This issue of PAMX The Magazine is proudly dedicated to High Point Raceway, a place that has become synonymous with the history, passion, and heritage of American motocross.
My connection to motorcycles began at an early age. In 1970, as a seven-year-old kid, I was completely in love with dirt bikes. The sights, sounds, and excitement of motorcycles captured my imagination and would ultimately help shape the course of my life.
The roots of our family’s journey go back even further. In 1967, my father purchased a Honda Mini Trail from Alvin’s Honda in Windber, Pennsylvania. None of us could have imagined at the time how that single purchase would influence generations of the Cernic family. From that moment forward, motorcycles became more than a hobby—they became a way of life.
In 1969, our family purchased a Suzuki franchise, and the story truly began. The dealership quickly became a gathering place for riders, racers, and enthusiasts. Every day brought new experiences, new friendships, and new lessons about the rapidly growing sport of motocross.
One memory from 1971 remains as clear today as it was more than five decades ago. A customer had just purchased a brand-new 1971 Suzuki TS125 Duster, a street-and-trail motorcycle. After taking delivery, he rolled the bike outside the dealership and immediately began removing the lights, mirrors, and street equipment.
Curious, I asked him, “What are you doing?”
Without hesitation, he looked at me and replied, “I’m going motocross racing.”
At that moment, I realized something special was happening. Motocross was more than just riding motorcycles—it was becoming a culture, a community, and a passion shared by thousands of riders across the country.
Over the decades, no place has represented that spirit more than High Point Raceway. Generations of racers, families, mechanics, promoters, and fans have gathered on those hillsides to witness the very best our sport has to offer. High Point has been the backdrop for unforgettable victories, lifelong friendships, and countless memories that continue to define motocross in America.
As we celebrate this special issue, we honor High Point Raceway not only for its place in racing history, but for the role it has played in the lives of so many who share a love for motorcycles and competition. For me and my family, motocross has never been just a sport—it has been a lifelong journey.
And it all started with a kid who loved dirt bikes.
See you at the Races!
Let’s Race
PAMX President
On The Cover: Jesson Turner, our Pro Am Rider of the Week at the Dylan Slusser Memorial
Dylan Slusser Memorial
Ryder Loucks
Austin Keller
Briar Stecik
Dominic Bentley
Nathan Tucker
Rivers Rice
PAMX Rider of the Week - Round Four
What an event at Pleasure Valley Raceway with over 1300 entries for the Mosites Motorsports Dylan Slusser Memorial, it’s so hard to choose a rider of the week. So many great riders showed up to compete and compete they did.
Devin Simonson, Jesson Turner, Briar Stecik, Cade Swartfager, Rivers Rice, Nathan Tucker, Darryn Durham and so many great racers and races happened but one rider stuck out this weekend, Kelsey Harris showed the way around a very tough PVR Track to earn this week’s Honor of PAMX Rider of The Week! Congratulations Kelsey! Kelsey ended up winning all of her classes in 125c, Girls (11-16), and Women 12+.
- DYLAN SLUSSER MEMORIAL -
Over 1300 participants took part in the Mosites Motorsports Dylan Slusser Memorial American Motorcyclist Association Featured Pro Am, presented by Cleveland Brothers and Plum Contracting. The event offered thrilling racing action, complemented by the Re-MX race on Friday and Saturday.
Team Jones and Roman claimed victory in the Friday Relay, and Team MXTire secured the Saturday relay win. A highlight of the weekend was the Saturday evening auction, which raised more than $20,000 for the Team USA Jr MX team, accompanied by fireworks sponsored by South of the Border.
Sunday’s activities began promptly at 8:30 am, with practice sessions and the first 250 Pro Moto scheduled for noon. The livestream from the prior day exceeded 15,000 viewers and reached over seven countries.
PAMX Pro-Am Rider of the Week - Round Five
Jesson Turner with a 2-3 score in the 450 Pro Class on Saturday backed up with a 1-1 in the 250 Pro on Sunday and a 1-1 overall score in the 250 All Star class.
Jesson Turner is Our 2026 PVR Dylan Slusser Memorial Pro Am Rider of the Week
Congratulations to Jesson on a Fantastic Weekend
Ten Things To Know About
1) Grit. Think of concrete starting pads as sandpaper, but not always heavy-grit paper. Sandpaper varies from ultra fine to extra coarse. The same goes for concrete. Each concrete starting pad has a different grit rating. Knowing the grit of a concrete starting pad is important for getting a good launch off the gate. The finer the concrete texture, the more weight needs to be placed on the rear wheel, the smoother the clutch actuation needs to be, and the more likely you are to spin the rear tire. Coarse finishes make it easier to get the traction you need, although your weight needs to be farther forward in case the rear tire hooks up too well.
