SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1531575
Putting together the 11x H.E.R.O. team was a challenge for its leader Spinali. "When we first started the team, we didn't even have a motorcycle," he said. "We knew it wouldn't be easy going against more experienced riders who set the bar for the level of riding that we see today. It was a decision that we all made, however, to work together and learn from the mistakes we would inevitably make." "Our confidence grew after each race," said Salas. "Carter Klein and Cirian Naran had good riding experience, and we made mistakes throughout the season, but we didn't let that hold us back. At each race, we proved we could ride at the top levels as the current championship riders we were competing against. Although we were the 'underdogs' this season, we felt we were in our zone. Knowing we were all capable riders it was simply up to us to ride smart and we felt confident in our efforts." Their confidence led to first-place finishes at the SCORE San Felipe 250 and the SCORE Baja 500. As the 7x team of Justin Morgan got into their own groove, winning the SCORE Baja 400 and Baja 1000 races, Salas and the 11x team finished second but secured their place as the 2024 SCORE Pro Moto Unlimited Champions. Now that Salas and the H.E.R.O. team will have to work harder to retain the Championship, he knows what needs to be done to get them there for the 2025 Season. "Looking back, we know the mistakes we made, and we fixed those," he said. "But last season I was working full-time and it made it hard for me to train properly and be in better shape. Injuries kept me from being able to recover fully. Now I am dedicated to training full-time and focusing on defending the championship." According to Spinali, The H.E.R.O. team will continue to gather and make charitable donations to orphanages in Mexico during SCORE races. In addition, the riders will include Salas Jr., Cirian Naran, and their newest member Shane Logan. SJ SCORE JOURNAL 34 ARTURO SALAS JR. 2024 CHAMPION