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!
“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”
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