2025 Canadian National Preview

We are about a week out from Round one of the 2025 Canadian Nationals. We chatted with as many riders as we could and kept it pretty simple asking the same 3 questions to everyone:

-Anything new or exciting you’d like to share heading into the season?
-Any injuries coming into the season?
-What are your goals for the season?

The 2025 season is shaping up with a lot of unknowns. In the 450 class, three riders stand out as undeniable front-runners at every round. The CMXU pod predicted that across all eight rounds, there will likely be only two different winners, which, unfortunately for fans, isn’t a surprising forecast. Beyond the top three front-runners, riders 4th through 7th are relatively close in speed, and, to be honest, wildly unpredictable.

The 250 class is in a similar position to the 450s, with clear front runners but a deep, competitive field where several riders could claim that podium third spot. The 250 class will be again this year the exciting class to watch.

Lets get into it:

*FYI this is in no particular order, don’t read into it.

450

Jess Pettis

Jess is heading into 2025 with a new bike, a new team, and a new number. The reigning champ is coming off a strong offseason, making stops at a few key training spots down south, including a notable visit to ClubMX. Observers have already spotted some team-specific parts on his bike. ClubMX has a reputation for pushing boundaries, embracing trial and error to unlock real performance gains, especially with the Yamaha platform.

While the YZ450 is a proven machine straight out of the crate, it’s a significant shift from the KTM Jess rode last season. Still, with a strong 2024 campaign behind him and momentum on his side, Jess looks ready for round 1 from what we saw at the AMO race at team home track Sand De Lee.

Cale Foster has returned to the team to spin wrenchs for the champ this season, some familiar faces has created a very happy Jess at the races, and that can easliy translate to a very fast Jess. Not to mention, theres a wedding in the near future for Mr. Pettis.

“Obviously lots of change in the off season switching to a new team and brand. I’m very excited to drop the gate and get into this race season! It’s been a productive and fun off season

no injuries, and the body is feeling good and ready

my eyes are set at the top! The biggest goal is to be consistent each weekend and be in the title hunt come Walton!”

Jess Pettis at Sand De Lee Pre season AMO race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Dylan Wright

After one of the scariest crashes in recent memory, and a gutsy, though self-admitted “stupid” attempt at an early comeback, Dylan enters this season healthy. And a healthy Dylan is always a threat. While nothing major has changed on the outside, his offseason looked a bit different. He spent long days testing with HRC while the Lawrence brothers recovered from injuries sustained during Supercross, logging more hours on the bike than ever before. Expect him to come in sharp and ready.

“Honestly we have a new and exciting model of the CRF450R this year that has been an amazing upgrade! We also have a few new upgrades to the bike that I am excited about but can not share!

As far as injuries go, as of right now we’re all good to go and ready for the start of the season. Let’s drop the dang gate. Goals for the season are to win and win a lot.

The championship is always the main goal, but to get that, you have to first win some races!”

Dylan Wright at GDR Media Day
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Phil Nicoleti

Phil Nicoletti might just be the most unpredictable rider of the year. He’s a regular on the PulpMX Show and other podcasts, which he has been playing the underdog card, saying he’s just hoping for podiums. But let’s be real: given his history and speed, he’s more than capable of running with Jess and Dylan.

Regardless of how the results shake out, Phil’s presence alone brings major value to the series. With a regular spot on one of the biggest podcasts in the sport, he’s bound to talk about the Canadian series, and that kind of exposure creates buzz. Plus, Phil’s known for speaking his mind, which adds a whole new layer of entertainment and authenticity that fans gravitate toward.

The key now is for everyone involved to capitalize on this. Phil clearly understands his influence and we can assume wants to help grow the sport in Canada as he is coming here knowing the status of the sport here. We’d be smart to harness that momentum and let it elevate the series as a whole.

“No new news. Just excited to get 8 weekends of competition going.

Knock on wood, no current acute injury….but a helluva list of old nagging ones.

Realistically, try and be as close to Jess and Dylan as possible. I’m 9 years older than those boys, so hopefully they take it easy on their elders.”

