The 2026 Loretta Lynn's Amateur National Motocross Championship, presented by AMSOIL, has been an exhilarating showcase of talent and determination. As the first wave of champions was crowned on Day Four, the event's intensity and drama reached new heights.
One of the most captivating storylines emerged in the 85cc (10-12) class, where Altus Motorsports' Jaydin Smart dominated with a perfect 1-1-1 moto sweep. Smart's consistent performance and multi-second leads showcased his exceptional skill and control. Beckham Smith's runner-up finish and Braxton Roth's podium appearance added to the excitement.
In the Mini Sr. 2 (13-15) category, Lynks Racing KTM's Mason Murdy emerged as the champion after a dramatic turn of events. Murdy seized the opportunity when his primary rival, Joey Vicari, crashed hard in the first moto. Despite the unexpected twist, Murdy maintained his focus and delivered an impressive wire-to-wire victory, clinching the title with a 4-1-1 moto record.
The 65cc (10-11) Limited class witnessed a thrilling showdown between TCD Racing KTM's Levi Leddy and Cobra Elite Factory Racing's Yumena Berning. Leddy, who led the championship by two points, faced a challenging start after Berning's early contact with another rider. However, Leddy's resilience and determination paid off as he secured the title with a 1-1-2 moto performance.
ClubMX KTM's Joey Vicari, who suffered heartbreak in the Mini Sr. 2 class, sought redemption in the Mini Sr. 1 (12-14) category. Vicari entered the final moto with a three-point lead, but misfortune struck again as he encountered another unfortunate incident. Eidan Steinbrecher, riding for GASGAS, took advantage and led early on. However, Steinbrecher's fall opened the door for Lynks Racing KTM's Mason Murdy, who unexpectedly swept the Mini Sr. titles with a 3-6-1 moto record.
Liqui Moli Beta's Zach Osborne continued his dominant run in the Junior (25+) class. Osborne, the former Pro Motocross Champion, controlled his destiny with back-to-back moto wins. Despite a battle with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna's Phil Nicoletti, Osborne's consistent performance and 1-1-1 moto sweep secured him the championship.
The 250 B class saw a tight battle between Team Husqvarna Amateur Racing's Tristan Prueitt and EBR Altus Performance Yamaha's Tanner Dorman. Prueitt had the momentum, but Dorman's consistent 2-3-4 moto finishes earned him the championship. Dorman's ability to manage his pace and avoid drama showcased his maturity and strategic riding.
In the Women's class, Dusty Rocks Yamaha's Jordan Jarvis and SLR Honda's Mayla Herrick battled for the title. Herrick, a rising star, grabbed the early lead and delivered a dominant performance, winning the final moto by a significant margin. Herrick's 1-3-1 moto record earned her the tiebreaker and the championship, while Jarvis settled for the runner-up spot.
The 250 Pro Sport class, one of the most anticipated, witnessed a thrilling battle between ClubMX Yamaha's Ryder Malinoski and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing's Carson Wood. Malinoski and Wood traded moto wins, setting up a thrilling finale. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna's Landon Gibson, just one point behind, added to the drama. Gibson's momentum from his Open Pro Sport win carried over, and he charged to the lead. Despite Wood's pursuit, Gibson's dominant performance secured him the moto win and the championship with a 3-3-1 moto record.
As the 45th Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship progresses, the action and intensity only intensify. The event showcases the depth and talent within the amateur ranks, leaving fans eager to witness the remaining battles and the crowning of the ultimate champions.
