ROAD TO THE RANCH: JOSH VARIZE
Josh Varize lined up on the gate for the very first time at the Loretta Lynn Amateur National Motocross Championship in the year of 2012, earning an impressive 5th place overall in the 65cc (7-9) Limited class. The Californian continued to build up his skill set throughout the next couple of years and developed from a top-five competitor in the 65cc classes to a Loretta Lynn’s Champion in 2014, taking the top spot in the 65cc (10-11) Limited class by winning all three motos. Varize hasn’t been able to add another title to his collection since then, but he’s still had a plethora of success throughout the last five years of competition in Hurricane Mills. The Orange Brigade rider has finished inside the top five overall approximately two-thirds of the time that he’s raced at Loretta’s and he was in top form last year in the 125cc divisions. Varize went 1-7-1 in the Schoolboy 1 class and came within one lap of taking the title, but ended up finishing in 2nd place overall due to the results of other riders changing on the last lap. The Californian has since moved up to the A class for the 2020 season and he’s ready to do battle at Loretta Lynn’s in one week’s time after securing his tickets at the Deseret Peak Midwest Amateur Regional at the beginning of June.
How’d the Regionals go for you?
My Regional went pretty well. Track and weather conditions were a big factor with thunder, lightning, and lots of rain so it made it tricky for sure. I’m glad I was able to get it done with a 3rd overall in 250 Pro Sport and a 4th overall in Open Pro Sport!
What’s a typical day of training been like for you getting ready for Loretta’s?
My typical day of training consists of mainly thirty-five-minute motos and on some days twenty-minute motos. followed by some sprints and starts.
Do you have a pre-race routine?
My pre-race routine is getting a nice stretch in, going to check out some lines on the track, and saying a prayer before the gate drops.
How do you recover after a twenty-minute moto in the brutal heat and humidity?
I recover from a twenty-minute moto by making sure I drink plenty of fluids and refuel my body with fresh fruit and food high in protein.
Is there one specific year at Loretta’s that has been the most memorable for you?
The most memorable year for me at Loretta Lynn’s was in 2014 when I won the championship in the 65cc (10-11) Limited class with a clean sweep in all three motos.
What do you think is the key to success at the Ranch?
The key to success at the Ranch is getting good starts, staying consistent in all of your motos, and to stay hydrated all week.