2024 BEST IN THE DESERT CHAMPIONS CROWNED
| This extraordinary season was a showcase of excellence, with Can-Am Racers leading the charge as champions in every category. Amid relentless challenges and fierce rivalries, each team demonstrated remarkable determination and grit, rising to the occasion time and time again. Through hard work and an unyielding drive to succeed, they achieved their ultimate goal of becoming champions.
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| Can-Am racer Dustin “Battle-Axe” Jones approached the 2024 season with unwavering determination and a relentless work ethic that embodied his approach to every challenge. Known for his fearless attitude and resilience, Dustin faced obstacles head-on, giving his all to overcome them. After ten years and the last two years of close calls in previous Best in the Desert (BITD) seasons, his dedication finally paid off, and he proudly claimed the BITD Pro Turbo Championship at the season’s end.
Throughout his career, Jones has consistently proven that hard work and perseverance lead to greatness. At the 2023 Silver State 300, he made history as the first UTV to overall the field at a BITD Race Event, triumphing over Trick Trucks, Class 6100s, and Motorcycles alike. Arriving three minutes ahead of his closest competitor, his unmatched skill and driving abilities solidified the Can-Am Maverick R’s position as a transformative force in the UTV world. This landmark victory marked the beginning of a winning streak that continued into 2024, where at the 2024 Silver State 300, he claimed 1st Place in the Pro Turbo class once again. As the 2024 season came to a dramatic conclusion at the Laughlin Desert Classic, all eyes were on the championship showdown between Dustin and fellow Can-Am driver Mitchell Alsup. In this high-stakes race, unforeseen circumstances took Alsup out of contention, clearing Dustin’s path to securing the championship title. Jones’ 2024 season highlighted his grit and courage as a champion. His resilience, determination, and “never back down” attitude enabled his ascent, proving that no obstacle is insurmountable. Beyond his racing accomplishments, Dustin is a visionary leader as the owner of S3 PowerSports, demonstrating the same passion and tenacity in business as he does on the track. Congratulations to Dustin “Battle-Axe” Jones on his well-earned victory! As BITD’s UTV Pro Turbo champion, he has set the stage for an exciting 2025 season. We eagerly anticipate his defense of the T1 plate and look forward to his continued inspiration for racers everywhere. Sponsors: |
| Josh Row, a seasoned racer with a diverse career that has included motorcycles, quads & UTVs, has achieved remarkable success by securing the Best In The Desert 2024 UTV Pro Open Championship. With his skilled co-driver, Preston Axford, this dynamic duo has earned respect and admiration both on and off the racecourse. Their relentless determination and unwavering dedication propels them to conquer every challenge, pushing their limits mile after mile.
The 2024 season started at the Golden State 250. Row dominated the competition, grabbing the overall UTV victory with an impressive 23-minute lead over his nearest rival. This commanding performance set the stage for the season: Row’s meticulous preparation, sharp racing instincts, and unyielding drive. However, racing rarely comes without challenges, and a less-than-ideal finish at the Silver State 300 tested their resilience. Rather than falter, Row and Axford used the experience as fuel to come back stronger. Their resolve was on display during the 2024 Vegas to Reno, the longest single-day off-road race in the United States. The duo faced a grueling 555-mile course that pushed man and machine to their absolute limits. From punishing desert terrain to treacherous mountain passes and unforgiving lakebeds, they battled extreme heat, mechanical strain, and relentless competition. In a nail-biting finish, Row secured the UTV Overall victory by a mere 51 seconds, proving that grit and precision are as vital as speed in off-road racing. This championship season is a testament to the duo’s grit, precision, and the exceptional performance of their Can-Am Maverick R. As the 2024 UTV Pro Open Champions, Josh Row and Preston Axford have set a new standard for excellence in off-road racing. Congratulations on an incredible season! We eagerly anticipate their efforts to defend the H1 plate and inspire the racing community with their unwavering drive and passion for the sport. Sponsors:
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| Can-Am driver Todd Zuccone of Evolution Powersports is no stranger to challenges. After finishing third in the 2023 UTV Super Stock Class, Zuccone entered the 2024 season with a relentless drive to win. With three first-place finishes in his class, he persevered throughout the season to emerge victorious as the 2024 UTV Super Stock Champion.
The journey began in California’s Golden State at Cal City, where Todd dominated the competition and claimed his first win of the season. Piloting his Can-Am X3, he remained competitive and resilient throughout the grueling season. Todd faced a challenging field at the prestigious 2024 Vegas to Reno race, including formidable rivals like Derrick Luttrell and his son, Jacob Zuccone. Despite the unforgiving Nevada desert and fierce competition, Todd secured a hard-fought first-place finish. The season culminated at the Laughlin Desert Classic, where Todd was poised to clinch the championship. However, the race was far from over. After holding third place for several laps, a series of skillful maneuvers allowed him to move into second, right behind his son Jacob. In a dramatic turn, Jacob experienced a mechanical failure, enabling Todd to make a crucial pass and secure his third first-place finish in the UTV Super Stock Class. This championship season was not without its challenges. Todd and his team faced every obstacle the off-road world could present, overcoming each with determination and grit. Congratulations to Todd Zuccone and his incredible team on a well-deserved championship. We eagerly look forward to seeing them defend their title and the top spot in 2025! Sponsors: |
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