ROAD TO THE RANCH:
RYDER ELLIS
The 51cc (7-8) class was stacked with talent last year at Loretta Lynn’s, but that didn’t stop Team Green Kawasaki’s Ryder Ellis from putting himself at the top of the pecking order come the end of the week. It was the Californian’s first title at the Ranch, but it’s been a long time coming as he’s won at just about every other major amateur motocross event across the country. Ellis made his racing debut at the Loretta Lynn Amateur National Championship back in 2016 in the 51cc (4-6) Limited class where he finished in 27th place overall. In 2017, he followed it up in the same class with an incredibly impressive 2nd place finish by way of 3-3-1 moto scores. Although he didn’t get the gold medal, Ellis announced his speed and talent to the amateur motocross world, putting him on track to earn the factory support that he has today from Team Green Kawasaki. In 2019, the Team Dunlop Elite rider put it all together at the Ranch during his last season competing in the 51cc classes, earning the number one plate in convincing style with a trio of moto wins. Ellis is competing in the 65cc (7-9) classes this year and looks poised to challenge for a championship yet again after clinching the first qualifying spot in both divisions and winning a total of five motos at the Deseret Peak Midwest Youth Regional.
How’d the Regionals go for you?
Regionals went good. I was pumped to get back to racing! We traveled to Utah, I was able to earn two championships on my KX65 - even grabbed a few holeshots!
What’s a typical day of training been like for you getting ready for Loretta’s?
I have been doing some cardio and mountain biking with my bud around the lake in the mornings, then I hit DT1 for some motos or ride out at my friend’s private property in the afternoons.
Do you have a pre-race routine?
I walk the track with my dad, we watch some of the motos and I ride my bike to get warmed up. Before I go out to race my mom always prays with me. Then it’s GO time!
How do you recover after a twenty-minute moto in the brutal heat and humidity?
I drink water to stay hydrated and get in the shade to cool off and I usually grab a snack before going back out.
Do you feel more pressure coming into Loretta’s this year to back up your performance from last year?
I always want to do good for my team and sponsors, I’m going to go out there and do my best.
What do you think is the key to success at the Ranch?
Holeshot or get a good start so that you can get out in front, be consistent, stay cool and hydrated, be sure to get rest so that you’re ready for long motos! HAVE FUN!!!