2) Rubber. The amount of traction you get can depend on the rear tire you’re using. Different rubber compounds, tread patterns and tire widths make a difference in how much traction you get. The greater the rear tire’s contact patch (120 versus 110), the more likely you are to get a solid launch (an example would be a street bike tire versus a dirt bike tire); however, the rubber compound has as much to do with getting bite on concrete as the tire width. Sand and Intermediate-compound tires have harder rubber than hardpack tires. Harder rubber compounds are more likely to spin than tackier, softer rubber. Most inexpensive tires on the market use harder compound rubber to increase durability. If you make specific choices for a concrete start, they may not be optimum on the actual racetrack. You wouldn’t want to use a softer-compound hardpack tire for the start and then have to hunt for traction in
loamy dirt. You also wouldn’t want to use a wider 120 rear tire for the start and then struggle in ruts because of the tire’s squarish profile.
3) New Tread. Believe it or not, brand-new tires aren’t an advantage on concrete starts. Don’t be fooled by the look of brand-new knobs. Those sharp square edges on a new tire tend to break traction under a load. The edges need to be rounded off to get a better purchase on the concrete. That’s right, we’re telling you to burn the edges off of your brand-new knobs before the start. Yes, you will shorten the life of your new sneakers, but how badly do you want a good start?
4) Slow Heat. Have you ever started next to a guy who does a John Force-style top-fuel burnout on the concrete while waiting for the race to start? It’s like smoking six packs a day for a year. Doing a smoky burnout only heats the top few millimeters of the knobs, not the complete knob. A slow rotation burnout will heat more surface area than a drag-race smoker. Do short intervals rather than one long one. Be aware that if the tire gets too hot, you’ll end up starting on a gooey patch of melted rubber. Even worse, according to tire designers, if you heat your rear tire up more than 45 seconds before the gate drops, your tire will cool off before you can get any benefit from heating it up. Most tire gurus believe that spinning the rear tire just enough to clean the knobs and score the rubber is all you need to do.
Starting On Concrete
5) Don’t move. It doesn’t matter if you use the oneleg-up or two-legs-down method; just make sure to keep your position until you’re over the gate. If you bring your leg or legs up too soon, there’s a good chance your balance will fall to one side or the other. This will pitch the rear wheel out, and, instead of being propelled forward, your rear tire will slide sideways.
6) Fingers. A hard habit to break when starting on concrete is letting the clutch out too quickly. You are in a hurry, and your brain tells you to dump the clutch and get going. Don’t listen to your brain. Feed the clutch out while the rear tire is on the cement, then dump it once on the dirt. A no-brainer way to slow down your clutch fingers is to use your three outer fingers on the lever. Most riders use their middle finger or index finger, but these fingers are too fast for their own good. When using the three outer fingers, it will take you longer to let out the clutch. This helps get traction to the ground.
7) Loading Up. Loading up is a technique used to take the slack out of the chain. This is done by holding the front brake as you slowly engage the clutch to engage the tranny, chain and rear sprocket. Many riders leave light pressure on the front brake until they clear the gate.
8) Body Position. Where you sit on the bike and where your torso is leaning control the distribution of weight to the rear wheel. Don’t try to get more traction by moving way back on the seat. Instead, sit 6 inches farther back, but keep your torso erect. That way you will center your weight on the bike. Don’t lean forward with your elbows up as on a dirt start. Instead, sit bolt upright and hinge your upper body forward or backward from your hips to find the sweet spot.
9) Gear. Second gear is the universal choice for virtually every start, be it dirt or concrete; however, if the concrete is super slick or wet, click up to third, lean back and feather the clutch out. Most factory racers don’t use launch control. They depend on a talented left hand. But concrete starts, which AMA stars never see, are prime for launch control buttons.
10) Feel It. You may be the kind of guy who goes to the practice track and spends all day refining his whip. Guess what? Jumping jumps isn’t half as important as getting the holeshot. Everybody on the track can jump the jumps, but only one person can get the holeshot. You need to practice your starts to be good at them. Repetition allows you to put all of the pieces together. Only by practicing ,starts can you try different body positions, weight shifts, numbers of fingers, gears, tire heat and launch control settings without paying the penalty of losing a race.
Reprint from: www.motocrossactionmag.com
Living Life Full Throttle: Remembering Jimmy Stokes
James M. Stokes, lovingly known as Jimmy, was born on March 27, 1957, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, and passed away on May 30, 2026, doing what he loved most - racing motocross. His passing came while pursuing a lifelong passion that brought him joy, friendship, and a sense of freedom throughout his life.
Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Mary (Miereczko) Stokes; daughter Samantha Stokes; future son-in-law Ed Ricci; his faithful dog, Maisy; and brother Robert (Brenda) Stokes. He was preceded in death by his parents, James D. and Alice (Coleman) Stokes, and his son, James P. Stokes.
A 1976 graduate of Chesterton High School, Jimmy excelled in athletics and earned an invitation to the Philadelphia Phillies farm system. During those years, he also discovered two passions that would remain with him for life: boxing and motocross. He began boxing on Chicago’s South Side and raced motocross at K&R Raceway and RedBud, launching a lifetime of competition and adventure.
