GEICO Powersports Honda Rider, Trey Canard, Wraps up 250cc Title

September 13, 2010, 11:11am

After a close fought season, Geico Powersports Honda rider, Trey Canard just couldn't hold in the emotions any longer. The unflappable Oklahoman had just wrapped up the season title in the 250cc class of the Lucas Oil AMA Motorcross Championship on Saturday at the Pala National. It was the culmination of three years ups and downs, and Canard became choked up while thanking everyone who had made his championship possible.

"There are so many emotions going through my head right now," Canard said. "It's unbelievable, and I'm thankful for every opportunity that's taken place. It's been a lifelong goal and a lifelong dream. It's weird, all those experiences and all those tough times come to you. I try to be a humble guy, and attack each race and use it for what it's worth."

Canard trailed Christophe Pourcel by seven points in the championship standings to start the day. Both riders started the first moto strong, but Pourcel suffered a nasty crash, separating his shoulder. Pourcel had a DNF in the first moto and couldn't answer the call in the second. Canard’s third overall on the day sealed the title for the Geico Powersports Honda team.

"I might need a couple of days to get my real reaction," Canard said as he gripped his No. 1 plate. "This team is getting so awesome. I'm bummed that this is my last ride for these guys. To be a part of this with the GEICO Powersports Honda guys is fantastic. They've worked year in and year out to reach this level."

Canard finished the season with 474 points. Tyla Rattray ultimately finished second with 446 points and Pourcel third with 443 points. Next year, Canard will ride for GEICO Powersports Honda's sister team, Red Bull Honda.

Also on Saturday, GEICO Powersports' 450cc rider, Brett Metcalfe, wrapped up second place in the season 450 standings with a third overall finish at Pala Raceway. Canard and Metcalfe helped to put a bow on the most outdoor successful season in GEICO Powersports Honda history.

"You can't say we didn't have a great season," said GEICO Powersports Honda team manager Mike LaRocco. "To win a championship and get second in 450s, it's just awesome."

Riding isn't over for the year for Canard and Metcalfe. Canard will represent the USA and Metcalfe, for Australia, in next week's Motocross of Nations, Sept. 24-25 from Thunder Valley outside Denver.