MXP: Hey Newf! Let’s start by talking about the MXON event itself. How was being there with 102,000 people?
RL: It was absolutely insane! This was my fourth MXON, and I have never experienced anything like this in my life. The energy of the French fans at the drop of the first moto gave you goosebumps and made you feel like you were part of something special. That hillside where everyone was is crazy. I swear that people slept the night there just to save their spot. It was a pretty cool experience to witness and something I will never forget.
MXP: Overall, did you enjoy your week in France, and were you happy with Team Canada’s preparation heading into the weekend?
RL: Honestly, it really was a great trip. Kourtney Lloyd did a top-notch job from when it started to when it finished. Every tool needed for success was provided, and things during the week were great. The boys had a couple of decent days of riding, the bikes were good, and logistics and prep weren’t the issue, that’s for sure. The vibe was high, and in my opinion, everything was done right and professionally. The end result wasn’t anything close to what we wanted, but everyone did enjoy their time, and we all have to give a big thanks to Kourtney for providing that for all of us.
MXP: As you alluded to above, the result wasn’t what everyone was looking for. But it wasn’t for a lack of effort, that’s for sure. What are your thoughts on why things didn’t go as planned?
RL: You’re right, it wasn’t from a lack of effort. The boys put in the work, the team, the staff, the families, the Canadian fans, everyone Palms! Free practice went well, but when the gate dropped, things just kept going sideways. Crashes, dockings, and the list goes on. There is no question in my mind that the riders felt the pressure of performing, perhaps even more this year as the team was so well organized and all tools were provided to them. We saw Dylan crash more in this race than we have seen all year. Jess was solid but made little mistakes, which isn’t normal for him, and Ryder just needs more experience in these big-pressure races. I would have never thought in a million years that we would not make the A final, but there we were scratching our heads at noon on Sunday. It was 100% disappointing, especially with the sacrifice everyone made to be there and, of course, all of the fundraising. Time heals all wounds though, and all everyone can do is learn and move on to 2024.