After graduation, Jimmy returned to Pennsylvania, where he met the love of his life, Mary. Fittingly, their first date was at a motocross race, and together they built a life filled with love, family, and memories.
Never one to back down from a challenge, Jimmy competed in the Pittsburgh Golden Gloves, finishing as runner-up in the 160-pound division. He earned a black belt in Taekwondo, placed among the top competitors in the MMA Tough Guys Tournament, and later opened his own kickboxing school, sharing his knowledge of boxing and martial arts with others.
His adventurous spirit extended beyond the ring and racetrack. Jimmy raced stock cars, enjoyed skydiving, and flew his ultralight aircraft over western Pennsylvania. In recent years, he returned to motocross, rekindling the sport that had captured his heart as a young man.
Above all, Jimmy was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend. His legacy is one of determination, courage, and passion for life. Some people simply exist, while others truly live.
Jimmy was one of the rare few who lived every day to the fullest.
Jett speed
Custom-fit, hand-assembled air filters – for everyone
AMATEUR MOTOCROSS SUPPORT
10 Questions with Team Dunlop’s Rob Fox MANAGER,
Team Dunlop has become one of the most recognized amateur support programs in motocross. What is the mission of the program and what makes it unique? The mission of Team Dunlop is simple: support the next generation of racers and help them develop both on and off the track. We want to provide riders and families with access to great products, technical support, and opportunities that help them reach their goals. What makes Team Dunlop unique is the size of the program and the commitment behind it. We support thousands of amateur racers across the country, from local racers all the way to future professionals. It’s not just about handing out discounts. It’s about building relationships and helping riders throughout their entire journey.
When evaluating young riders, what qualities stand out the most besides outright speed?
Speed will always get your attention, but it’s far from the only thing we look at. Work ethic, attitude, sportsmanship, consistency, and how a rider represents themselves are all extremely important. We pay attention to how riders interact with competitors, how they handle adversity, and how they carry themselves both at the track and online. Talent can take you a long way, but character often determines how far you’ll ultimately go.
How has the amateur motocross landscape changed over the last 10 years, and what trends are you seeing today?
The level of competition continues to rise every year. Riders are training more professionally at younger ages than ever before. Social media has also become a major factor in how riders build their personal brands and connect with sponsors. One trend we’re seeing is that the most successful riders are the ones who combine strong results on the track with professionalism off the track. Teams and sponsors want complete athletes, not just fast racers.
What are some common mistakes amateur racers and parents make when trying to get noticed by factory teams and support programs?
A common mistake is focusing solely on results while overlooking professionalism and relationships. Everyone wants to win races, but teams also notice how riders and families conduct themselves. Another mistake is expecting support too early. Riders should focus on developing their skills, putting in consistent results, and building a positive reputation. Support programs are looking for long-term potential, not just a single good weekend.
Can you share a success story of a rider who came through Team Dunlop and went on to have a successful professional career?
There have been quite a few over the years, which is something we’re very proud of. Riders like Haiden Deegan and Lachlan Turner spent time as Team Dunlop-supported amateurs before becoming some of the biggest names in professional motocross. Watching riders develop from youth classes all the way to professional championships is incredibly rewarding and reinforces why programs like Team Dunlop are so important.
Never lose sight of why you started. Motocross is supposed to be fun.
What advice would you give a rider racing local and regional events who dreams of earning Team Dunlop support?
Focus on improving every time you ride. Results matter, but consistency, effort, and attitude matter just as much. Support programs want riders who are committed to the sport and willing to put in the work. Be respectful, represent yourself well, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn. If you’re consistently performing at local and regional events and carrying yourself the right way, people will notice.
How important is tire selection and tire maintenance at the amateur level, and what mistakes do you see riders making with their tire setup?
Tires are one of the most important performance components on a motorcycle because they’re the only connection between the bike and the ground. Choosing the right tire for the conditions can make a huge difference in confidence and performance. One mistake I see is riders using worn tires for too long or selecting a tire that doesn’t match the terrain. Another common issue is not paying enough attention to tire pressure. Small setup changes can make a significant difference in how a bike handles.
What
role do events like Loretta Lynn’s, Mini O’s, Spring A Ding Ding, Ponca and major regional championships play in identifying future stars?
Those events are where the best amateur racers in the country come together and compete head-to-head. They give riders a chance to prove themselves against the deepest fields in the sport. For manufacturers, teams, and support programs, they’re valuable opportunities to evaluate talent under pressure. Many of today’s professional stars made their names at events like Loretta’s and Mini O’s long before they turned pro.
Looking ahead to the future of amateur motocross, who are some up-and-coming riders or classes that have you excited?
