When you are immersed in the day-to-day operation of the race series, the time passes very quickly. Already to round five, it is like an entirely new beginning and very refreshing to see some new talent on the track. Looking back at the predictions for the Western Regional Series, there were certainly some surprises and as the forecast rolls out for the East, the trend will be the same. It is easy to pick the most popular factory riders as leaders of the pack, but do not be disappointed when others rise up into the top five. Who really did their homework? Tune in Saturday to find out. Words: Mike Bonacci of ClubMX
MAX VOHLAND #92: Some people can have a chip on their shoulder, Max has more like a boulder. From the depths of despair to the top of the speed chart here at ClubMX, Max has proven to be one resilient individual. His work ethic and desire to succeed are unsurpassed. His story has been well documented of how he fought through adversity to regain his position in the sport. On Saturday, another chapter will be written, and all eyes will be on him to see how it all plays out. At the training facility it is obvious what level of talent Max possesses. He can do the most difficult things on a bike and make them look simple, his natural talent and ability are amazing.
Making the decision to uproot his life and move to ClubMX was a big deal. The California kid decided to go “all in” on the training program and has been rewarded with a golden opportunity to rebuild his body and his career. The transformation from when he arrived to when he lines up for his first race this weekend is nothing short of spectacular. He has been an inspiration for the entire team and a role model for the amateurs at the facility. Looking back, Max was the highly touted prodigy when he turned pro in 2021. He was very young, and some thought his advancement was too soon. It did not take long for him to prove people wrong, recording a string of top five finishes in Supercross and Motocross. Fast forward to today we have to remember that Max is only twenty-one years old – still very young. The difference now is that he has lived through some difficult times and finds himself on the way back to the top.
MARK FINEIS #62: Mark can surprise you at any time. His performance, leading laps in the outdoor series at High Point was unexpected by the casual fan, but something we always thought possible. The same holds true for Supercross. On any given Saturday, Mark can get a holeshot and lead laps. We have proven that the bike is very capable, now it is just a matter of executing.
Mark made a name for himself in the SMX Next program scoring top fives in almost every event he entered. He has the speed, mindset and determination to make a name for himself as a Supercross rookie this season. Hailing from Indiana, Mark will get a few rounds under his belt before returning to his hometown near Indianapolis in a few weeks.
NOTE: Unfortunately, Devin Simonson and Reid Taylor both sustained injuries in pre-season training. Devin had a wrist issue and Reid a thumb issue. Both are scheduled to return before the end of the season, but no definitive date will be set until they resume training.
ClubMX have continued the production of our popular video series. Please share it as it shows some very cool behind the scenes things that most people never see. This one shows the ups and downs of Glendale and is very interesting.
Image: FXR