**NO PHOTOS YET OF PHIL ON THE WLTN TEAM BIKES….coming soon.

Parker Eales

There are a few changes for Parker in 2025. With the entire Priority team making the switch to GASGAS bikes and Thor gear, Parker’s along for the ride.

He’ll continue balancing his full-time job during the week while flying in and out for race weekends, a setup that clearly worked last year, as he finished 6th overall in the series.

**Parker works a full time job, and is busy with life so we are going to give him a pass on the no reply!

Parker Eales Priority Media Shoot Day
*Photo: R4 Photo*

Tanner Ward

Tanner enters the new season with big changes, new bike, new team, and a new role as a dad. Despite ending last fall with an injury that required surgery, he’s had the time to fully recover and build a solid foundation heading into 2025. The 450 rider looks ready to turn the page and make a fresh statement when the gate drops. The team change looks to be a major win, not just for his racing career, but personally as well. He’s not only secured a ride, but also taken steps toward a future with Priority Mechanical beyond the track.

“Nothing too new and exciting, it’s been an uneventful offseason (which is good aha.)

Been healthy and getting even healthier since my injury in the fall!

Honestly I just want to continue to build off last season… it’s been a couple tough years, so just trying to get back to where I once was.”

Tanner Ward Priority Media Shoot Day
*Photo: R4 Photo*

Quinn Amyotte

Quinn Amyotte is one of the most marketable riders in the series, thanks to his vlogs, strong social media presence, and standout personality at the track.

He’s heading into his rookie 450 season with his own program, backed by Fox Racing and travel support from Guaranteed Comfort Racing. A breakout year is definitely on the table, but it's worth noting this is his first time ever racing a 450, something that can't be overlooked.

The work has clearly been put in, and all that is left to do for the 450 rookie is drop some gates and see where he ends up, and build off that!

”Pre season racing went good and have been progressively feeling comfier on the bike!

Goal for the season is to be consistently towards the front of the pack and to maybe battle for acouple podiums along the way. Very excited to get this 450 journey started!”

Quinn at Sand De Lee Pre Season AMO Race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Sam Gaynor

After a few years mixing it up on a two-stroke, Sam is set to return to the 450 class. He’s made the move from GasGas to Husqvarna, joining the Atlantic-based AVL Racing team. One unexpected twist this offseason was a switch in gear, after a long run with Troy Lee Designs, Sam is now representing Ontario-based brand OGs. His preseason performances have already turned heads, with moto wins serving as a quick reminder of just how fast he is on a big bike.

“I’m just really excited to get racing and get the season underway! The new Husqvarna 450 is awesome!

Still majorly struggling with my left wrist. Very minimal movement and minimal grip strength but I plan to give it my all!

Goals are to finish the season healthy! I obviously want to be a too 5-8 contender but the class is deep so we will see where I fit in!”

Sam on his 2024 set up, Looking forward to getting updates photos of Sam
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Julien Benek

Julien spent most of the offseason chasing the Supercross dream in the 250 West, eventually wrapping up the series aboard a Triumph 450. Unfortunately, a practice crash in Salt Lake City cut things short, and he’s currently in recovery. But in true Julien fashion, he's confident he’ll be ready to line up for Round 1 in Calgary. Although we saw him on the Triumph all winter, this marks his first outdoor season on the bike, paired with a fresh look in Troy Lee Designs gear.

“Nothing too crazy going on coming into this season. Same old Canadian nationals.

Yeah I did Injure myself at the last supercross round and I’m feeling the injuries more than I would like unfortunately.

Obviously it would be nice to get some podiums but just gonna focus on riding smart and in control.”

Julien at A2 2025
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Lars Van Berkel

Lars is making the trip from The Netherlands to spend the summer in Canada racing with the Guaranteed Comfort Racing team, adding to the growing list of international talent in the series, a great sign for Canadian moto.

Despite coming off an injury, he lined up for some pre-season races and showed that his pace is right there. Beyond the track, Lars brings added value with his vlog, which draws a strong international audience and brings more eyes to the series.

