Canadian off-road legend Trystan Hart has had quite a year travelling the Globe and competing against top Hard Enduro riders like Manual Lettenbichler and Billy Bolt. However, Hart’s results have been on par with his talents, and heading into his hometown race this weekend in Alberta, he appears poised to take the biggest career win thus far. Last year, Hart finished in the runner-up position at the Red Bull Outliers event, and since then, he’s continued to make steady progress with his riding. Earlier this year, he finished on the podium in both the Red Bull Erzberg Rodeo and the Red Bull Romaniacs, and then this past weekend, he won the prestigious Red Bull Tennessee Knock-Out event. Trystan Hart is currently riding better than he ever has, and we caught up with him late last week as he was on his way to Nashville.
MXP: Hey Trystan, what is going on today?
TH: Not too much actually. I’m just on my way to Nashville for the Red Bull Tennessee Knock-Out event. It’s supposed to be a hot one this weekend, so this race will again be tough.
You had some great success in 2022 at this event. Do you feel a little extra confidence heading into the race this year?
For sure, I think anytime you go back to an event with you did well the year before you feel good about it. I’ve always enjoyed racing in the southern part of the USA, so this weekend should be fun.
Your travel demands have increased as you’ve climbed the ladder of success in recent years. Do you enjoy the process of travelling, or is it something you just tolerate?
Good question! I don’t mind it as it’s part of the job. When flights and everything run smoothly, it’s okay, but like everyone, it gets annoying when things go sideways. I just try and take things as they come.
Well, that is probably a good attitude to have when travelling. Last month, you were over in Romania at the Red Bull Romaniac’s event, and you ended up finishing on the podium. We saw some of your Social Media interviews during that grueling race, and it sounded like you really had to dig deep.
That was a tough event under normal circumstances as it’s always hot, and the terrain is very challenging. However, this year I made it even more difficult on myself because I crashed hard on one of the days. From there, it was tough, and I was fortunate to finish.
That does sound extremely challenging. But you finished and did a great job backing up your Red Bull Erzberg podium finish from earlier this summer.
Yes, we had a great race in Austria, and I’m glad we could hold on to a podium finish in Romania.
So you’re in Nashville this weekend, and then next weekend, you’re in Alberta for the Red Bull Outliers event. Generally speaking, do you enjoy this event?
For sure I do! I love the format and enjoy the course we’ll be racing on Sunday out in the Badlands. I’ve done well there in the past, so hopefully, I can have another good finish this year. Also, I don’t get to compete in front of my friends and family very often, so this event is always special.
Last year, you and Manuel Lettenbichler took the race right down to the finish. That had to be one of the most exciting races of your career so far.
That was a great race, and we provided the fans with a photo finish. Hopefully, this time it will be me taking the win instead (laughs).
We’re not sure if many people know this, but you got your start in motocross when you were really young. In fact, you’re a former Walton TransCan Champion in the 50cc 4-6 class.
Yes, back in 2004, I was doing well racing at home, so my family and I decided to drive to Walton Raceway to compete in the TransCan. I had a good week there and won the 50cc 4-6 class. That finish definitely made the long drive worth it.
Did you go back to the Walton TransCan after that and try for another title?
No, we didn’t go back. I ended up breaking my leg quite badly, and then I stepped away from riding for a few years. I didn’t ride again until I was 14.
That is a long time to take off of any sport. You must have missed riding quite a bit during those years.
Yes and no! I missed it a little, but I was busy playing other sports and doing other things.
Well, we’re glad you got back into riding, and as they say, the rest is history. Obviously, you’re summers and most of the fall season is spent racing at various events around the World. But where do you spend your winters?
I actually spend most of my off-season just outside of Victoria, BC. I love it there, and it’s easy to find places to ride and train. For the most part, the weather is okay, and I can ride the entire time I’m there.
That is cool! I’ve only been to Victoria in the summer, but it’s one of the nicest places in Canada. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us Trystan, especially while sitting in an airport. Good luck at the Red Bull Outliers, and we’ll all be cheering for you.
Thank-you Chris. It should be a great event, and I cannot wait to race in front of my Canadian fans.