Imagine transforming a sunny beach into a dirt-filled, high-octane race arena—sounds crazy, right? But that’s exactly what happened when AMA Arenacross teamed up with the Moto Beach Classic for an unforgettable kickoff in Surf City USA. And let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular. Here’s the scoop: the organizers at Moto Beach Classic decided to dump truckloads of dirt onto the iconic sands of Huntington Beach, California, and construct a full-fledged Arenacross track. The result? A jaw-dropping, adrenaline-fueled spectacle that left everyone in awe. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing—this wasn’t just any race; it was a free, one-day moto extravaganza that blended the thrill of Arenacross with the laid-back vibes of beach culture. Thousands of spectators in bikinis and board shorts lined the boardwalk, witnessing bikes battle bar-to-bar just steps from the Pacific Ocean. It was sun, sand, and full-throttle action—a combination that’s hard to beat.
And this is the part most people miss: The Moto Beach Classic has always been a celebration of two-wheel culture, featuring everything from Hooligan flat track races to custom bike showcases, demo rides, live music, and a bustling vendor scene. But this year, AMA Arenacross took it to the next level, turning the beach into a chaotic playground of whoops, rhythm sections, and heart-stopping racing. The weather was perfect, the energy was electric, and the racing? It was pure madness—tight, technical, and just sketchy enough to keep riders on their toes. Every lap felt like a high-stakes brawl, and the crowd couldn’t get enough.
Now, let’s talk about the riders. But here’s where it gets controversial: With veterans like Ryan Breece and Austin Politelli of Smartop MotoConcepts Racing going head-to-head, and newcomers like Justin Starling making the leap from Monster Energy AMA Supercross to Arenacross, the competition was fierce. Starling, in particular, raised eyebrows with his bold move, stating, ‘I’ve accomplished so much, and it’s time for a new adventure.’ But is this transition a smart career choice, or a risky gamble? Let’s not forget Team Solitaire/Heartbeat Hot Sauce Yamaha’s Robbie Wageman and Cole Thompson, who proved they’re forces to be reckoned with. Wageman, fresh off an injury, dominated qualifying, while Thompson stole the show in the second main event, snatching victory from Breece in the final corner. The crowd erupted—it was pure magic.
Another point of contention: Brandon Ray, the privateer from The Privateer Paddock, turned heads on his Whiskey Throttle Media Triumph. After making his first supercross main event last year, Ray’s momentum is undeniable. But can he sustain this pace, or is he just a flash in the pan? The debate is on.
Here’s how the day shook out in the results:
| Rider | Moto 1 | Moto 2 | Overall |
|---------------------------|--------|--------|---------|
| Ryan Breece | 1st | 2nd | 1st |
| Cole Thompson | 3rd | 1st | 2nd |
| Robbie Wageman | 2nd | 4th | 3rd |
| Brandon Ray | 6th | 3rd | 4th |
| Jeremy Fappani | 5th | 5th | 5th |
So, was this beachside Arenacross experiment a stroke of genius or a one-time novelty? The AMA Arenacross x Moto Beach Classic mashup proved that sometimes the wildest ideas yield the most unforgettable experiences. Salty dirt, ocean breezes, and edge-of-your-seat racing—it was a recipe for success. If this was just the opening round, imagine what the rest of the 2025 AMA Arenacross season has in store. Buckle up, because this is going to be one for the books.
Thought-provoking question for you: Is beachside Arenacross the future of moto events, or is it a gimmick that won’t stand the test of time? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!**
