Words and images courtesy Edward Heather – @edward_heather
The Daytona Supercross is one of the most prestigious races in the sport, and British Arenacross rider Matt Bayliss has been given the opportunity to line up at the iconic Daytona International Speedway this coming weekend.
Bayliss has had a successful UK Arenacross campaign racing for the SC Sportshome Husqvarna team, putting in some solid rides on his 350cc machine and finishing 5th in the championship. This weekend, he will line up aboard a KTM 350 SX-F in the 450 class, with his primary goal being to qualify for the night show.
As he makes his way to the World Center of Racing, I caught up with Matt to discuss how this opportunity came about and what it’s been like living the American dream.
EH: Matt, a switch up from the usual working week, stateside preparing to race the Daytona SX this weekend. It must be a surreal feeling, how did it all come about?
Matt Bayliss: “Yeah, this week is not the normal week! I was messaged by Micky Carter a few weeks ago [to race Daytona], so I had to take the chance and give it a go. I’m feeling pretty good as the Arenacross series went well for me and I will be on the 350 still.”
The UK moto scene is a much smaller then the US, and Matt has been making the most of the facilities and weather stateside.
EH: I see you have been at the GOAT farm, how has that been? Have you managed to get some riding in at the farm?
Matt Bayliss: “Unfortunately I didn’t get to ride at the GOAT farm, but we got a tour of the facility. I can say it is unreal what they have compared to anywhere in the UK!”
EH: Daytona is an iconic race, what’s your expectations/ hopes heading into this weekend?
Matt Bayliss: “If I can qualify for the night show, I will be over the moon! So, I am just seeing how the day time goes and going from there.”
EH: Lastly, have you got any further plans to get back out to America to race this year?
Matt Bayliss: “No, I don’t plan to make anymore trips this year, so, I will just enjoy this as a mini dream trip in the sun!”
Like many UK riders, racing isn’t Matt’s primary focus. He juggles running his own company alongside racing on the weekend, so it is great to see a British rider living out one of their dreams, racing in an AMA Supercross event! Keep an eye out for the #150 this weekend.
This wouldn’t have been possible without some friends and sponsors who have helped him out.
Micky Carter – @micky_carter
Shocktech Suspension – @shocktech_suspension
Ride Clothing – @we.are.ride
Images courtesy of @mantispromedia
By Edward Heather – @edward_heather