The future is extremely bright. Every year we see talented young riders emerging through the 50cc, 65cc, and mini bike ranks. Rather than focus on one individual rider, what excites me most is the overall depth of talent we’re seeing across the country. The level of competition in the youth classes continues to improve, and I think we’re going to see another generation of incredibly talented racers making their way through the amateur system.
Tires are one of the most important performance components on a motorcycle because they’re the only connection between the bike and the ground.
If you could give one piece of advice to every amateur racer and family watching today, what would it be?
Never lose sight of why you started. Motocross is supposed to be fun. The riders who tend to have the most success are the ones who stay passionate about the sport, enjoy the process, and focus on continuous improvement. Chase your goals, work hard, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey because those experiences and memories are what you’ll remember most.
Bonus Question...
After all your years working with amateur motocross, what has been your proudest moment with Team Dunlop?
My proudest moments aren’t necessarily the championships or race wins. It’s seeing riders who came through the program as kids achieve their dreams, whether that’s becoming a professional racer, earning a factory ride, or simply growing into great people. Knowing that Team Dunlop played a small role in helping them reach those goals is incredibly rewarding. That’s what makes all the years of travel, trackside support, and hard work worthwhile.
Round Six - Promised Land MX
Trenton Pentz #111, and Skylar Bentley #52, along with Austin Phelps racing to the first corner!
Camden Fanala cruising with full control and proper body positioning charging into this corner!
Lucas Lecorchick
Milo Clista #212, pulling a holeshot on his Cobra!
Gabe Clark airs it out
Harling Bowler #44, eyes Van Russler #2, and Jaxx Hollobaugh #225, battling for the first corner!
South of the Border lights up the sky with a spectacular fireworks display during the Mosites Motorsports Dylan Slusser Memorial AMA Featured Pro-Am.
PAMX Rider of the Week - Promised Land MX
This week at Promised Land MX witnessed an intense battle between PAMX and MDRA. The rivalry between these two series is real.
With over 400 racers competing, this week’s rider of the week stood out exceptionally.
Congratulations to Alex Woskob on being named this week’s PAMX Rider of the week!
Women’s motocross is no longer a side story - it’s becoming one of the most exciting parts of the sport. The talent level continues to rise, the racing gets closer every year, and fans are taking notice.
The WMX Championship features an impressive lineup of racers from around the globe. American stars Lachlan Turner, Mikayla Nielsen, and Jordan Jarvis continue to push the pace, while Australia’s Charli Cannon and Taylah McCutcheon bring plenty of international firepower to the gate.
As if the competition wasn’t already stacked, Round Two at Thunder Valley MX in Lakewood, Colorado, got an extra boost when reigning Women’s World Motocross Champion Lotte Van Drunen of The Netherlands made the trip across the Atlantic to join the action. Seeing top riders from the United States, Australia, and Europe competing on the same track gave fans a glimpse of just how far women’s motocross has come.
From local amateurs to world champions, female racers are proving they have the speed, determination, and talent to put on a show every time the gate drops. If current trends continue, the future of women’s motocross looks faster - and brighter - than ever.
Round Two - Thunder Valley
Moto 1
When the gate dropped for the opening moto, Lachlan Turner wasted no time putting herself at the front of the pack. Mikayla Nielsen and Charli Cannon gave chase early, while Taylah McCutcheon and Jordan Jarvis settled into the top five. Meanwhile, reigning Women’s World Champion Lotte Van Drunen found herself buried deep in the field after a poor start and faced a major challenge.
Out front, Turner was simply untouchable. Lap after lap she stretched her advantage, turning blistering times that were several seconds faster than anyone else on the track. While Turner checked out, Van Drunen steadily sliced her way through the field, eventually breaking into the top five.
Late-race drama struck when Nielsen encountered a mechanical problem, opening the door for Van Drunen to move up another position. At the checkered flag, Turner claimed a dominant victory by more than 27 seconds. Charli Cannon finished second, Taylah McCutcheon secured third, while Van Drunen and Jarvis rounded out the top five.
Moto 2
The second moto began much like the first, with Turner charging to the front. However, an early crash briefly changed the story and handed the lead to Australia’s Charli Cannon.
The setback only seemed to motivate Turner. She quickly remounted, reeled Cannon back in, and reclaimed the lead before pulling away for yet another convincing victory. With the win, Turner remained perfect on the season, sweeping every WMX moto contested so far in 2026.
Behind the leaders, Cannon rode a solid race for second while McCutcheon held third despite battling a tough case of tonsillitis. One of the best races on the track developed just behind them as Piper Bell, Mikayla Nielsen, Jordan Jarvis, and Lotte Van Drunen traded positions in an intense battle for fourth.
Nielsen eventually broke free from the group and set her sights on McCutcheon. After closing the gap over the final laps, Nielsen made the decisive pass on the last lap to claim third place. Van Drunen also continued her charge, working past Bell late in the race to secure fifth.
