MXP: Hey Newf! Let’s begin this week with a question regarding your racing plans. You’re off to a Loretta Lynn’s Qualifier this weekend. How serious are you about making a run at qualifying for the big race in July and going for a podium finish?
RL: I’m serious, for sure, but the two qualifiers will have to go really well for me to commit. Doing this race requires a lot of time and a ton of money. Like I said, if the qualifiers go well and I think there is a shot at being competitive for a podium or top 5, I will get to work. I can’t imagine that I would go if I wasn’t 100% ready and competitive. So we will see, one step at a time.
MXP: The 2024 SuperMotocross Series is back this weekend at Gillette Stadium. The weather forecast doesn’t look great in the Boston area, with cool temperatures and the chance of rain. The riders have had a weekend off to regroup and prepare for the final five rounds. Which rider comes out swinging this weekend in the 450SX class?
RL: Shocker, another soft rutted track. If Webb wants to take this thing down to the end he needs to come out in win or at least be ahead of the Jett. I’m really curious to see if Tomac can back up what he did two weeks ago. Once again, I just keep going back to Jett, and how good he is; even if I’m on his team and the points are down to eight, I’m not stressed because he is the best guy. Look at what has to be thrown at him to lose. As far as coming out swinging, I’m going with Jett Lawrence!
MXP: A few weeks ago, the MRC announced that the 2024 WCAN will take place at Temple Hill Raceway in Raymond, AB. How do you think the track will shape up, and what is your best memory from racing there?
RL: Temple Hill Raceway in Raymond, AB, has always held a special place in my racing memories. It’s a track with a unique sandy surface and a hard-packed base that gets incredibly rough. I’m thrilled to be heading there again, as it’s always refreshing to tackle something different. My best memory was in 1999, my first year doing the full series. I pulled the holeshot in the second 250 moto and held my ground in the top 3 for a significant part of the moto at just 15 years old, trailing behind JSR and Blair Morgan. It was a proud moment for me, ending up with my first top five.
