In 2023, a once-dominant 125/250cc AMA Supercross and Motocross team faced a challenging season with injuries, crashes, and setbacks. They finally secured a win in the 11th hour. Will Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki bounce back in 2024?

It’s 6 p.m. at Ironman Raceway. Semi-trucks, sprinter vans, and rental cars are all leaving the pits just a few hours after the final checkered flag signified the end of the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross Championship. Meanwhile, the awning is still up at the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki truck, just as it has been all day. The 250 team—and Kawasaki brand—finally earned an overall win in the 11th hour with a career-best 1-1 day from Jo Shimoda. But Mitch Payton keeping the tent fully together until the day is over is a weekly occurrence, win or lose.

“Mitch doesn’t let them tear down the tent until the race day is over,” said former-pro-turned-mechanic Tony Archer. “He doesn’t want the riders to think he’s giving up on them.”