Landen Gordon Secures Victory at SMX Next – Motocross Scouting Moto Combine Amidst RedBud Events
BUCHANAN, Mich. – In a thrilling showcase at the RedBud National, Landen Gordon of Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green emerged victorious in the second round of the SMX Next – Motocross Scouting Moto Combine. The event took place on the eve of the Fourth of July and featured 26 elite amateur prospects.
Rider Coach Gareth Swanepoel, in his debut, guided Gordon to victory, earning the prestigious Coach’s Cup. The competition commenced with educational sessions for riders, focusing on training, nutrition, and media engagement.
In the first moto, Carson Wood from Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing secured the holeshot and led for much of the race. After experiencing a mid-moto drop in position, Gordon initially settled into fourth. A dramatic turn occurred when Wood crashed in the final laps, allowing Landon Gibson of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna to capitalize and take the moto win, followed closely by Deacon Denno (KTM Orange Brigade) and Kade Johnson (Altus Motorsports BLU CRU Yamaha), with Gordon finishing fourth.
The final moto saw a fierce start, with Gordon gaining the holeshot but experiencing a brief setback after a collision with Gibson. Despite early chaos that saw Denno crash out, Gibson surged ahead. However, with just two laps remaining, mechanical failure struck Gibson, handing Gordon the lead and ultimately the win by 3.1 seconds. Luke Fauser (Orange Brigade KTM) and Jesson Turner (Muc-Off/FXR/ClubMX Yamaha) rounded out the podium.
This event, part of a three-race series, highlights the promising talent emerging in the motocross community, underscoring the importance of technical skill, resilience, and strategic racing under pressure.