With another perfect day, Turner left Thunder Valley firmly in control of the WMX Championship, while the growing field of international talent continued to show why women’s motocross is one of the sport’s most exciting classes.
See You At Round Three - High Point - Saturday, June 20
At just 18 years old, Lotte Van Drunen has already made motocross history. The talented rider from The Netherlands became the first Dutch racer to capture the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship and is widely regarded as one of the sport’s brightest young stars. Van Drunen brought international attention to Thunder Valley when she crossed the Atlantic to compete against America’s top WMX racers. Known for her aggressive riding style and remarkable speed, she showed her determination by charging from outside the top 15 in Moto One to finish fourth, proving why she is helping lead women’s motocross into an exciting new era.
A few words from the 1988 Blackwater
Champion
It’s great to be back online with no leash! What’s even better is that I’m not getting paid this time. This is simply a service for PAMX Online readers. It’s important that I don’t ruffle any feathers right off thebat, so we’ll ease into things. Then, somewhere along the way, I might slip in a little something that goes unnoticed by the critics— and especially anyone from Racer, particularly Roy Jansen.
Another day, another dollar. This is going to be fun: my innermost private thoughts cast upon the internet like bait on the first day of fly-fishing season. I don’t like to fly-fish anyway—it’s too expensive. I have to save all my money for my youngest daughter so she can maintain her Starbucks habit. I wouldn’t take her if it weren’t for the free bags of coffee grounds they give me for my garden. That’s how I rationalize the purchases: two birds, one stone. One lemonade, eight bucks.
Now I’m screwed. Jeff Cernic just sent me an email telling me this story has to be done ASAP. Does he know I have over 37,000 unread emails in my inbox? That’s not the way I roll. I like human interaction. What does ASAP even mean? Is it like the AMA?
Remember Appalachia Lake?
Have you ever been to a nighttime minibike pit race where riders had to drink a can of beer every five laps to continue? It was a circle track lined with screaming drunks and vehicles pointed inward with their headlights on for track lighting. I remember everything clearly because I was too young to drink.
One rider who stuck out in my mind had NASCAR-caliber pit stops, and his Honda XR75 could be laid
Tim Coombs
sideways like Kenny Roberts. He’s not with us anymore, but Jeff Provance was my hero back in those days. Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, he dominated at Appalachia Highlands, Brownsville, and High Point. He never went pro, but he was the guy.
That reminds me of the time Bob Gill tried to set a new world record by jumping Appalachia Lake on a Kawasaki KZ600. It was supposed to happen on a Sunday, but it had to be postponed a week because of rain that fell a couple of days before the jump. By Sunday, though, it was nice and dry on the bridge and in the spectator area. But not on the jumping surface.
Now, there were two types of bikers at the lake that day: about 300 racers and a couple thousand Hells Angels—back when they were real active. I can still remember how enthusiastically they cheered, “Burn the place down!” as they torched it.
I’m talking about a big pavilion where Tanya Tucker had performed just weeks before the riot—an even bigger structure than Loretta Lynn’s pavilion.
Let’s get something straight right now: O.J. Simpson was not the first person to escape in a white Bronco. The owner of the campground threw me, my dad, and Bob Gill into his Bronco, and we escaped the rioting bikers by driving through fields and fences, knocking them down without slowing down at all—not like O.J. creeping along on a paved highway.
To make a long story short, we got away, and Bob made the jump one week later. Unfortunately, he cased the landing. He was riding that big KZ600 street bike and wearing white boots that looked like something Santa Claus would wear. He came up about three feet short, and the metal gas tank wrapped itself around the frame from the impact of his legs.
He was paralyzed, but it never broke his spirit. He married a gorgeous blonde, traveled around the country in a van and lived life on his terms until he passed away years later.
I don’t think this is what I’m supposed to be writing about, but too bad. Maybe if I just “War and Peace” this thing, it’s bound to get better. You see, writing a story lets me boss around people like Jeff and my sister Carrie. She didn’t answer my call about the race rescheduling question, but she immediately called me back after I started writing. She’s never called me back before. Her answering machine even says not to leave a message because she won’t listen to it anyway. How did she know that I was throwing down ink—yes, I’m using a pen—because Tim Cotter’s little brother Todd got me kicked out of typing class before they were finished teaching the home keys.I never learned to type.
Todd was the one who kept jumping the start on the typing skills tests. His paper already had words on it while mine was blank, but apparently evidence didn’t matter.
Oh my gosh, this is going to get good.
By the way, Todd is still alive. Unlike some of the others I’ve mentioned.
I took my blank piece of paper to the principal, the vice principal, and four secretaries and presented my case for three entire weeks. Finally, they couldn’t take it anymore. I was pulled out of the chair of non-learning and put back into class.
I bounced back the same way I do when I crash off the start and somehow end up in about the same position as if I hadn’t wrecked at all.
But watch this: $@/!#%^**
I learned how to use the curse keys instead. Sweet.
