Yumena Berning Joins Cobra Elite Team, Making History in Motocross
HILLSDALE, Mich.— Cobra MOTO announced today the signing of 10-year-old Yumena Berning from Pleasanton, California, to its prestigious Elite Team program. This move follows Berning’s exceptional 2025 season, where she made history as the first female to reach the overall podium in the open class at the Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, securing second place in the 65cc (7-9) Limited division.
Berning’s recent accomplishments also include notable finishes at the Loretta Lynn’s Ranch and the World Mini Grand Prix. She clinched second overall at Loretta Lynn’s in the 65cc (7-9) Limited class and first at the Southwest Regional event. In total, she achieved multiple podiums at the World Mini Grand Prix, including second place in the 65cc (7-9) class.
Cobra’s Elite Team Manager, Clay Elliott, praised Berning’s performance, stating, “Yumena showed maturity, speed, and consistency all season. She fits our culture and brings the kind of potential we love to develop.”
Berning’s racing journey began in earnest in 2022 with a victory at the JS7 Spring Championship in the 51cc (4-6) class, a defining moment acknowledged by her family. She will continue to compete mainly in the 65cc (7-9) and 65cc (7-9) Limited classes, along with girls’ classes when available. Her upcoming schedule includes prominent events such as Mini O’s in Florida, the TX Winter Series, and various regional qualifiers.
Berning’s goals remain focused on race victories and skill enhancement through the support of the Cobra Elite Team, underscoring her commitment to evolving women’s representation in motocross.
Summary
- New Signing: Yumena Berning joins Cobra Elite Team.
- Historic Achievement: First female on overall podium in open class at Loretta Lynn’s.
- 2025 Highlights: Multiple podium finishes, including second overall at Loretta Lynn’s and victories at regional events.
- Support Structure: Focus on skill development and race wins within Cobra’s framework.
This strategic signing marks a significant development in the amateur motocross scene, as Berning not only shines individually but also contributes to advancing opportunities for female racers in the sport.

