Rider of the Year- Kaven Benoit
This was obviously a difficult category to choose a winner in as multiple riders were worthy of this award. Benoit’s teammate Jess Pettis had an outstanding summer in the 450 class, winning five of the eight rounds and taking home his first-ever 450 Championship. However, when you factor in Benoit’s age, as well as his summer-long battle with USA teenage sensation Drew Adams, I feel like his 2024 performance was simply outstanding. When Benoit decided to return to National competition in 2023, many wondered if he would challenge for wins, or simply use the opportunity to ride off into the sunset on his terms. But, when he came out and won the opening round in Edmonton, expectations grew and all of a sudden Benoit was a 2023 title contender. Unfortunately, injuries and setbacks derailed Kaven’s 2023 250-class Triple Crown Series title hopes, leaving no choice but to turn his attention to 2024. Thankfully, Benoit took what he learned in 2023 and put those lessons to good use during the Triple Crown Series this past summer. After winning the opening two rounds, Benoit would only win one other moto on his way to the title. That win came to no one’s surprise at Deschambault, in front of his home fans. That moto, which demonstrated Benoit’s true grit and determination, not only electrified everyone in attendance, but it also gave Benoit the points cushion he needed heading into the final round at Walton Raceway. In the end, Benoit would win the 2024 250 Triple Crown Series Championship but just two points over Adams, one of the smallest margins we’ve ever witnessed here in Canada. As it stands now, Benoit will once again head into retirement and say so long to the grind of the Triple Crown Series. As he parts ways with Pro racing, Benoit can say that he’s not only a multi-time 250 Champion, but he’s also the oldest Champion we’ve ever had in Canada. And he’s accomplished what most top riders aren’t able to do, and that is go out of their terms! Congratulations and thank you, Kaven Benoit, you were fun to watch and a great inspiration to all the young riders out there. We can’t wait to see what is next for you!
