Insights from Team Owner Richard Todd and Team Manager Tarvo Jürima
Dream Chasers Racing (DCR) has embarked on its first Supercross season, navigating the challenges and celebrating the milestones that come with building a new team. We sat down with Team Owner Richard Todd and Team Manager Tarvo Jürima to reflect on their journey so far.
Four rounds into your first Supercross season, how has the experience been? What challenges and highlights have stood out?
Richard: The experience has been amazing. Starting this venture, we anticipated challenges, particularly financial ones, as establishing a new team requires substantial resources. However, the support we’ve received and the dedication of our staff have far exceeded our expectations. A standout highlight was when Anton Nordström qualified directly into the night show; it was an emotional moment that validated our hard work.
Tarvo: These four rounds have been a rollercoaster. Initially, we faced challenges with rider alignments, leading to changes in our lineup. Securing riders like Wyatt Mattson and Anton Nordström was a significant relief. Anton’s direct qualification to the main event in Dallas was a monumental highlight, bringing tears of joy to the entire team.
Building a Supercross team from scratch is no small feat. What has surprised you most on this journey?
Richard: The most pleasant surprise has been the unity and camaraderie within the team. Everyone, from staff to riders’ families, has come together, forming a cohesive racing family.
Tarvo: The positive atmosphere has been remarkable. Despite the inherent challenges, our team operates like one big happy family, with everyone understanding and executing their roles perfectly.
How has the team evolved since the opening round in Anaheim?
Richard: We began with one rider but mutually parted ways after the second round. Since then, we’ve been fortunate to onboard dedicated riders like Wyatt Mattson and Anton Nordström.
How do you assess your riders’ performances so far? Have they met the initial expectations?
Richard: We’re very pleased with our current riders. They’re committed both on and off the track, maintaining positive attitudes and demonstrating strong work ethics.
Tarvo: The momentum truly picked up when Wyatt and Anton joined the team. Anton’s immediate qualification for the main event was impressive, and while Wyatt has come close, minor mistakes have kept him from securing a spot. Nonetheless, his progress is commendable.
What key lessons have the team and riders taken from these first four rounds?
Richard: After each round, we reassess to identify improvements and areas needing attention, ensuring continuous growth.
Tarvo: With each race, we gain more experience and better understand our financial dynamics, allowing us to make necessary adjustments.
Supercross is unpredictable. Have there been unexpected challenges requiring significant adjustments?
Richard: While we anticipated challenges, the primary ones have been growing pains, which we view positively as they indicate progress.
Tarvo: Close consultations with industry experts, like my friend Jim Holley, have been invaluable in navigating unforeseen challenges.
Have you adjusted training or bike setups based on early race learnings?
Richard: Our Team Manager, Tarvo, alongside our rider-mechanic Brian Medeiros, has been instrumental in adapting to various environments and rider needs, ensuring optimal bike performance.
Tarvo: We’ve acquired new bikes for Anton, with his 250F motor and suspension fully tuned by Race Tech. Wyatt has his own engine specialist, and his bike’s performance has been impressive. Training routines are tailored to each rider, and both have begun training together since Anton moved into our team’s house in Lake Elsinore.
What is the team’s focus for the upcoming rounds? Are there specific areas targeted for improvement?
Richard: Our focus is on continuous improvement and ensuring everyone becomes more comfortable in their roles, making this environment our new normal.
Tarvo: Our primary goal remains to progress through the night shows to the main events while avoiding injuries.
Anton Nordström recently joined DCR and made an immediate impact by qualifying for the main event. How did this opportunity arise, and why was he a good fit for the team?
Richard: Tarvo introduced Anton to us. During our interview, Anton’s champion mindset stood out, embodying the essence of a true dream chaser.
Tarvo: Through mutual connections, we connected with Anton. After a brief discussion, we realized he was the perfect fit, and his family’s support has been invaluable.
What expectations do you have for Anton moving forward, and how does he fit into DCR’s long-term plans?
Richard: We expect Anton to continue giving his best, and we’re confident he’s a champion in the making.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of running the team so far?
Richard: Witnessing the growth of relationships within the team, especially with Tarvo, our staff, and riders, has been incredibly rewarding.
Tarvo: Anton’s main event qualification in Dallas was a pinnacle moment, bringing immense pride to everyone involved.
In a few words, how would you describe DCR’s first Supercross season so far?
Richard: “Dream Chasing” encapsulates our journey perfectly.
Tarvo: It’s been a rollercoaster in the best possible way, working with a fantastic group of people. We extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors, fans, and supporters, including BET MOTO, JT Construction, O’Neal, Michaels Reno Motorsports, Yamaha, Rock River Yamaha, Yamaha of Simi Valley, MT Building Management, GUTS, FCP Factory Chassis Parts, Race Tech, Fast Wheels, BBL, Rabaconda, Pro Circuit, and Dunlop.
As Dream Chasers Racing continues its inaugural Supercross season, the team’s dedication and passion drive them forward, embodying the true spirit of dream chasers.
