ROAD TO THE RANCH: BENJAMIN GARIB
Benjamin Garib has limited experience at the Loretta Lynn Amateur National Motocross Championship compared to the majority of his competitors, making his debut at the Ranch only two years ago in 2018. The first time that Garib raced in Hurricane Mills was as a member of the RM Army, impressing in his first showing at Loretta’s with a top ten overall finish in the Mini Sr. 1 class. Last season, he returned to the Ranch aboard a KTM and was able to repeat the same feat in the Supermini 2 division, compiling 11-13-8 moto scores in order to finish in 9th place overall. After a year’s worth of experience in the Supermini classes, the Chilean native is more prepared than ever before to break into the top five at the Loretta Lynn Amateur National Championship. Garib had overall podium finishes at the Thor Winter Olympics towards the end of the 2019 season and he started the 2020 season by demonstrating undeniable speed at Spring A Ding Ding. The California resident proved he’s the real deal yet again at the Deseret Peak Midwest Youth Regional with a 1st place overall and 2nd place overall finish in Supermini 1 and Supermini 2, respectively, clinching his spot on the gate at Loretta’s. Although he’s competing in one of the most competitive classes year in and year out at the Ranch, Garib has shown that he’s got what it takes to run up front and he’ll undoubtedly be in contention for a top spot this year in Hurricane Mills.
How’d the Regionals go?
Very good. In Utah, I won the Supermini 2 class and finished 2nd place in Supermini 1. The weekend after that I went to the Regional at Fox Raceway where I won all my motos except one in all my classes but I pulled off on the white flag because I was already qualified.
What’s a typical day of training been like for you getting ready for Loretta’s?
I’ve been training really hard for Loretta’s and a typical day would be getting up early, go to the track, and after that go to the gym or road bike.
Do you have a pre-race routine?
I don’t have a pre-race routine. I just like to stretch, warm up my body and focus on the race.
How do you recover after a twenty-minute moto in the brutal heat and humidity?
As soon as I get to the motorhome I take all my gear off and go to the creek to freshen up, drink my GU supplements, and relax.
Is there one specific year at Loretta’s that stands out as the most memorable for you?
I have only been twice to Loretta’s as I lived in Chile and didn’t know the importance of this race but this year I am prepared as I should be and feeling better than ever!
What do you think is the key to success at the Ranch?
I think the key is to train as hard as you can, believe in yourself, and be with your family.