American WMX rider Lilly-Ann Pettus is set to make her FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship debut this weekend at Foxhill after making the trip across the Atlantic to compete in one of the most iconic venues on the calendar.
The talented youngster, who will celebrate her 18th birthday just before the event, will line up under the Dirt Store Triumph awning as she takes on some of the world’s best female motocross riders for the first time.
Speaking to GateDrop.com ahead of her debut, Pettus explained how the opportunity came together and why she couldn’t turn it down.
“I’ve always wanted the chance to race internationally, and once I connected with Triumph UK and the Dirt Store Triumph team, everything started to come together. When the opportunity came up to race Foxhill, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of”, Pettus told GateDrop.com.
Pettus has been following the WMX World Championship closely and knows the level of competition will be extremely high, but she’s eager to see where she stacks up against the established names in the series.
“Yes, I’ve followed the series and know how competitive it is. There are a lot of fast, talented riders, so I’m excited to see where I compare and challenge myself against some of the best. My main goal is to ride my best, learn as much as I can, and enjoy the experience. If I can put together solid motos I think I could be in the top set of girls”.
Having already spent some time in the UK, Pettus has been getting accustomed to the different style of circuits while settling into her new surroundings with the Dirt Store Triumph squad.
“It’s been an amazing experience so far. The tracks are definitely different from what I’m used to, but I’ve really enjoyed adapting to them. The Dirt Store Triumph team has been incredibly helpful and welcoming”.
The American also reflected on her domestic WMX campaign, describing it as a year of progression despite a few setbacks – she currently sits ninth in the standings.
“It’s been a season of learning and growth. There have been some really good moments along with a few tough weekends. I have been right outside the top 5 every week and an unfortunate DNF brought my overall down. Going into the next 3 round of USA WMX I will be more prepared with a better bike, I’m motivated to keep building and finish on the podium”.
While Foxhill marks her first appearance in the WMX World Championship, Pettus admits she would love to return in the future and potentially contest a full season if the opportunity presents itself.
“Definitely. love the opportunity to compete in more WMX World Championship events, or even a full season, if the opportunity is there. I’d like to thank my family, sponsors, Triumph UK, Triumph North America, the Dirt Store Triumph team, and everyone who’s supported me throughout my racing journey. None of this would be possible without them, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to represent them at Foxhill”, Pettus concluded.
With a new challenge ahead and valuable support from the Dirt Store Triumph team, Pettus will be hoping to make a strong first impression as she embarks on her WMX World Championship journey at Foxhill.