“Well, this is going to be my first full Canadian season. I’ve raced at Gopher Dunes before and at Sand Del Lee, so I’m already somewhat familiar with the Canadian series. I like to travel out west with my buddy Tyler in a big RV, which feels a bit like a European-style tour. I’m really excited about it.

As for injuries, I broke my elbow at the MSGP in Patagonia, Argentina, at the beginning of the year. I was pretty much out for 12 weeks, but I’m still fit and in good shape, so I’m confident I’ll be ready for the races—no stress there.

My goals for the season are to get on the podium again because I’ve done it before, and I believe I’m capable of it. I plan to work hard, get faster, and keep improving throughout the season.”

Lars at AMO pre season race at Sand De Lee
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Tanner Scott

Tanner made the switch to Honda this offseason but continues to run Fox gear. He wrapped up last season 11th overall, with a season-best 8th-place finish at Pilot Mound. Unfortunately, we don’t know much about Tanner yet, but we’re looking forward to connecting with him this summer and sharing more soon!

”New bike this year riding red. That’s always exciting had a new program this off season too which was a great time everything else basically stayed the same great people backing me

Nope in the best spot I’ve ever been coming into the season I feel

Be in the mix every moto show grit and heart and leave it all out there. I’d also really like to top 10 in points I’d like my number back.”

250

Ryder McNabb

Ryder could be the most talked-about 250 rider this season, marking his highly anticipated return to Canada after winning back-to-back 250 championships in 2022 and 2023. Ryder won his first championship with GDR before making the switch to KTM Canada the same platform he raced during his time down south with the AEO team. Now, Ryder comes full circle with a return to Honda for his Canadian comeback.

Under previous rules, winning two 250 titles would’ve forced a move to the 450 class, but a rule change for 2025 now allows riders to win up to four 250 championships before making the jump. This rule change currently impacts Ryder and Kaven Benoit, though Kaven appears firmly committed to retirement this time around. (for now)

That said, GDR team owner Derek Schuster made it clear at Media Day: anyone who wins the 250 title this year earns a 450 ride.

“Heading into the season, I’m really stoked with how well the bikes are performing and i’m excited to line up and get racing started

Im going into the season healthy, injury-free, and feeling great over all.

My goals for the season are to be consistent & have good starts through out the season.”

Ryder at GDR Media Day
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Preston Kilroy

After finishing 3rd overall in the 450 class in 2024, Preston and the MX101 team made the decision to move back to the 250 class and go after a championship. Preston has been a great addition to the series, an American rider who stays sharp by racing regional events down south. We got our first look at him on a 250 at the AMO Sand Del Lee pre-season race, and it's almost become a running joke: "Preston is fast on a 250." But the truth is, it’s no joke at all. Preston will be in the hunt for race wins and the championship all season long.

“As far as the season goes I’m honestly ready to get racing, I’ve been doing a lot of races in the states and just ready to keep that momentum going

And no injuries for me! I feel really fit and healthy heading into the season!

My goals for the season are to be a title contender and to be winning races. I know I have the speed and the fitness I just need to put everything together!”

Preston at Pre-Season AMO Sand De Lee Race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Dylan Rempel

This could be one of the biggest storylines of the season: Dylan Rempel joining KTM Canada Red Bull Racing. Coming west in a sprinter van with KTM will be big talks and lots of coverage. Finishing a top result of 5th last year, expectations have definitely risen.

That said, the offseason effort and team support have been clear. KTM Canada is known for setting the standard as the only “factory”-backed team in the series. We also caught Dylan at the AMO Sand Del Lee pre-race, where he showed steady improvement with every lap.

“Everything has been going very well with the new team and bike!

Exited to go racing and hope to be on the box and battling for some wins.”

Dylan at pre-season AMO Sand De Lee race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Dylan Walsh

We don’t know a lot about Dylan yet, but we saw him at Walton last year where he finished 6th, so we can expect good things from this Kiwi coming to Canada. Another international rider only adds to the series’ depth and excitement.

Dylan spent the winter racing Supercross, finishing 16th in the 250 West points standings. Dylan joins the WLTN team full-time after riding with them aboard the 250 for last year’s final round at Walton.

