GNCC Racing: Let’s go back to the beginning. What was your first ATV? When did you first start racing? When and where was your first GNCC?

Aiden Jones: My first ATV was a Honda 400EX for a short period of time, raced a handful of locals on that, and then started really racing and raced my first GNCC shortly after, for my first time on a Honda TRX450R at Big Buck in 2022.  

So far this season, you’ve earned three wins in the Junior A class. How do you feel about your results and overall performance?

I feel awesome going into the season, getting 3 wins so early, and charging towards more overall goals of mine. 

When you’re leading a race, what’s going through your mind to stay focused and finish it out?

I am personally trying to stay as smooth as possible to minimize mistakes when I get out front. It is also super important to stay calm and not overthink when out front, which leads a lot of the time to arm pump, mistakes, and bad line choice that can throw your lead away in an instant.  

The Junior A class is super competitive. How are you staying consistent against that level of competition?

 I am staying competitive in the class by working very hard outside of the race weekends. I train very hard in my practice sessions and physical training, so then on race day, it is considered an easy day for me. I have a strict schedule and eating plan for myself that I try to stick to and stay consistent with as well 

What’s your favorite part about lining up on race day?

My favorite part about lining up is getting those nerves when the national anthem comes on, and Ricky is waving the 1-minute flag. A different feeling turns on in my brain and puts me in go mode.

Is there a certain GNCC track or type of terrain that suits you best? Which one stands out and why?

My personal favorite track has to be Big Buck or Camp Coker. The red clay and sand, as well as tracks with a ton of roots, are my specialty. I love the way those tracks are ran and especially how the tracks develop over the course of the race. They get super rough and choppy, which I feel is when I surpass my fellow racers

What’s been the biggest challenge for you so far this season, even with the wins?

 My biggest challenge this season has definitely been the mental aspect of the game. Keeping myself in a great mental attitude is more important than any other training or skills. Definitely something I need to work on a little more 

What’s a typical training session look like for you off the ATV? And in that same breath, what does seat time and training look like for you on the ATV?  

 A typical training session off the ATV consists of the gym with physical exercise for long periods of time, thanks to my man Levi at Outlier Performance, as well as mixing in my own types of training. Seat time and training on the ATV consist of long periods of time motos, as well as making sure I have days to work on technique and technical skills such as log jumps, sketchy hill climbs, etc.

Long term, where do you see yourself progressing within GNCC Racing?

 I see myself to keep progressing the way I am now. I went from not knowing a thing and couldn’t even start an ATV less than 4 years ago, and am now running in the top amateur spots in the country. I plan on making my XC2 Pro Am debut very soon and trying to run with the big dogs.  

What are some of your hobbies outside of racing?

My hobbies outside of racing consist of hanging out with friends, going to the gym, and just enjoying every moment to the absolute fullest.