You see, this is where Trump Derangement Syndrome really originated. It was originally Timmy Coombs Derangement Syndrome, starting around 2007 when I got back from being deployed to Fort Lauderdale for 26 days.Boom!
What did I tell you?
The makeup date for the canceled race is June 27 at Maple Shade. Great. Now I can wrap this thing up.
Oh yeah, one last piece of advice. If you’re going to the races and know you’ll be heading down to the line with a rider, don’t wear tennis shoes or house slippers like I did this weekend at Southwick.
Sure, they were comfortable, but I felt like some guy who buys one of those tiny front-end-loader tractors expecting to pick up something heavier than a pile of wet grass.
Wear a heavier hiking boot or a good pair of work boots. That way, when your rider gets a terrible gate pick and you have minimal time to prepare your behind-the-gate launch pad, you can go to work like Howard Russell on a D9 dozer after too much rain at Loretta’s and the 50 classes are up next.
Yes... There really was a Bob Gill!
33 years ago Tim Coombs graced the cover of Cycle News for his Blackwater 100 win.
PAMX
History: By
James Derek
The First High Point National
On May 29, 1977, the High Point National was born. This was the first big race on the Holbert family farm’s track, which came online in September of the previous year. Despite being in only its first full season of existence, it was able to apply to host an AMA Pro Motocross race because promoters Dave and Rita Coombs had already hosted a few other nationals at Appalachia Lake in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, and Appalachian Highlands in Keyser’s Ridge, Maryland. The first High Point National would be for 250cc riders, with a 500cc Support class.
The layout of the track went in the same general direction as it does today, but that’s about it for similarities.
Back then, things like tabletops and big booters did not exist, though there was one double-jump and a small set of whoops before the finish line. The triple jump that used to be behind the starting gate had yet to be invented, and lap times were nearly three minutes long. Continued...
Tony DiStefano, with his mechanic, Al Hahn (far left) and Carmen Delayon (left), Tony’s manager, and a couple buddies at High Point in 1977.
The First High Point National
Factory teams were a thing in 1977, but the semi-haulers that we see today were still twenty-some years away. Instead, every factory rider and his mechanic traveled together in a box van; privateers and local pros used either kidnapper vans or trailers pulled by pickup trucks. There were the “Big 4” Japanese brands, plus Husqvarna (when they were still made in Sweden), Maico (Germany), KTM (Austria), and even a couple of Harley-Davidsons (made-in-Italy but branded as being from Milwaukee).
There was very little media to speak of, as motocross on television was limited to one or two a year on ABC’s Wide World of Sports or the CBS Sports Cavalcade. That’s why footage from that first High Point National is so hard to come by. There is a silent home movie on YouTube out there, but that’s about it.
As far as the endemic magazines and newspapers go, a single writer/photographer, Jim “Greek” Gianatsis, did all of the work for the weekly Cycle News and monthly Motocross Action race reports. He shot all of the black and white photos from ‘77 that you see here.
The race marked the last round of that summer’s 250 Pro Motocross Championship. Suzuki’s Tony DiStefano, who hailed from Eastern Pennsylvania, was in control and about to clinch his third straight title. Only class newcomer Marty Smith of the Honda factory team had a shot at knocking Tony D. off. His holeshot to start the first moto sent the crowd of about 8,000 into something of a frenzy—including the ones who had climbed up into the power tower that’s long hovered above the first turn. Smitty was the most popular rider of the era, but on this day, he would be no match for Pennsylvania’s favorite moto son, DiStefano. He would not only win the overall but clinch that third straight title.
The field itself was packed with talent. As a matter of fact, the first seven positions in the results were all future Hall of Famers:
Tony D., Smith, Jimmy Ellis, Jimmy Weinert, Kent Howerton, Danny LaPorte, and Chuck Sun. Also in the race were Jim Pomeroy, who finished 10th, and Bob “Hurricane” Hannah, who unfortunately broke down. Results from that day right here: https://vault.racerxonline.com/1977-05-29/250mx/ high-point-raceway
The ‘77 High Point National was not the first outdoor national ever held in the Keystone State. Pennsylvania Motocross Park was in Allentown over on the east end of Route 40. It held a round in 1976, but that was it. Later, Steel City would join High Point as a national track in PA, its race lasting from 1988 through 2012 before the Delmont facility closed. As for the High Point round, it’s become one of the pillars of the AMA Pro Motocross schedule, hosting a round every year since 1977 but for one; in 2020, Covid-19 regulations meant that no mass gatherings could take place. Needless to say, much has changed in the world of motocross since 1977. Everyone races fourstrokes now, every race streams live, and riders from all over the world come here to compete. But 50 years after that first High Point National, another Eastern Pennsylvanian is in the lead mix for the 250 National Championship, Seth Hammaker of Bainbridge, PA.