“Nothing too new or exciting from the outside but I am really excited for something new and different so should be a good summer with the team.

No injuries which is good!

my goals for this season is to just ride like myself , have a good time with the team and obviously leave with the #1”

Dylan at Walton 2024
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Noah Viney

Noah has spent most of his life in California, but he’s originally from Ontario. He’s clearly excited for his return to a full pro racing season up north.

When GDR released their rider salaries, Noah’s was reportedly bonus-only, which only fuels his hunger for results. While he mentioned at Media Day that he wasn’t fully aware of the structure, we’re confident it will be sorted well before Round 1.

Despite his young age, Noah brings a wealth of experience and will lean on that throughout the season. He’s also recovering from a shoulder injury but expects to improve steadily as the year progresses.

“Excited to be here to race the full series in Canada - the place I was born and where riding started for me. I love the GDR team and I have a long standing relationship with Honda - so this is where I want to be. This series fits perfectly between Supercross/Arenacross and WSX. I am friends with both Ryder and Dylan so that makes this even better.

I had Labrum Surgery (shoulder) it’s been an issue for a while, but I had a bad crash and dislocation at San Diego SX - so it needed to be fixed. I have not been on the bike long but I am feeling strong

Make it through the season injury free and work my way to podiums - I feel like my starts and sprint speed is there, the endurance will come with time on the bike”

Noah at the 2025 GDR Media Day
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Sebastien Racine

Sebastien is one of the few riders with almost no offseason changes, same bike, same gear, and same mechanic. He finished 4th overall last year, including a 3rd-place podium at Pilot Mound.

Watching him at Sand Del Lee, Sebastien looked fast and, notably, his line choices stood out. Both motos showcased his crafty ability to jump into corners and find energy-saving, momentum-building lines that others missed.

That skill will be a huge asset on national tracks this season, where smart line selection is key.

“Nothing too exiting just been butting in the work and keep trying to be better!!

This off season has been great no injuries so very happy about that!!

My goals are to get a couple wins and just always be up there every weekend!!”

Racine at pre-season AMO Sand De Lee Race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Wyatt Kerr

Wyatt made the switch to GASGAS and Thor gear this season, along with the rest of the Priority team. He wrapped up last year 5th overall. Wyatt’s a definite dark horse for 2025.

What’s really unique about the Priority crew is how Peter has created a career path for his riders beyond racing, something rarely seen at this level. Two team members are actively pursuing trades, with Wyatt already holding a G2 Gas Technician license and now working toward his Sheet Metal apprenticeship. It's a powerful example of building both champions and futures.

“Been a pretty consistent winter prepping with the torq fit group. Spent a lot of time riding and being around the team this spring. We were able to attend both south eastern amo events but had some things come up that I couldn’t attend the last one at SDL.

I did have a little hickup and needed some time off but I look forward to being able to be at round 1 and put a good effort forward. My goals for this year are just to build off the results from last season. I had 1 podium last year and fought all season for the 3rd in the championship. Unfortunately I drew a short straw at round 7 and 8 dropping me back to 5th. My goals this year is to start stacking podiums and be consistently in the top 4 to lad myself some good overalls. Looking at the long term it’s to be able to be on the podium at the end of the year.

Small victories that will add up to the big ones. Priority has a really good group of people, and im thankful to be apart of this family.”

Wyatt Kerr 2025 Priority Press Release
*Photo: R4 Photo*

Blake Davies

Blake spent the winter testing the waters in Supercross while getting comfortable on the new Triumph, following the International team’s switch. He finished 16th in the series last year, kicking things off strong with a 6th-place finish in Calgary, a result that felt like his true potential.

Unfortunately, a crash in Lethbridge derailed his momentum, and he couldn’t replicate that early success through the rest of the season.

“Stoked to be coming into this season healthy!

Big goal for me this year was Supercross! Getting through my first season safe and gaining tons of experience. I couldn’t have hoped for anything better!

Coming into this outdoor season I’m excited and just going to see what I can do being a big guy on a 250.”

