MXP: Hey Newf! What are your thoughts on both the racing in the 250SX East/West Showdown last weekend, as well as Haiden Deegan getting docked one position? Apparently, the riders were warned about that section during the riders’ meeting, but it’s still a tough call to make.
RL: Once again, the racing was great in both classes. Deegan coming through the pack from a bad start was unreal to watch and honestly even at the 6-7 min mark, I didn’t think he was going to get it done. Hunters ride in the 450 class was about as perfect as it could get, but it would have been interesting to see what Kenny could have done with a better start as once Kenny got into second, him and Hunter stayed about the same. As far as the penalty went for Haiden, I think it was a bit much. It wasn’t a gained advantage at all, and to take the win away for that is over the top. The AMA has been so inconsistent with there rulings in 2026, you have to sit here and wonder who is going to get screwed next?
MXP: We are already at Round 11 of the Monster Energy Supercross Series as the riders and teams will head to Detroit this weekend. Hunter Lawrence just keeps doing what he needs to do to stay ahead of Eli Tomac in the 450SX points standings. Is it now looking like this is Hunter’s title to lose, or are we not quite there yet?
RL: No, not yet. I will say that was a weird main for Eli as he had the start he needed and those guys gapped him by over 30 second. We have seen this from Eli in the past, but not yet in 2026. Concerning yes, but let’s see how he rebounds this weekend. If things keep going the way they did last weekend, then yes, I would say it’s Hunters to lose after another couple rounds. Hunter is hitting all marks right now, so Eli needs to get some wins.
MXP: Riding season in some parts of Canada is here. Talk to us about your riding plans for 2026, as well as your two boys. Are you all healed up from last year’s shoulder injury?
RL: Yes, spring is here in BC and my boys have been putting some time on the bike. Meston has taken pretty well to the 85 so that’s been fun to watch. We are only three weeks away from round one here in Kelowna which is crazy to think. As for myself I have ridden once since September, I got a new Honda 450 but haven’t even ridden it yet haha. Honestly, I have so much on the go, and with both boys riding it’s a lot to manage. I want to ride, but by the time I get to the track and get them going I’m kind over it and just enjoy watching them ride. So, I don’t really know what my plans are. If I feel like it, I will ride and if I don’t, I’m ok with that as well. It’s not about me anymore. Yes, my shoulder is good for the most part.
