Josh Toth, once a standout prospect for the formidable FMF KTM Factory off-road team, now independently rides with support from Enduro Engineering, achieved a historic feat on Sunday by clinching victory at the Specialized General, the third round of the 2024 Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, astride a Honda CRF250RX.
This remarkable triumph positions Toth as the first-ever rider to secure a GNCC overall win from the XC2 (250) class, commencing from the second row. This marks Toth’s inaugural GNCC overall victory in his career.
Reflecting on his achievement, Toth expressed his disbelief, stating, “It feels unreal, just a dream right now.” He credited his relentless determination, emphasizing that he maintained his focus and pursued his strategy throughout the race.
Toth expressed gratitude to the Enduro Engineering team for enabling him to pursue his own path and enjoy the experience. Drawing from his extensive experience in challenging enduro races, Toth asserted that this victory was just the beginning of his journey.
Toth’s victory comes on the heels of a setback in Florida, where a late-race incident thwarted his chances of securing victory in the XC2 class and an overall podium finish.
However, fueled by a desire for redemption, Toth elevated his performance on a muddy race track, which prompted organizers to shorten the race duration from three hours to two and a half hours. Leading the pack for the majority of the day, Toth showcased his resilience and determination.
Despite no longer competing full-time in GNCC races, having embarked on his independent racing program the previous year, Toth’s triumph underscores his versatility and skill. His plans for 2024 include participating in a diverse range of events, including the AMA Motocross at the High Point National in June, making his GNCC victory from the XC2 ranks a significant milestone in his career.
In a testament to his camaraderie with fellow racer Johnny Girroir, who currently occupies Toth’s former position on FMF KTM, Girroir graciously acknowledged Toth’s achievement despite his own aspirations for victory. The intense competition and challenging conditions characterized the race, with riders navigating treacherous terrain and exchanging positions throughout.
As the race unfolded, Jordan Ashburn of Coastal Racing, the 2022 GNCC Champion, secured third place overall and second in the XC1 class. Ashburn praised Toth’s performance, highlighting the technical challenges of the racecourse and acknowledging the significance of Toth’s overall victory.
Steward Baylor, who had been a contender for victory in previous rounds, narrowly missed the podium due to unforeseen obstacles during the race. Despite the setbacks, Baylor appreciated the thrill of competing in adverse conditions, albeit expressing a preference for longer races.
In the XC1 Open Pro category, the battle for supremacy ensued, with riders jostling for position throughout the race. Ultimately, Johnny Girroir clinched his third consecutive win in the class, while Toth’s time adjustments from the XC2 class propelled him to the overall victory.
In the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class, Jhak Walker secured his second consecutive win of the season, showcasing his dominance in the category. Notable performances also emerged in the amateur divisions, with riders demonstrating their skills across various classes.
Shelby Turner of Enduro Engineering/GASGAS/FXR Moto clinched her maiden victory in the WXC class, highlighting the competitive spirit and talent among female racers in the GNCC series.
Josh Toth’s historic triumph serves as a testament to his resilience, skill, and determination, underscoring his status as a formidable competitor in the GNCC series.
