MXP: Hey Newf! First, we want to ask you about the upcoming WSX opening round in Vancouver. What have you heard about which Canadian riders might be lining up, and how will this event go over in downtown Vancouver?
RL: I haven’t heard of any Canadians that will race. I’m sure that there are a few who would love to, but I’m not sure if the format that WSX has in place for this year allows wild cards like in previous years. I think it would be beneficial for WSX to include some locals, which would help with spectator turnout, but I guess we will have to wait and see. As far as the event goes, this is not the first time SX has come to Vancouver and the last time it was here, there were James Stewart, Chad Reed, and Ricky Carmichael racing, and I think there were only 15000 people in the stands. I think they will struggle with attendance, which is a bummer. I hope it’s successful, as I would love to see it return for years. The Buzz with the local motocross scene is great, but that is only a small part of it.
MXP: The SMX Playoffs begin this weekend in Charlotte, and it looks as though all of the top riders will be there. Would it work if the Triple Crown Series went to a similar format in 2025? Four rounds on hybrid SX/MX track at Gopher Dunes?
RL: Personally, I like the idea of it, but as far as working in Canada, it really boils down to timing and whether the teams would get behind it. Look at the AX/SX portion that Triple Crown had in place the last few years; it never really worked. It just comes down to team budgets and timing. It would need to be announced early and make sense for everyone to stick around and do it.
MXP: Looking back at your summer, what was your favorite race and track, and why do you feel this way?
RL: It’s hard for me not to go with Deschambault. Not only is the track epic, but it is also the best facility in Canada. It has everything from swimming pools to bicycle pump tracks, an RC car track, and laundry facilities, making it fun for the whole family.