ARMOR VISION
WIPE OFF, NOT TEAR OFF PERFORMANCE LENS PROTECTOR
-UNIVERSAL FITMENT
UNIVERSAL
-MAXIMUM PROTECTION
-ENHANCED VERTICAL VISIBILITY
AXIMUM ENHANCED
-HYDROPHOBIC
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Travis Pastrana
After Landing A Backflip At The White House, He’s Got Our Vote
Our very own Travis Pastrana is adding another incredible chapter to his already legendary career - this time at the White House. Pastrana was recently invited to perform one of his signature motorcycle backflips on the South Lawn of the White House as part of the America 250 celebration, making him one of the first motocross athletes ever to perform motorcycle stunts on the historic grounds. The invitation came through UFC President Dana White, who helped bring the unique event to life. Never one to enjoy the spotlight alone, Pastrana assembled an all-star team of motocross and freestyle motocross legends to join him. The group included Ricky Carmichael, Brian Deegan, Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Jeremy McGrath, and Keith Sayers - riders whose accomplishments helped shape the sport for generations.
For President!
For motocross fans, the event was much more than a stunt show. It was recognition of how far the sport has come. From local tracks and county fairgrounds to stadiums around the world, motocross has grown into a mainstream sport with global reach. Seeing some of its biggest names invited to the nation’s most famous address was a proud moment for riders and fans alike.
Pastrana has built a career on doing things that many thought were impossible.From X Games gold medals and freestyle motocross innovations to rally racing championships and countless record-setting stunts, he has consistently pushed the limits of what can be done on two wheels. Performing a backflip at the White House may be one of his most memorable accomplishments yet - not because it was the biggest jump, but because of what it represents for the sport he loves.
For one day, motocross had a place on the South Lawn, and Travis Pastrana was right where he has always been - leading the way.
In one of the most dramatic seasons in the history of the sport, Ken Roczen captures the 2026 AMA Supercross Championship. Congratulations, Ken. Never. Say. Never.
Dunlop’s newest motocross tire brings a more planted, predictable feel to intermediate-to-hard terrain.
Motocross tracks rarely stay the same from practice to the final moto. What starts with morning moisture can quickly turn into square edges, polished hardpack, dry acceleration chop, and slick corner exits. That changing surface is exactly where Dunlop designed the all-new Geomax MX54 to perform.
The Geomax MX54 is the next evolution in Dunlop’s intermediate-to-hard terrain motocross lineup and serves as the direct replacement for the proven MX53. Built with lessons learned from the MX53, updated technology from the MX34, and design influence from Dunlop’s race-developed Factory Spec and MX34 platform, the MX54 is aimed at giving riders a more consistent feel as the track breaks down throughout the day.
At its core, the MX54 is built around one clear goal: predictability. Riders need a tire that gives them confidence when the surface changes, especially in the conditions most racers encounter every weekend. The MX54 bridges the gap between soft-intermediate traction and hard terrain stability, creating a wider performance window for riders who face everything from prepped loam to dry, hard-packed race lines.
The rear tire features a tread pattern derived from Dunlop’s Geomax Factory Spec tire, designed to improve drive grip, slide control, and traction under acceleration. That means better forward bite when the track gets slick, along with a controlled feel when the rear starts to move. Instead of a tire that works in only one narrow condition, the MX54 rear is built to keep driving as the surface evolves.
Up front, Dunlop gave the MX54 an all-new tread pattern focused on turn-in precision, cornering stability, braking performance, and line-holding ability. Front-end feel is critical on hard, fast, and changing tracks, and the MX54 front was engineered to give riders more consistent feedback through ruts, flat turns, braking bumps, and slick entrances. Dunlop’s Progressive Cornering Block Technology Advanced is also used to increase flexibility and add more biting edges. The result is improved grip and compliance across a broader range of terrain. Combined with updated compound and carcass construction, the MX54 is designed to maintain performance over longer motos while improving wear resistance in abrasive conditions.
For racers, that matters. Amateur riders, weekend warriors, and serious competitors alike are often looking for one tire that can handle multiple tracks, changing prep, and long race weekends. The MX54 was developed for that reality. It is not just about peak performance on a perfectly prepped surface. It is about consistency from the first lap to the last.
“The MX54 will be a great tire for the conditions amateur motocross riders see week in and week out,” said Rob Fox, Amateur Motocross Support Manager. “Tracks change so much throughout the day, and this tire gives riders a planted, predictable feel when the surface gets hard, slick, or choppy. It is a tire that helps build confidence because it keeps working as conditions change.”
With the Geomax MX54, Dunlop continues to build on its deep motocross foundation while giving riders a tire designed for the way tracks actually develop. From morning moisture to late-day hardpack, the MX54 brings a more planted, predictable, and durable option to the Geomax lineup.
