It’s hard to believe that a month has passed since the 2nd annual Mini Moto SX event in Las Vegas. As expected, some of the most talented and enthusiastic pit bike riders in the world showed up to wage small scale war on a purpose-built track. True to their word, the Moto XXX/A-Ride mini team launched a solid offensive in the Orleans Arena and proved to be a major force in multiple classes.
Fans of the Moto XXX/A-Ride team may be surprised to learn that mini racing is not a full time occupation for any of its members. Their rock star image at the races stems from the natural charisma of each team member, not six-figure contracts. Nevertheless, the riders try to maintain a certain aura, which may explain the very unpunctual nature of this particular release. Either that or they’ve been so busy testing new parts and settings that they just didn’t have
time to report on their Vegas results until now.
The bottom line is that the team had a very successful weekend in Las Vegas. Leading the way was Drew Petrie, a support rider for the team. After winning his qualifiers in the 10 and 12-inch Amateur divisions, Drew won the 10-inch main event. He was leading the 12-inch main when his bike suffered a race-ending broken chain. Even that crushing bit of bad luck couldn’t put a damper on the fact that the team had scored a win in its first national competition.
Moto XXX/A-Ride also placed a rider in the women’s class this year. Cassie Cherry rode well the entire day, as well as in the main event. After a great race, she crossed the finish line second, taking home the #2 plate.
Like Petrie, Mike Spasbo won his qualifier in the 10-inch Amateur class. Unfortunately, he got a bad start in the main event and was forced to play catch-up the entire time. Undaunted, he rode hard to the finish and found himself in the top-ten when the checkers flew. Oscar Valdez rode the Pro class and was a solid top-ten runner until his bike threw a chain as well.
Overall, the Mini Moto SX was a great experience for the Moto XXX/A-Ride squad. A couple of tough breaks provided valuable learning opportunities. Leaving Las Vegas with #1 and #2 plates, however, was more than enough to fuel a lot of optimism for future events.