Slaw Dog
Jordon Smith and Jarrett Frye have found a new home for the 2022 Monster Energy Supercross season. The duo will ride of the new-look Fire Power Honda Racing team, it was confirmed yesterday.
The outfit owned by Yarrive Konsky was previously known as Muc-Off Honda, which made its debut in America in 2020. The team also announced it will relocate from California to the Millsaps Training Facility (MTF) in Georgia.
Martin Davalos, who retired earlier this year from professional racing, will serve as team manager.
“I am pumped for this new chapter with Fire Power Honda Racing,” explained Davalos. “I was hoping an opportunity like this would come my way, as I know I have a lot to offer the team. I’m looking forward to managing the program in Georgia and to being involved in testing and development as well.
“The team has a championship-winning program in Australia and I believe in its direction in America for the 2022 season. Relocating the team to MTF will be a huge advantage, to get the most out of a program that wants to contend for championships. We have signed two riders and have a lot in place already.”
Jordon Smith has spent the last two years with Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki, but was sidelined for much of his time with the team as he dealt with injury both years.
Smith made his professional debut in 2015 and has claimed multiple podiums and three race wins. He biggest season came in 2018 with TLD where he finished second in the 250SX East Region standings.
“I am excited to be joining Fire Power Honda Racing next year,” Smith stated. “The team has shown promise the past two seasons and the changes they are making for next year show an unwavering commitment to succeeding.
“It’s going to be great next year, being in Georgia and at MTF will give us all the ability to be better prepared and I believe that will make a massive difference to our results. Martin is very meticulous and focused and will make us all accountable. I can see why he was so successful as a racer and it’s already translating into our preparation for next year.”
Frye made his pro debut with Monster Energy/Star Racing Yamaha at the 2020 Spring Creek National. His spent his first full pro season with the team in 2021, but was not re-signed for this year.
“This year proved challenging, racing and riding with injuries and feeling the pressure to race was hard. I knew I didn’t have a deal for 2022, so I persevered and did my best,” explained Frye.
“Being at MTF is great and Marty is unbelievable. There aren’t too many team managers in the pits that have his achievements. He knows what it takes, and he is working hard to build a solid program.”
The team will focus on the 250SX East Region, but selected Pro Motorcross races are also being considered. There is also the possibility of taking the US riders over to compete in the Australian Supercross Championship.
“We all know injuries hinder a riders’ full potential,” stated Konsky. “I have spoken to Jordon over the years and have always wanted to work with him. I believe in him because he applies the skills, desire, and commitment to racing. Jarrett was also at the top of our list. I studied his amateur career, pro results, and technique, and if he wants it bad enough, he is more than good enough. Finally, Martin’s experience and outlook are what we needed to give us the strength to be a winning program.
“Our current focus is the East Coast Supercross championship, but we haven’t ruled out racing two or three rounds of the motocross championship and bringing some or all of the riders, including Davalos, to race in the Australian Supercross Championship.”
Main image: Fire Power Honda
