2006 Top 10 Amateur MX Prospects

The Next Big Thing:

ATV Racing’s Ten Best Unknown MX Amateur Prospects

Silly season is upon us once again, and the Rider Support desks of just about every ATV company in the industry are just about ready to be filled. Unfortunately, not too many rider support reps are making it to the races these days, but fortunately for you Amateur ATV Racing is where we do our business, and scouting talent is what we do for a living. So if you’re looking for the riders that have got what it takes both on and off the track to put your company on the map, this is your list. There are tons of kids in the Amateur ranks that have already made a name for themselves, they’re not on this list, and they’re already on the radar. Here’s ten names you should look for if you want to get in on the next big thing before anyone else does.


Adrienne Cooper #14

Simi Valley, CA

Simi Valley’s Adrienne Cooper is an exclusive member of three totally different and equally rare groups in the ATV MX industry. For starters she’s a California native racing the Eastern based ATV MX series. Secondly, she’s not only gorgeous; she’s humble. Third of all, she’s fast enough to be a serious threat in the near future. Her family support system is top notch, her attitude is great, she’s fun to look at, and she’ll probably be toting a number one plate in 2007.

 

Nick Denoble #123

Denmark, WI

This virtually unknown amateur prospect has been putting in solid rides at the GNC MX Races. Denoble’s quiet, polite demeanor is contrasted by his “balls to the wall", take no prisoners riding style. Hailing from Wisconsin Nick’s #123 Honda TRX450R is the one to look for in the Amateur ranks.

 

Dane Heilman #07

Richland, IN

Although not quite a “Young Gun” anymore, Heilman is one of a handful of elder statesmen in the ATV Ranks that are giving the young bucks a run for their money. Heilman displays all the riding characteristics you would expect from a vet rider; Clean, precise, controlled aggression, and some characteristics that’ll surprise you like blistering speed and perfectly timed holeshotting ability.

 

Brian King #491

Grindstone, PA

Fast, aggressive, & stylish to boot; King’s fluorescent orange-framed ATV has been turning heads this season in both the 16-24 class, and the 4 Stroke A class. We’ve honestly never met this kid, but the fact that he sticks out makes him a hot commodity for 2007.


Richard Lindsay #5

Atco, NJ

Another kid who I’ve never met, yet his name stands out, Lindsay hails from the same Geographic area that produced Pat Brown, Travis Spader, The Sopranos, & Donald Lysinger. Like his New Jersey brethren, Lindsay only seems to know one speed; Wide Open. His performances in the Youth Production classes have caught lots of eyes. The fact that even his competitor’s parents seem to cheer for him speaks volumes.

 

Jeff Rastrelli #28

Palm City, FL


Florida’s Jeff Rastrelli has been a dominant force in the 90cc classes, one of only *two racers to beat Uber Racer Joel Hetrick in the 90cc Modified Class this season Jeff has made quite a reputation for himself.<br>

*The other racer to beat Joel this year was Indiana’s Jake Brattain.

 

Cole Sepesi #345

Milan, MI

Mini Michiganian racer Cole Sepesi isn’t exactly new to ATV Racing, even though age wise he’s not even in the double digits, the mild mannered seven year old has been racing for years. A frontrunner in the 50cc classes, Cole has the speed, and attitude to go far in this sport.

D.J. Spurling #36

Fredericksbugh, IN

Not quite unknown, just not too famous yet. The “Little Red Rocket” has been steadily moving up through the mini ranks while making a name for himself. DJ is unlike most racers his age in that he’s severely focused, articulate, and has a pretty clear view of the “Big Picture”. DJ’s riding style can best be described as precise, he precisely places his Suzuki powered 90cc Mod ATV right where he wants it, and he wants it out front.

*This is also AEM's choice for best up-and-comer in the future. Look for a full article soon.


Tommy Tantillo #112

Manorville, NY

Tommy may not have a twenty-year career ahead of him; as a matter of fact he’s closer to retiring than he is starting, yet he shows no sign of slowing down. Tantillo is the quintessential vet class racer, except that he’s usually one of the first racers on the track to huck a big jump. At 40+ years of age, Tommy is virtually fearless, and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Sure he’s older than most anyone he races with, but Tommy’s New Yorker attitude keeps him young.

 

Austin Wilson #808

Midlothian, TX


Austin is one of Texas's best kept secrets, ridiculous speed, awesome  
family support, freestyle skills, and a journalistic knack all  
combine to make him a hot commodity. Austin is a well mannered, and  
polite kid with all of the people skills, and promotional know how of  
a seasoned vet. Best of all, he's available and what we consider a  
"Sure Thing".

 

Other notables worth mentioning: Nathan Commer, Casey Martin, Aaron Meyer, Caleb Moore, Josh Upperman, Greg Gee, Mark Kendall, Cale Downen, & Russell Shumaker are the future of the Pro Am and Pro Classes. All have made their mark in the amateur ranks, and are the future of this sport.

It wouldn’t be fair to list one of these without listing the others. Joel Hetrick is already known as the mini prodigy that will one day hoist a Pro number one plate, the thing is, he’s spoken for as his parents owns the Hetrick Racing shop and race team. Racers like Brian Giles, & Lane Coile are also vets who represent well yet don’t seem to get the support they deserve, if you’re looking for a solid foundation for your team either one of these guys would be safe to build off of.

There are tons of racers in this sport who deserve a shot, unfortunately we can’t sponsor them all. If you’re looking for new blood to promote your products, consider this our free scouting report.
 
Jorge Cuartas
Jorge Cuartes is a staple in the motocross world and has years of racing experience. His background starts at the roots of the local motocross series in Georgia all the way to running the GNC series. In the past few years Jorge became the mastermind behind many great racing teams including the FMF Media All-Stars Team that was the backbone of support to Angela Moore the Woman's National Champion. Jorge is also the face behind the souvenir programs that you received at the GNC & GNCC events over the last few years.
 
 
 



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