Blake at Sand De Lee Supercross 2025
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Tyler Gibbs

Running his own program, Tyler grabbed a season-best 9th at Deschambault last year. He’s remained consistent with key sponsors, Yamaha and Fox Racing gear, and recently lined up at Seattle Supercross, where it seems his passion for SX was reignited. Here’s hoping we see more of him under the lights next year. Tyler’s always a showman on the track, so when the gate drops in Calgary, expect him to lay it all on the line.

“I’m excited to be back with Yamaha Canada for the outdoors again wouldn’t be able to do it with them and GA Checkpoint. I’m pumped to go racing here very soon.

As for injuries just the usual sore lower back some other stuff but my Guy Dr Sigalet have been working on it.

Goals top 5 each weekend nothing worse then that. Also podium guy is pretty cool so we will see what happens at round 1.”

Tyler at Seattle SX 2025
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Clayton Schmucki

Safe to say Clayton put in the work this winter in Texas. He came out swinging at the Wild Rose Super Series, looking sharper and faster than ever. It’s always tough to gauge riders on easier tracks with limited competition, but Clayton was putting together some impressive motos, arguably the best we've seen from him. He and his family are traveling the series together, with younger brother Trey to race in the Supermini class.

“Ya I’m feeling really good coming into the 2025 season, we put in lots of work in the off season and are more prepared than ever, with my new bike setup teamed with D-Spec Motosport, and Turple Bros Red Deer. As well as our new sponsors Fox Racing Canada, and Pure Alberta Beef.

Thankfully I have no injuries coming into the season this year, and will be able to give 100% right off the start.

My goal for the 2025 season is to gain the speed to be able to run with the front guys and be in the fight for top 5. As well as always having fun and staying healthy throughout the season!”

Schmucki racing a Super Series round at Wild Rose Mx Park
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Preston Masciangelo

The big debate with Preston is will he race in US or Canada. Being 1 of 2 Canadians to put a bike in a 250 Supercross main this winter it would be an asset to the series to see him on the gate. Preston only raced one round of the series last year and finished 13th.

“As of right now I’m out in Arizona getting ready for round one of pro motocross at fox raceway. Very excited to go racing this weekend. This national has been on my bucket list forever, so I’m excited to tick that box and see what I can do out here. I feel strong and healthy after a little time off the bike at the conclusion of my supercross season.

As of right now I’m just kinda going with the flow, we’ll see how this weekend goes for me, and that will kind of determine what my plans are for the rest of the season. My goal out here is to be inside the top 20, I’ve been feeling great on the bike outdoors lately, and a top 20 result in this field would be awesome.

As for Canada, we’ll see what rounds I’ll be able to get to depending on the rest of the summer plans. Back at home I believe I can be a top 5 guy. We’ll see how it all goes!”

Preston at SD Supercross 2025
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Bobby Gravel

Bobby Gravel had a strong 2024 AM season, emerging as one of the standout riders in the Intermediate class at Walton. In 2025, he’s taking the next step in his career with support from the WLTN Kawasaki team. Bobby is the kind of rider who can surprise everyone, capable of pulling off a breakout moto and delivering results that turn heads.

“I am super excited too get the season started. I’m really liking the bike and i’m feeling ready and comfortable coming into the first round.

I’m feeling good and healthy coming into the season. Had a crash at auburn hills a couple weeks ago that knocked me out. We went to the hospital and got a ct scan but everything was good. I took a week off of riding too make sure my head was 100% ready before getting back on the bike.

my goals for this season are too learn and to become more mature during the motos. Just become smarter and get better every single round. I’m aiming for consistent top 10 finishes and i an hoping to crack into the top 8 a couple times this summer.”

**NO PHOTOS YET OF PHIL ON THE WLTN TEAM BIKES….coming soon.

Liam Dodds

Liam Dodds has been putting in time on the snow bike all winter and getting seat time whenever he can back home in B.C. In 2025, he'll be balancing his high school graduation year with a full run at the Canadian National Series. in 2024, Liam was awarded the Yamaha Bike Award during Walton Week and will be racing that very machine throughout the 2025 season.

