Words and images from AEO KTM Racing Team
The AEO Powersports KTM Racing Team rolled into Denver with clear goals, and they walked away from Round 16 checking off an important one: all three riders—Lux Turner, Avery Long, and rookie CJ Bernard—qualified for the 250SX Main Event. On a slick, dusty, and one-lined track that challenged consistency and racecraft, the team left Denver without the results they ultimately wanted but with their eyes set on finishing off the season on a high note.
QUALIFYING:
The AEO boys were tightly bunched in qualifying, locking down positions 19th (Lux), 20th (Avery), and 21st (CJ). It was a solid group effort and a sign of the close pace between all three teammates heading into the night show.
HEAT 1:
Lux lined up in Heat 1 and unfortunately went down early, coming around the first lap in 15th. Refusing to let the crash define his race, he charged forward to finish 10th—just one spot shy of a direct transfer to the Main. His effort and determination kept his night alive as he headed to the LCQ.
HEAT 2:
Avery Long entered Heat 2 with a mission. Starting in 12th, he needed to gain at least three spots to earn a Main Event transfer position and avoid the LCQ. Staying focused and steady, Avery pulled off a much needed last-lap pass to finish 8th and secure a direct transfer and secured a better gate pick for the main. CJ Bernard, continuing to learn and grow in his rookie debut, had a rough start off the gate and sat 18th after lap one. Undeterred, he worked his way forward to 13th, showing progress but ultimately missing the cutoff for a direct transfer.
LCQ:
The LCQ turned into a showcase for the AEO KTM crew. CJ Bernard launched out front with a holeshot and led the opening laps with Lux Turner right behind in P.2. On lap 5, Lux made the pass on CJ and took over the lead, with CJ settling into a comfortable 2nd. Both riders successfully transferred to the Main Event, with the team going 1-2 in the LCQ—an impressive group performance.
Main Event:
Lux Turner started 18th and made a mid-race push up to 14th, but the physically demanding track took its toll, and he slipped back to finish 20th. CJ Bernard struggled off the line again and never quite found his rhythm on the tricky Denver circuit. Still, making the Main Event marked a big step for the late-season addition to the team. Avery Long had the best Main start of the group, getting off the gate and going into the first turn around 7th and crossing the first lap in 9th. A few mistakes and some lost time while getting lapped caused him to drop to 14th midway through the race. However, he showed great late-race pace and made a last-lap pass to finish 13th.
Looking Ahead: Salt Lake City – The Finale
The AEO KTM team now shifts focus to Salt Lake City, where the final round of the 2025 Supercross Season will bring the East and West regions together for one last showdown. With solid momentum and all three riders gaining experience and confidence, the team looks to end the season on a high note.
OVERALL POINTS STANDING:
Lux Turner
Race Results: 20th
Overall Points Standing: 10th
Avery Long
Race Results: 13th
Overall Points Standing: 20th
CJ Bernard
Race Results: 21st
Overall Points Standing: N/A
