Words from AEO Powersports – Imaged by Michael Lindsay/Vital MX
The AEO Powersports KTM Racing Team continued its 2026 AMA Pro Motocross Championship campaign this past weekend at Round 2 of the series, the iconic Hangtown Motocross Classic, where Carson Mumford showcased impressive speed and determination while teammate Avery Long continued gaining valuable experience and confidence in the early stages of the outdoor season.
Mumford entered the weekend carrying momentum from the opening round and once again demonstrated his pace by qualifying eighth while Long continues to adapt to the demands of professional motocross competition, qualified 31st as he works to build race fitness, pace, and confidence throughout the opening rounds.
Moto 1:
Mumford faced adversity early after crossing the opening lap in 20th position. He quickly went to work, making smart and calculated passes throughout the field. By the end of the opening lap, he had already climbed to 11th and broke into the top 10 on Lap 2. Mumford continued charging forward and briefly moved into seventh place, where he settled into a strong rhythm. Unfortunately, after running out of tear-offs late in the moto, visibility became a challenge and forced him to back off his pace. He ultimately crossed the finish line in eighth place.
Long also endured a difficult start in Moto 1, beginning the race in 28th position. He steadily worked his way through the field, advancing as high as 23rd during the moto before taking the checkered flag in 26th.
Moto 2:
Moto 2 began much more favorably for Mumford, who crossed the holeshot line in 10th and immediately put his speed on display. Charging through the field, he advanced to fifth by Lap 3 and maintained the position for five laps while battling inside the lead group. A pair of off-track excursions later in the race tightened him up physically, forcing a more cautious approach through the closing stages. Despite the setback, Mumford fought through to secure an 11th-place finish.
For Long, Moto 2 presented another challenge after he became caught in a first-turn pileup and completed the opening lap in 33rd position. With significant time lost early, making up ground proved difficult, but Long continued pushing forward throughout the moto. His persistence paid off as he gained 12 positions and finished 21st at the checkered flag.
The AEO Powersports KTM Racing Team now turns its attention to Round 3 of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship, focused on building upon the positives from Hangtown and continuing its upward trajectory throughout the summer.
Results
Carson Mumford – 9th
Race Result: 8 | 11
Points Standing: 9th
Avery Long – 27th
Race Result: 26 | 21
Points Standing: 29th