The Geomax MX54 is available in a full range of popular motocross sizes, giving riders from mini classes to big bikes the ability to choose the same trusted Dunlop performance across their program. Whether it is a young rider moving through the amateur ranks or a seasoned racer looking for a dependable race-day setup, the MX54 lineup gives riders more options for the changing track conditions found at motocross events across the country.
That makes the MX54 an ideal choice for a facility like Pleasure Valley Raceway, where conditions can evolve quickly throughout a race weekend. From freshly prepped morning motos to rougher, harder, and more technical late-day race lines, PVR rewards a tire that stays consistent, planted, and predictable. The MX54’s intermediate-to-hard terrain focus makes it a strong fit for riders looking for drive, stability, and confidence on one of the region’s most respected motocross tracks.
The all-new Dunlop Geomax MX54 is available now at MXTire.
Learn more at www.dunlopmotorcycletires.com
More from the Dylan Slusser Memorial
Far Left: Dylan Slusser 558 Moto Metals. Every racer who won a moto received one of these awesome awards. Special thanks to Wheaton Brothers for the great awards.
Left: Podium Announcer Andy Focht and Promoter Jeff Cernic at the Mosites Motorsports Dylan Slusser AMA Featured Pro Am. Below Left: Cleveland Brothers custom made awards for the Pro Am classes specifically made for Pleasure Valley.
Below: Cleveland Brothers Matt Curry and Jeff Cernic at the Cleveland Brothers Job Fair display at Pleasure Valley.
Darren Durham #159 pulls the holeshot at the Mosites Motorsports Dylan Slusser Memorial Pro Am.
PAMX Spring Championship Series Points Standings
65cc (7-11)
85cc (9-11)
More Flow, Less Friction. Behind The Gate With My Son
Man, it hits different.
It’s not about racing.
It’s not about winning.
It’s about being there in the moment, just me and him.
No distractions. No BS.
Just focus, trust, and that quiet connection right before the chaos.
Motocross gave us this.
A way to bond without having to say much.
A way to build grit, confidence, and real deal life skills without a lecture.
Just showing up.
Together.
Every time we line up, I’m reminded...
This isn’t just a sport.
It’s our thing.
It’s the space where I get to watch him grow, and somehow, grow with him too.
And with Father’s Day coming up, I think about that even more.
Because the older I get, the more I realize that being a dad is not always about having the perfect words. Sometimes it is just about being there.
Being there behind the gate.
Being there after a tough moto.
Being there when they crash.
Being there when they doubt themselves.
Being there when they win, when they lose, when they are mad, when they are scared, when they are fired up, and when they just need to know somebody is standing beside them.
That is fatherhood.
Not the perfect speech.
Not the perfect plan.
Just presence.
And motocross has a way of creating those moments that stick to your soul.
You can’t fake it behind the gate.
The nerves are real.
The pressure is real.
The fear is real.
The love is real too.
And as a father, when you are standing there with your kid, helping them get ready, giving them that last bit of advice, that last look, that last fist bump before the gate drops, something inside you knows this is bigger than dirt bikes.
This is life.
This is teaching them to show up when it is hard.
To breathe when the pressure hits.
To get back up when they fall.
To trust themselves.
To keep going.
To carry confidence into the world, not just around a track.
That is why I believe motocross is the greatest sport in the world.
It gives families something real. It gives fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, moms and kids, whole families, a place to come together and live something they will never forget.
And with Mount Morris coming up, I want to say this to every racer lining up, and to every dad standing behind that gate with their kid... Good luck.
But more than that, enjoy it.
Take a second and look around.
Take in the sound.
Take in the dirt.
Take in the nerves.
Take in that moment with your son or daughter.
Because one day, they will grow up.
One day, the bikes will be loaded for the last time.
One day, you will wish you could go back and stand behind that gate just one more time.
So do not rush through it.
Do not miss the gift because you are chasing the result.
Yes, race hard.
Yes, compete.
Yes, go after it with everything you have.
But remember what really matters. The memories. The lessons. The bond. The time together. That is the gold.
If you have been behind the gate with your kid, you know exactly what I mean.
And if you have not yet, you are missing out on the kind of moments you will talk about for the rest of your life.
Happy Father’s Day to all the moto dads out there.
And to everyone racing Mount Morris, go have fun, ride smart, race hard, and soak in every damn second.
Because this is not just racing.
This is family.
This is motocross.
And there is nothing else like it.
Scoob,
More Flow Less Friction
Happy Father’s Day!
PAMX - High Point Winners
Click on the this page for the link to play this game online or print out this page. To play online, find the first letter of each word below and drag across the word until it’s complete. Found words will automatically be crossed off at the bottom. Words can be found Vertical, Horizontal, Forward, Backward, or at any Angle. When complete, take a photo of the finished puzzle and email it, along with your name to: MXTIRE@icloud.com - We will email you a $10 Discount Coupon for MXtire.com
Open Pro Am Podium L to R: Jesson Turner (2nd), Devin Simonson (1st), Luke Fauser (3rd)
