AZOP RACING CINDER MOUNTAIN OFF-ROAD CHALLENGE

AZOP Racing Presents the Cinder Mountain Off-Road Challenge – August 10-11, 2024

Story by Kim Krause

Photos by Judd Neves “Nothing but Dirt” Racing Photography

The AZOP Racing series brought its high-octane excitement to the Cinder OHV area in Flagstaff, Arizona on August 10th and 11th, where over 500 racers competed across two action-packed days of Grand Prix racing. The Cinder OHV area, known for its unique volcanic cinder terrain, provided a challenging and thrilling backdrop for the weekend’s races. The weather was ideal, with temperatures in the mid-80s, making it perfect for both racers and spectators.

Racers and campers filled the area, with participants traveling from all corners of Arizona and neighboring states to take part in the event. Across the weekend, a total of 18 Grand Prix races—9 on each day—kept the energy high and the competition fierce.

Saturday saw a massive turnout for the bike races, with 120 bikes hitting the track, creating an intense and exhilarating atmosphere. Additionally, about 150 PeeWees, Minis, and UTV 170/250/570 racers combined took to the course over the weekend, adding to the excitement and showcasing the diversity of the competition.

The bike pro races were a highlight, with Zach Myer claiming the overall victories on both Saturday and Sunday, demonstrating his exceptional skill and consistency. In the Quad Pro class, Ian Kubik took the overall win on Saturday, while on Sunday, Andrew Simmons emerged victorious in the Vet Pro class, securing the overall win for the quads.

In the UTV Pro Open class, Travis Sessions took the overall win on Saturday, narrowly beating Ian Sessions by just 23 seconds. The tables turned on Sunday, with Ian Sessions taking the overall win, finishing about 18 seconds ahead of Travis Sessions. The close competition between the two added an extra layer of excitement to the weekend.

As the Cinders event wraps up, the racing community is already looking forward to the next stop in Page, AZ, on September 21-22. This upcoming event will feature a Grand Prix race and a Hare Scramble-style race, which offers a longer and more challenging course. As always, AZOP Racing promises another weekend of thrilling off-road competition that you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars and get ready for the next adventure! For more information go to www.azopracing.com