New York natives Justin Barcia (#51), Justin Cooper (32), and Nick Romano (#411). (Submitted Photo by Align Media)

NEW BERLIN – The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, the world’s most prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series, embarks on its landmark 50th anniversary season in 2022.

The ninth stop of its milestone journey in 2022 will be central New York’s Unadilla MX.

This iconic event is one of the sport’s oldest events, dating back to the origin of Pro Motocross in 1972. The 36th running of the Unadilla National will commence on Saturday, August 13.

While Unadilla’s presence in the early years of Pro Motocross was intermittent, it has served as a cornerstone of this prestigious championship since 1993, with 29 consecutive years of this summer spectacle in the rolling hills of the Unadilla Valley.

The role the track played in the sport’s infancy here in the states is undoubtedly one of the most significant aspects of Pro Motocross’ ascension into the world’s premier motocross championship, and Unadilla remains largely unchanged 50 years later under the helm of the second generation of the Robinson family that has overseen its success for the past five decades.

With its sprawling layout that undulates up and down the scenic countryside, relying heavily on the natural terrain to create a fast, yet highly demanding circuit, Unadilla’s track has always featured a more European flair.

It’s one of the reasons why it was one of the original championship venues and it remains a big part of why the track is so beloved by riders and fans alike. Unadilla is vintage motocross and even with the modern progression of both athletes and motorcycles, it remains as daunting and challenging as ever. A win at Unadilla is a bucket list item for any racer.

Monroe’s Justin Barcia has amassed a successful career as one of the most hard-nosed racers in motocross history. Nicknamed “Bam Bam,” his aggressive, all-out style can at times be controversial, but is always guaranteed to be exciting.

Additionally, a pair of Long Island natives are showing success in motocross can come from virtually anywhere. Cold Spring Harbor’s Justin Cooper has become one of the most consistent riders in the sport, with impressive speed and an uncanny knack for good starts. He’s been a fixture in the battle for the championship every year and continues his rise to the sport’s elite with each passing season.

On the other end of the spectrum, Bayside’s Nick Romano is just starting his professional career and is in the midst of a rookie season in which he’s established himself as a consistent contender for top-10 finishes.

The Unadilla MX begins with its opening ceremonies starting at 12:30 p.m. with the first motos at 1 p.m. and finishing with its second motos at 3 p.m. Admission is $55 for adults and $25 for children ages 6-11. Anyone interested in purchasing a pit pass between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. will pay $25.

-Information from Brandon Short of Next Level Sports

Full Schedule:

August 13, 2022

8:00am: Practice & Qualifying

12:30pm: Opening Ceremonies

1:00pm: First Motos (250 Class & 450 Class)

3:00pm: Second Motos (250 Class & 450 Class)

Ticket Info:

Saturday General Admission: $55 Adults / $25 Kids (ages 6-11)

Pit Pass (9am - 12pm) $25 (all ages)