XP Race Teams Make Successful Debut
Chris Robinson won the TORN opener. (Photo by PD Mokry Photography)
The 2014 ATV Racing series has officially started and Polaris’ new ATV factory racing teams were out in full force.
The Texas Off-Road Nationals (TORN) Round 1 was held in Boyd, Tex. the first weekend in March. UXC Rider Chris Robinson piloted his Scrambler XP 1000 to a first-place finish. The course was a 5.5-mile loop consisting of whooped out sand sections, a few tight wooded areas, some dry creek beds and a few rocky hill climb sections.
Marc Burnett Pilots Can-Am Maverick to San Felipe 250 Victory
Photo by Ernesto Araiza // UTVUnderground.com
In what can only be described as a huge win for BRP, Can-Am Maverick racer Mark Burnett took the checkers at the San Felipe 250, the SCORE International opener in Mexico. Burnett was followed by Can-Am / ITP / Murray Racing in second place.
“We were thrilled with Marc Burnett’s significant victory at the San Felipe 250, and to have the Murray Racing team join him on the podium,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “These guys have been working extremely hard, dedicating themselves to winning, and this historic 1-2 effort, which included the first-ever win in Baja for a Can-Am side-by-side, proves that both our teams and the Maverick 1000R platform are hard to beat.”
$200,000 in GBC Bucks Contingency Offered for GNCC Series
GBC Motorsports is offering its GBC Bucks contingency program for the 2014 GNCC Racing Series. More than $200,000 in GBC Bucks is up for grabs this season (over $15,000 available for each of the 13 rounds) for participants in ATV and SXS classes.
In order to be eligible to earn GBC Bucks, racers must:
1. Use GBC tires on all four wheels of your ATV or SXS.
2. GBC decals must be prominently displayed on the front and both sides of the vehicle.
3. Tech inspection must be performed at the track and form must be signed by the tech (forms without a tech signature will not be accepted).
4. A separate form must be filled out for each round of the series.
5. Finish top 3 of your class (minimum of 5 racers must compete in class).
$1.4 Million in Can-Am Racing Contingency Available in 2014
The 2014 Can-Am Racing Contingency program includes more than 20 different racing series in North America for eligible racers to compete in with approved Can-Am side-by-side vehicles like the Maverick 1000R.
BRP’s Can-Am ATV and Side-by-Side contingency program for 2014 is worth $1.4 million. Regional and national racers competing with Can-Am ATVs and Side-by-Side vehicles in the United States and Canada are eligible for a cash payout through the program for the 2014 calendar year of racing.
“Racing has always played a key role in the composition of Can-Am DNA. By offering an industry-leading contingency program, along with our unmatched amateur support program, BRP has added incentive to those Can-Am owners who choose to race with our products,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “These racer-influenced programs serve to reward dedicated product enthusiasts for their brand loyalty and also support them in their pursuit of success on the track. Ultimately, it’s a win-win, as we fully understand that racing has made integral contributions to product refinement and innovation at BRP.”
Curries Put Kawasaki Teryx on King of the Hammers Podium
Lined up against a field of heavily modified Side-by-Sides, Kawasaki’s Casey Currie piloted his Kawasaki Teryx4 stock 750-class engine to finish third in the 2014 King of the Hammers (KOH) UTV Pro Class.
Currie, with a factory-spec 749cc V-Twin powering his Kawasaki Teryx4, beat out 23 challengers in the fully-modified Side-by-Side class.
BRP Announces 2014 ATV and Side-by-Side Race Team
After a successful 2013 racing campaign saw Can-Am racers earn class championships with both ATVs and Side-by-Sides, BRP has decided to add to its racing team for 2014 and expand the Can-Am X-Team program with additional Side-by-Side vehicle support.
“We are coming off a very successful inaugural season with the Can-Am Maverick 1000R Side-by-Side vehicle and one in which we captured numerous ATV championships in different racing disciplines. From motocross to hare scrambles to endurance riders, our talented team is loaded with passionate racers who are determined to put their Can-Am vehicles in the winner’s circle,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “The team will include factory-supported racers for competitive series in both the U.S. and Canada”
SORRA to Hold First Annual 6-Hour Endurance Race
The Sierra Off-Road Riders Association (SORRA) is hosting its first annual six-hour endurance race on May 17, 2014 at Chappie-Shasta OHV Park.