“Noah Porter and I are travelling to all 8 national rounds this year. We will be racing under “Bluemoto.mx” as our team sponsor as we compete for the stages. Noah will be racing in the 450 class and I will be racing in the 250 class. Noah and I are extremely excited to start racing as it will be both are first full year!

I have been pretty healthy coming into the season, racing our local provincial races and ridding and training as much as I can while also trying to finish school.

I had a pretty good talk with the “Newf”(Ryan Lockhart) with setting goals and I am setting a realistic goal of top 15 for the first couple of rounds and just trying to be consistent is my main goal and as the series goes on I will be setting new goals along the way.”

Liam Practicing at home track in Revvy pre season
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Zach Ufimzeff

After a long run with one team, it’s exciting to see Zach make a fresh move for 2025. He’s switching to Honda, joining Guaranteed Comfort Racing alongside three teammates for what’s shaping up to be a standout summer. While he’s been dealing with some health challenges, Zach is putting in the work to get back to 100% and ready to compete at his best.

“Just super excited to be with the Guaranteed Comfort Racing team this year. We’ve really got a great group of people this year and I’m looking forward to spending the summer with these guys. Not an injury but still just dealing with health issues.

We’ve come a long way, and are in a much better spot and looking to battle. Just have to be super on top of things. If you see me pulled over cooking, that’s why hahaha. Goal is to be in the fight. Week in and week out, put myself in good positions. And most importantly have fun, take on the challenge as it comes.”

Zach on the line at AMO Sand De Lee Pre season race
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

WMX

Kaylie Kayer

Kaylie has logged plenty of hours on her Yeti Snowbike this winter, an off-season advantage that’s clearly paying off. She’s also taken on a role with the company as a tester and mechanic, adding another layer to her involvement in the sport. For 2025, Kaylie returns to the International team, now aboard a Triumph, and she has nothing but praise for the new setup. Last season, she and her mom hit the road chasing the series while Jay held things down at home, a plan that looks to repeat this year. It might be their last full run, though, as Kaylie has her sights set on bigger races in 2026.

“Excited to be doing both the west and east again this season on the new Triumph and team Rad Torque International Triumph. My goals are to be consistent and have fun!”

Photoshoot day at Revvy
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Katrine Ferguson

Katrine wrapped up her first year of university while still managing to head south for off-season riding and training. She finished last season with major improvements, and there’s every reason to believe that momentum has continued. While following the East series, Katrine found guidance and support from Eve and Sylvain, who seemed to take her under their wing. With Eve retired, we joked that Sylvain might have found his next protégé.

‘This winter has been a lot different then years previous with training and school. I was able to finish my first year of university , while sneaking away during my breaks to go train for outdoors down south. I have been training in Oklahoma at Reynard training complex, Robbie’s insight and attention to detail has been great to work with. He is demanding and loves to point out what I’m doing wrong , haha. It’s been a great match for me.

As some of you might know, if you keep up with my Instagram, I was in a crash in the fall. I was landed on over a jump and broke my scapula in three spots, two ribs and punctured my lung. I was back in the gym as soon as I was cleared working on rehab with my dry land trainer Chris McDole. I am now the strongest I have ever been coming into the 2025 season, ready to make a comeback.

My goals for this season are to continue to to tap into my agressive riding style while staying consistent through out the year. I would like to finish within the top 5 in all of the west and east coast rounds.”

Sand De Lee 2024
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Destiny Singerland

Destiny was one of many women who headed south for off-season training, joining the Alberta crew in Texas. She continues to make strides every time she hits the track, and with the right guidance now in place, she's quickly becoming one to watch. Racing in memory of her brother Jason, adds an extra layer of purpose and determination 2025 is shaping up to be her breakout year.

“Heading into the 2025 season, I'm super stoked that Frank from Trackside Distillery reached out and wanted to sponsor me for another year. I couldn't be more thankful for his support, along with all my other sponsors!

Thankfully, so far this season, I am injury free and ready to race!

My goal for 2025 is to honor Jason's memory by just having fun racing. ♡ We are planning on hitting all the West nationals and no definite plans yet, but there's a possibility of racing a few east rounds depending on how the West goes.”

