He made his debut as a talented teenager at Ernee MXoN 2005 ( even holeshotting his first moto over Windham and Vuillemin) and , after the 2023 MXoN at the same venue, Martin Barr, with 17 appearances for team Ireland, has stepped down from duty.
The man who has led Ireland into the A final on many occasions leaves with a lifetime of memories from the biggest race in the world, said: “2023 done and dusted,not everything went to plan but enjoyed it and plenty of memories made along the way!
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“Thankful for the opportunities with my team, personal sponsors, family and friends and Team Ireland for the Motocross Of Nations, with that being said after 17 MXoN ( joined 2nd in all time history for the most as a rider ) where it started back in 2005 at 🇫🇷 Ernee for my 1st one fast forward to 2023 I’m going to close that chapter at the same track for my last one 🇫🇷
“It’s always been a pleasure and loved every single one,big thanks to all the team managers and teammates over the years for believing in me 👍 2024 is looking good and can’t wait to get started 🔴💪 Happy New Year Everyone”
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Barr will still be racing next year on Apico Honda but his MXoN career has come to a proud and hard fought end.
Well done Martin, you left it all on the track and were a great ambassador for the country putting Ireland on the global motocross map many times.
Article and images: Jonathan McCready