Racing

Faces Of The California MotoTrials

A look at the people behind the Donner MotoTrials

September 6, 2018

The 2018 NATC/AMA US National MotoTrials Series wrapped up with its series finale in northern California, just west of Donner Pass, where Sherco USA’s Pat Smage took a double win en route to his 10th US National MotoTrials title. The event was spectacular, as riders took to the rocky granite boulders of the Sierra Nevadas in an impressive balance between precision and power. Here’s a look at some of the faces of the Donner National MotoTrials.

Ten-time US National Trials champ and current EnduroCross star Geoff Aaron serves as team manager for the GasGas North America trials effort. After the Donner event, Geoff now shares his record of 10 US Trials titles with Pat Smage, who just wrapped up his 10th title in Donner.Shan Moore

Daniel Blanc-Gonnet went 3-2 over the weekend to secure second place behind Smage in the 2018 MotoTrials final standings.Shan Moore

Three-time National MotoTrials champ Scott Head is still active with the local trials club in northern California and was at the Donner event “checking,” or scoring, a section.Shan Moore

Beta USA’s Elliott Key is one of the up-and-comers of the sport and finished second both days in the Expert 125 class.Shan Moore

New Mexico’s Sam Fastle is one of the most stylish riders in the Pro class. The Sherco USA rider finished fourth in the final Pro standings.Shan Moore

Pat Smage and Ryan Young (nearest the camera) check out scores after Sunday’s event. Pat claimed his 10th title after sweeping the Donner event. Meanwhile, Ryan has six national trials titles to his credit.Shan Moore

Former Senior champion David Black of Kansas guards against blowing sand as he prepares to stand a lap.Shan Moore

Beta USA young gun Cole Cullins topped the Junior class on Saturday and then moved to the High School class for Sunday where he took another win.Shan Moore

Alex Niederer talks to the NATC’s Vonda Roper after Sunday’s event. Alex finished third in the Pro class despite having to do a trail-side repair.Shan Moore

Adventure rider Matt Dill rode his first-ever trials event at the Donner round and was all smiles after the event.Shan Moore