We met up with the team at the Legends MX track for a few laps and lots of bench racing. These guys are on a mission this year and assure us that you can look out for a few red plates at the end of the season… They have a great line up of riders for the 2023 season.
Yamaha MX Team Launch
Jesse Wright: YZ 450F
Team Stalwart Jesse Wright raced for out of Africa years ago and sadly injured himself and stepped away from MX for a few years. Coming back in, he was offered a test by team principal Guy Henley, the rest is history. He’s back in action for 2023 in the premier 450 class.
Dirko VD Westhuisen: YZ450F
Dirko VD Westhuisen came back from a six year stint, racing in the USA. He took a short break and then approached Yamaha about a ride. Last year he worked his way steadily up the ranks. He brings a world of experience to the Out Of Africa outfit.
Dalton Venter: YZ250F
“We had an amazing off season riding Tezza and surfing and now it’s time to race. I’m fully recovered from my knee injury, with a solid third for last year. So looking forward to the 2023 season!”
Garrick Henley: YZ250F
Moves up to a 250 for the 2023 season. He had a solid season I ’22 a rough start but a solid 3 out of four moto wins at the end of the regional series. He spent time in the States at the end of the year and is raring to go. “This years a big learning year for me. Matric and a 250 four stroke… We’ll see what we can do.”
125 class – Thor Johnson: YZ125
“I’m ready for ’23 – last year was my first year on the 125 and I had a solid year. This year we aim at podiums in the nationals and the regionals…”
Aiden Henley: YZ85
“I crashed at the beginning of last year and bent my collar bone, and took the fight back towards the end of the year with a few podiums. I’m looking forward to mixing it up out there.”
Guy Henley Team Principal:
Out of Africa, Monster Energy is looking strong and well for the 2023 season. It’s all about developing riders and giving back to the sport that we love. Here’s to a great season! Watch this space!”