Destiny at Wildrose super series
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Brandy Mcarthy

We caught Brandy putting in laps at Gopher Dunes during our recent trip out east, and she also lined up for the AMO round at Sand Del Lee, proof she’s been putting in the work. She looked right on pace to be fully prepped when the WMX series heads east, logging long, consistent motos in the heat that show she’s ready for the demands of a national race day. Although she rode the 125 last year, this will be her first full season strictly on big bikes, with no return to the Supermini class.

“It’s my first year on the big bike (KTM 125) so I’m excited to see what I can do.

Knock on wood I’ve been good so far planning on staying that way. Lol

Im hoping to do the east triple crown rounds and with it being my first year on the bigger bike my goal is to be in the top 5 for this year.”

Gopher dunes practice day
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Ani Ferguson

Ani spent a lot of time down south this winter riding and racing, including competing at the JS7 Freestone event. Part of that race involves earning a coveted spot at the JS7 Compound for a training week with James Stewart ahead of Mini Os, and Ani did just that. With a ticket to the compound secured, a trip to Mini Os is now locked in, and it only makes sense for the whole Ferguson crew to head to Florida. But first, there are some Canadian National podiums to chase!

“I am really excited coming into the 2025 Canadian season. I have spent a total of a month and a half training in Oklahoma at Reynard Training complex. I also hit up a few US amateur nationals including Spring a Ding and the JS7 Freestone national.

On top of riding I have been working full time with my physical trainer Chris McDole on strength and fitness. I am feeling the best I have ever felt coming into this season.

My personal goal for this year is to crack the top 5 more consistently.”

Ani Lethbridge 2024
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Tea Ferguson

Every time we catch up with Ferguson mom, it seems Tea has picked up a new sport, and this year, it was rugby. Safe to say, she’s not someone to mess with. Quiet and kind off the track, Tea’s got that hidden grit, and we have a feeling we’ll see it come out in full force this summer.

“I’ve been enjoying my grade 11 year, playing all the school sports and maintaining an over 95 average. As well as working with a dry land trainer and spending a bit of time riding down in Oklahoma, the track pig and constant tornado warnings have kept things exciting there!

With my previous pelvis and back injuries, I still have nagging symptoms but do not feel like they will affect me substantially this season.

As for this years goals I would like to be closing in on the top five.”

Tea at Lethbridge 2024
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Jamie Astudillo

Jamie is the only rider returning to the 2025 season who has earned the #1 plate as she heads east. But before she lines up for the Canadian Nationals, she’s set for big things in the U.S. WMX scene, racing the full pro series, which includes six rounds across the country, held on Fridays ahead of the AMA Men’s Nationals. Jamie has been a driving force behind the series, working tirelessly behind the scenes to help make it happen, efforts that haven’t gone unnoticed. She also had a packed winter, representing Team USA in Australia at the women’s equivalent of the MXoN, where they narrowly missed the win by just two points. Jamie returning to Canada is a massive asset for the series!

“Nothing too new from me just want to give a big shout out to Peter from Priority MX for being a huge help on getting me back up to Canada this season!

No injuries from me thankfully.

The goals are to defend my title and I hope to possibly race a round in the 250. That’s something I’ve been wanting to do so if all goes well I’d like to do a round against the guys.”

Amelie Croteau

Eve Broduer

She just can’t say no to a Quebec National! While we won’t see Eve for the full season, she’ll be lining up for the Quebec rounds, and there's no doubt her speed is still very much there.

“Haha yeah only Ste-Julie and Deschambault!”

Hannah Cole

Fellow East Coaster Hannah Cole has spent years training down south, and it sounds like it’s all about to pay off. Word is, she’s been “flying at the test track” something we've heard from more than a few sources. Hannah is one of the few riders making the trip from the east to the west to do the full series. Hannah will be our darkhorse for the West series.

“I’m super excited to be racing west coast this year and I’m ready to get the season started! I’ve been working really hard this winter and I’m excited to prove myself.

