(Walnut, Illinois. May 27, 2023) – Nestled in America’s heartland, Illinois holds the title of the “land of Lincoln.” However, amidst its historic legacy, lies a hidden gem that has captured the hearts of many motocross enthusiasts. The small unassuming town of Walnut, Illinois, located just a stone’s throw away from former President Abraham Lincoln’s childhood abode, boasts one of the most renowned motocross facilities in the entire nation. Welcome to Sunset Ridge MX, a beloved cornerstone of the Midwest motocross community for over two decades and a cherished stop on the ATV Motocross National Championship tour for eighteen years. It is a place that holds a great significance for countless individuals, including the Ford Brothers Racing team, whose treasured memories intertwine with the very essence of this remarkable locale. Among those memories, one shining moment stands out most – witnessing Cody Ford etch his name in the annals of history, becoming the first AMA ATV Pro Class rookie in nearly a decade to secure an overall podium finish in 2019.
As Round 6 of the ATV Motocross National Championship dawned upon Sunset Ridge, the Ford Brothers Racing team brimmed with determination, each rider poised to chase their respective goals. Bryce Ford, an unwavering force in the first half of this 2023 season, set his sights on a fifth podium appearance in six attempts. Meanwhile, eldest brother Cody Ford, who holds a special affection for the hallowed grounds of Sunset Ridge, aimed to reclaim his place among the top ten riders in all of ATV motocross, a position he has consistently upheld in recent years. To further ignite the spirits of both riders, perfect weather conditions and a beautiful racetrack would play host to the kickoff of the second half of this captivating season.
Before the weekend of racing in Illinois even began, it was officially announced that Team USA will once again attempt to defend their title and compete in the 2023 Quadcross of Nations located in Italy this fall. Bryce Ford helped the American team achieve victory on the world stage last year in the Czech Republic, and now having won his first event as a professional, been the series points leader, and podiumed every race but one (where he finished fourth overall), Bryce would seem to be a shoo-in to return to the team. Wanting to leave no decision up for debate, Bryce was more motivated than ever to come out swinging in Illinois.
Race day commenced with morning qualifying, which saw Bryce and Cody Ford qualify 5th and 12th respectfully. As the day progressed and the track grew increasingly treacherous, the tandem continued to get quicker. Pro Moto 1 witnessed a defining moment in Bryce Ford’s young career. Launching off the gate to a mid-pack start, he carved his path through the fiercely contested field, overtaking competitors such as Brandon Hoag and Jeffrey Rastrelli. However, it was the exhilarating last lap, last corner maneuver on Nick Gennusa that electrified the crowd, propelling Bryce to a well-deserved position among ATV Motocross’ top three. In Moto 2, the adrenaline might not have surged quite as intensely, but the newly minted 21-year-old rode a masterful race running all alone in third-place from start to finish. With strong 3-3 scores, Bryce’s unyielding performance secured him yet another coveted podium finish, tallying five podium finishes in six attempts this season. Furthermore, he extended his lead in the series points standings, now sitting comfortably in second position with a commanding 18-point advantage over the rest of the field.
Sunset Ridge witnessed the triumphant fulfillment of Bryce Ford’s ambitions, and as fate would have it, the same would hold true for Cody Ford. The eldest Ford brother showcased his unwavering determination as he consistently navigated his way around the fringes of the top ten throughout Pro Moto 1, ultimately securing the 11th position. But Cody Ford had told us that he was anxiously awaiting the rough tracks that lay ahead on the circuit, and in Moto 2 Cody flexed his muscles by racing up from the tail end of the pack to inside the coveted top ten my moto’s end. The rider known as “The Foreman” has made his return to the top ten, with his solid 11-10 scores earning him tenth overall at Round 6. This achievement propels Cody to the tenth spot in the series points standings, with four thrilling events remaining in the captivating 2023 season.
“Bryce Ford worked hard for this podium. The competition is the best it’s ever been. This time the training was on point. Congratulations to Bryce on his podium and Cody on 10th overall. Holding strong in series points.” The Ford Brother Racing Team posted to their official social media accounts.
Following an impressive showcase of skill and determination in Illinois, the Ford Brothers Racing team, alongside the passionate ATV Motocross community, eagerly turn their focus towards the legendary Budds Creek circuit. With their sights set on maintaining this momentum that they’ve built up, both riders will be striving to make the series’ return to Maryland nothing short of unforgettable. We invite you to join us as we embark on the next exhilarating chapter of this thrilling journey, converging in Mechanicsville, Maryland, on June 17/18. Let the anticipation build, for the races are about to commence. We look forward to seeing you there, ready to witness the adrenaline-fueled spectacle unfold!