Just 10 miles northwest of Redding, Calif, the Chappie-Shasta OHV area offers over 200 miles of roads and trails on approximately 52,000 acres for off-road enthusiasts. Elevation within this area ranges from 600 to 5000 feet with a wide variety of topography, soil, and vegetation types. The southeastern portions offer rocky and challenging terrain, while the more remote northwestern portions offer scenic views of Mt. Shasta, Lake Shasta, and the Trinity Alps. Camping is available adjacent to the staging area below Shasta Dam for a minimal fee.
Beau Baron Wins Pro UTV Class at WORCS Round 2
More than 80 UTVs were lined up at Buffalo Bills in Primm, Nev. for WORCS Round 2 this past weekend. Polaris Factory Racers Beau Baron and RJ Anderson bested them all, finished first and second in the Pro Class.
Polaris Racing/Holz Racing’s Beau Baron started in the second row and steered his RZR XP 1000 to his first win of the season. Second went to RJ Anderson, who kicked off the WORCS season with a win at Taft, in his Loan Mart/Holz/Walker Evans RZR XP 1000. Jeff Obering, also racing a RZR XP 1000, completed the Polaris podium sweep with a third place finish.
Mitch Guthrie Wins Fifth King of the Hammers Title
MAVTV to Air Coverage of Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross Series Races
ATV racing fans will be able to catch every round of the 2014 Mtn. Dew ATV Motocross National Championship series on MAVTV.
The 10-show schedule kicks off with a pre-season preview show, followed by coverage of all nine rounds of the AMA Pro ATV Class. The series begins March 22 and 23 with the Aonia Pass MX National in Washington, Ga.
Can-Am Race Report: WORCS Round 1
Dillon Zimmerman rode his Can-Am DS 450 to a third-place finish in the ATV Pro class at the opening round of the 2014 Rocky Mountain ATV MC World Off-Road Championship Series held in California.
“Dillon put forth a great effort in very challenging conditions, battling for a top three finish aboard his Can-Am DS 450 ATV,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “He now has back-to-back podium finishes, dating back to last year’s final round, proving his speed, confidence and machine setup are all dialed in.”
RZRs Fill Podium at WORCS Round 1
The 2014 WORCS season kicked off this past weekend in Honolulu Hills, Calif. and the Side-by-Side field was dominated by Polaris RZRs. Of the 29 vehicles to start the race, 22 were RZRs – including the top three finishers.
New Polaris Factory Racer Mitch Guthrie Jr., who moved from the Production 1000 class to the Pro Class for 2014, grabbed the holeshot in his Guthrie Racing RZR XP 1000 and finished in second. Polaris Racer RJ Anderson in his new Holz/Walker Evans/Polaris RZR XP 1000, started on the second row and ultimately won the Pro SxS class. Anderson passed several racers and battled with Holz/Maxxis/Polaris Racer Beau Baron, who finished thirteenth due to a mechanical issue. Cognito/Polaris Racer, Ryan Piplic in his new RZR XP 1000, rounded out the Podium in third.
Willy Alcaraz Pilots RZR 900 to Dakar Victory
Xtremplus’ Will Alcaraz is no stranger to the Dakar podium and this past Saturday he graced it for the third time, winning the prestigious and challenging race in his Polaris RZR 900. Xtremeplus brouht four RZR teams to Dakar and claimed the top two spots on the podium.
The last special stage of the Dakar 2014 was located in the hilly roads of Canela, surrounded by cacti on slippery tracks due to the morning rain. All drivers were required to stay focused to avoid any mistakes before the checkered flag announced the race was over. Willy Alcaraz, famed for taking on Dakar on his own, would, once again, cross the line alone and, while Xtremeplus teammates Nicolas Duclos and Sebastian Delaunay claimed second.
Jagged X Wins BITD Parker 250
(Photo courtesy UTVUnderground)
The Jagged X team didn’t have long to celebrate its 2013 Best in the Desert championship as the 2014 season got off to a early start this past weekend at the THR Parker 250 in Parker, Ariz. What the team could celebrate was a victory in its No. 1919 RZR XP 4 900 piloted by Brandon Schueler and Blake Van de Loo. Coastal Racing’s 1934, piloted by Scott Kiger and Mark Holz, finished second.