This year I’m looking to be in the mix every weekend. Last year was a learning year for me so I’m more than ready to get things started and show everyone how hard I’ve been working.

No injuries feeling healthy and ready and I’d like to keep it that way!”

Danika White

Danika White has become a driving force in women’s motocross. Since founding SurfinBerms in 2016, she’s helped establish it as a cornerstone of the women’s moto community in Canada and beyond. On race day, Danika consistently holds her own, but her impact goes far beyond the track, she inspires others to pursue their goals and share in the passion that fuels the sport. For 2025, Danika remains on Husqvarna but has made a gear change and taken on a new career path with Troy Lee Designs. Adding to her full plate with CJR and SurfinBerms, she’s now also a Sales Rep for TLD, positioning herself as a female leader within the industry and fully immersing herself in the sport she loves. Don’t be surprised to see the gate drop in Calgary and Danika snag the holeshot, proving she still has that dawg in her.

“Dang, looking forward to lining up with all the ladies! With lots of time on my Husqvarna FC250 this past year and in a new gear brand with Troy Lee Designs I’m looking forward to get racing and spicy some things up!

Injury free so far this season, let’s keep it rubber side down. ‘laughs’

Jeeze I think this is my 12th season showing up to these races, with only two West Round destinations I’d want to be leaving with a Top 10 — if we crack a top 5 in a moto we’ll definitely be slapping high fives in my pits and having a cele ice cream! Thanks SpecMoto, see you at Round 1 in Cowtown!”

Danika Pre-Season photoshoot day at Lethbridge
*Photo: Tree Three Media*

Bailee Bancarz

Bailee spent the winter in Texas putting in serious work, and word was she was absolutely flying, so we were excited to see her put a full season together. Unfortunately, shortly after returning to Canada, she went down and suffered a significant shoulder injury about a month ago. When we reached out to check in, she was literally just coming out of surgery! We’re wishing her a smooth and speedy recovery, and figured we’d hold off on asking for any statements fresh out of the OR!

Ciel Ferguson

Although Ciel isn’t racing this year, she’s stepping into a new role as team manager for the Ferguson team. With three racers now chasing the national series, the logistics alone are a serious undertaking. On top of that, Ciel has picked up a camera for 2025—so expect a big boost in both the team’s visibility and marketability. We joked that she might be the first female team manager we can think of… and we’re running with it.

“This year I won’t be racing as much as I have in the past. I will be taking a step back from competing in the WMX nationals and focusing more on running the behind the scenes of our professional race team, Ferguson Racing. I also picked up a camera over the winter, so Im now getting into the media side of things which I have been loving!

My goals for this year are to have lots of fun at the races and to support my sisters as best as I can In their fight for the Championship! I see a lot of opportunity for growth and am really excited for what the future holds for us as a team!”

Ciel with her team riders (aka her sisters) at Walton 2024
*Photo: Tree Three Media - Presented by: CMXU Podcast*

We’re also hopeful to see riders like Jordan Jarvis return to the series for a few rounds in 2025. We spoke with her during the off-season, and there were discussions about a potential full-season run to chase the championship but sadly things didn’t work out. Another front-runner, Annalyse Lapushinsky, is stepping away from the series this year following a major crash at Chilliwack AX this winter. But this isn’t the last we’ll see of her on the national stage, she’s still racing at the regional level and staying sharp.

The USA WMX Pro Series kicks off on May 23 in Pala, with around 23 riders registered, many of them seriously fast. The front-runners are strong enough to compete in the Canadian 250 class, presenting a huge marketing opportunity that, surprisingly, no Canadian teams seem eager to capitalize on. WMX will grow over the next few years as many womens sports are, its just a matter of what Canadian team can figure that out the fastest and use that to their benefit.

That’s a wrap on our 2025 pre-season review, we hope it gave you some insight to help make your picks for the season ahead. It’s a big year for SpecMoto too. We’ll be covering every round and sharing all the behind-the-scenes content we can get our hands on.

Tell us what you want more of, we’re a growing outlet, and we’re here to bring you the content you care about most.

The countdown to Calgary is on. Let’s go racing!

2025 Pre-season Preview

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