The AMA U.S. Hard Enduro Championship: A Thrilling Season Kickoff
The AMA U.S. Hard Enduro Championship kicked off the 2026 season with a bang at the legendary King of the Motos event. This race is a true test of endurance and skill, featuring rocky canyons, sandy sections, and extreme downhill runs. The course, designed by Race Director Justin Leineweber, offered a unique challenge with new features created from familiar obstacles.
On Saturday, the weather was brisk but dry, setting the stage for an exciting race. The Pro Women and Amateur classes kicked things off with a thrilling start on the challenging 'Chocolate Thunder' section. Louise Forsley led the pack, showcasing her prowess as she navigated the mountain with precision.
Forsley, riding the IRC Tire Beta, aimed for the men's class, and she almost achieved her goal, finishing just four positions behind the top A-class riders. Makana Barger emerged as the winner in the A-class, battling fellow Hawaiian Boogie Rivera for the lead. Barger's strategy and quick reflexes proved decisive, as he edged out Rivera by a mere three seconds.
The Pro class faced a different challenge with the introduction of 'Super Fun Canyon'. This section required quick reflexes and precise navigation through stacked obstacles. Cody Webb, a six-time champion, narrowly missed the top spot, finishing just 8/10ths of a second behind the winner, Trystan Hart.
Hart, the 2025 champion, attributed his success to his thorough track walk and strategic sneaky lines. On Sunday, the sun's warmth melted the morning chill, and the race intensified. Trystan Hart dominated the first lap, flying through the holeshot with determination.
However, the track had its surprises, as Hart's shifter malfunctioned mid-course, causing a setback. Ryder Leblond, riding for Rockstar Energy Husqvarna, secured second place in a hard-fought battle. Leblond recalled the race, praising its speed and dust, and expressing satisfaction with his performance.
The A-class witnessed Makana Barger's strategic triumph once again. Barger's race strategy, including a well-executed block pass, secured his victory. The King of the Motos event also introduced two new Pro classes: 'E-Moto' and 'Pro Four-Stroke'.
Cody Webb, a six-time champion, led the 'Pro Four-Stroke' class, showcasing his expertise. The AMA National Hard Enduro season continues with the Ultimate Hawaiian Hard Enduro on February 20, 2026, bringing a fresh change of scenery to the competition.
For more information and full results, visit the official website: https://www.ushardenduro.com/