Desert Toyz Pilot Maverick to Podium at Parker 250
Cory Sappington’s No. 1904 Desert Toyz / Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs side-by-side earned a third-place podium finish at the opening round of the 2014 Best In The Desert series this past weekend in Arizona.
“Once again, Cory Sappington and his Desert Toyz team did a great job in the desert, capturing a spot on the UTV Pro class podium at a very challenging race,” says Jeff Leclerc, racing project leader, Can-Am. “We had a total of six teams entered, and although not all of them had the results they desired, we were pleased to put a Can-Am Maverick on the box at the opening round. It’s a long season and we just have to remain patient and look to improve at each round.”
Maxxis Becomes Presenting Sponsor of the AMSOIL GNCC Series
Racer Productions has announced that Maxxis has signed a multi-year deal as presenting sponsor of the 13-round AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country Series.
Maxxis has been a longtime supporter of the AMSOIL GNCC Series through many successful riders and teams, while also providing series sponsorship throughout the years.
AMSOIL Back as Presenting Sponsor of TORC Series
The Off-Road Championship (TORC), has announced the return of AMSOIL as series presenting sponsor for 2014 and beyond.
“There is a tremendous future in short-course racing,” says Jeremy Meyer, AMSOIL Race Program Manager. “As presenting sponsor since its inception, AMSOIL is excited to continue our partnership with TORC as well as the commitment to keep the foundation of the sport in Crandon and Bark River while expanding to legendary venues like Sturgis. The best is truly ahead of us, and AMSOIL will continue to test its products in this harsh environment.”
GBC Offering $50,000 in GNCC Contingency
In addition to offering GBC Bucks payouts for each event, GBC has added a $1,000 cash bonus for the champion of the SxS Pro class at season’s end. To be eligible for the payout the racer must run GBC tires at each round and must submit a GBC Bucks form for each round.
Polaris Announces 2014 Race Teams
Polaris has expanded its race team for 2014, including a return to sponsored ATV racing.
Polaris comes into the 2014 off-road race season with teams competing in the Grand National Cross Country series (GNCC), World Off-Road Championship series (WORCS), Best in the Desert (BITD), SCORE International, Lucas Off-Road Regional Racing Series (LORRS), King of the Hammers (KOH) and Mud racing. Polaris will continue to offer its ATV and Side-by-Side contingency, and has added a reimbursement program on select models.
“After another highly-successful race season, Polaris decided to expand its factory race team for 2014,” says Donna Beadle, race team manager for Polaris’ Off-Road Division. “We are very excited to return to ATV racing in GNCC, and our RZR teams are even stronger this year.”
Michael Swift and Team UXV Join Factory Polaris
Can-Am ATVs have long dominated the 4×4 ATV racing circuit, but Polaris seems to be eager to change that with the signing of Michael Swift and Team UXV.
Just off his solo win at the 46th annual Baja 1000, Swift has announced he and Team UXC Racing will be joining forces with Factory Polaris for 2014. The six-time national champion will compete on the Polaris Scrambler XP 850 H.O. Swift will be defending his number one plate from the 2013 GNCC race series and looks to repeat his success in the Pro 4X4 class.
Swift Wins Baja 1000 Utility ATV Class on Can-Am Outlander
Can-Am ATV and side-by-side racers competed in the 46th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert endurance race over the past weekend in Mexico, and came away with one class victory and an impressive third-place finish in the UTV class. Team UXC Racing / Can-Am racer Michael Swift rode the entire 833-mile course alone to win Class 26 aboard his Outlander 4×4 ATV. Cory Sappington also finished the race, earning third overall in Class 19 (UTV) with his Desert Toyz / Can-Am Maverick 1000R side-by-side vehicle.
“I’m very pleased with Michael Swift’s Class 26 win, considering the fact that he raced the entire Baja 1000 solo and it was said to be one of the most grueling courses in the history of the race,” says Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “Despite a few challenges in the UTV race, I was thrilled to learn Desert Toyz driver / owner Cory Sappington earned the first Baja 1000 podium for the Can-Am Maverick 1000R side-by-side.”
