Slaw Dog
Well, this is a bit of shocking news: Martin Davalos has announced his retirement from professional racing.
On social media last night, the 34-year-old said he suffered a crash during press day at Salt Lake City 1 on Friday that resulted in a broken collarbone and concussion and that he is hanging up the boots.
The native of Ecuador said his intention was to retire following the season finale next weekend, but the injury has forced him to call it quits now.
Here it is guys. I am sitting here with my eyes tearing up thinking about how amazing my career has been…how I came to the states when I was 15 years old— alone and as a nobody from such a small country. I left my family behind to do what I loved the most which was to race my motorcycle. I am so grateful that my family sacrificed so much to help my dream come true. And I am proud of all I’ve achieved. With that being said, I have decided it is time for me to hang my boots up and step away from racing. My plan was to retire after the last round but unfortunately during press day today I had a crash that caused a broken collarbone and concussion. This career has been full of highs and lows, but I have accomplished things I never thought or dreamed of doing and I’m so thankful to the Lord for allowing me to do so.
Davalos’ career began in 2006 and he’s ridden for a number of factory teams including Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna. He won five times in the 250SX class during his career.
Last year, he finally got the chance to move to the 450 Class with Monster Energy/Lucas Oil Team Tedder KTM and scored AMA 450SX Rookie of the Year honors. His best result was a fifth last year in Atlanta.
Congrats on a great career, Marty. But damn, it sucks it had to end this way.
Main image: Octopi Media
