In Case You Missed It: Cody Janssen Triumphs at Sunset Ridge for His 45th National Victory
(Walnut, Illinois. June 23, 2024) – Tucked away in the heart of America, Walnut, Illinois, is home to a hidden gem that has captivated Midwest motocross enthusiasts for years: Sunset Ridge. This unassuming town features one of the nation’s most renowned motocross facilities. For two decades, Sunset Ridge has been a cornerstone of the Midwest motocross community and a key stop on the ATV Motocross National Championship tour, holding deep significance for countless individuals, including four-time ATV Motocross National Champion Cody Janssen and his family.
Racing a limited schedule, every event Cody Janssen competes in holds special meaning, but none more so than the Illinois ATV National. Not only is it the closest national to his northeastern Wisconsin home, but it’s also where he earned his first national moto win nearly 18 years ago. Adding to its significance, just before last year’s event, Cody’s father, Joel Janssen, suffered a devastating stroke. This year, Joel returned to their favorite track, healthier than he’s been in years, making the weekend especially meaningful for the Janssen family.
Riding a wave of momentum after a victory in his season opener at Ironman, Cody Janssen’s second outing unfolded in a strikingly similar fashion. A rough start once again forced him to fight his way to the front (just as he did in Indiana), but by midway through the race, Janssen had surged from outside the top five to seize the lead, ultimately securing a nearly ten-second margin of victory in Saturday’s Moto 1. This dominant performance set the stage for Sunday’s Moto 2, where, after a much better start, Janssen took the lead within a few corners and never looked back, running lap times multiple seconds faster than anyone else on the track. His 1-1 victory in the 30+ A class showcased his dominance, and he also secured a strong second-place finish in the 25+ class, just behind fellow former pro Zack Kaczmarzyk.
“In July 2006, I won my first national event moto at Sunset Ridge. Nearly 18 years later, this past weekend, I added a couple more moto wins, securing the 45th national event overall victory of my career,” Janssen posted to his verified social media account. “I took first overall in 30+ A and finished second in 25+. I don’t know how many people get to keep living their childhood dreams at 32, but I’m grateful to be one of them. Thanks a million to everyone who continues to help make it possible!”
This special victory marked the 45th national overall win of Cody’s career. He extends heartfelt thanks to all the supporters who continue to back the four-time National Champion, beginning with the loyal listeners and partners of his Digging Deep ATVMX Podcast. A huge thank-you goes out to Yamaha Outdoors, Wienen Motorsports, PEP Performance Tuning, and Paul Turner for their tremendous support and guidance. Additional thanks go to SSI Decals, CST Tires, Valvoline, Elka Suspension, FMF Racing, and All Balls Racing Group—without the continued backing of these long-time supporters, none of this would be possible. Cody also expresses gratitude to his parents, his wife Brooke, mechanic Dan Binder, and the crew at Janssen Motorsports. Special thanks go to GPS Offroad Products, Hemauer Financial Group – Ameriprise Financial Services, E-Z UP Instant Shelters, Klink Equipment and Klink Hydraulics, Jay Gobel at Impact Solutions, Hinson Clutch Components, Thor MX, Parts Unlimited, D.I.D Chain, Atlas Brace, Cliff Cox, Precision Powder LLC, Bell Helmets, 100% Goggles, DT1 Filters, Larry Mills and DP Brakes, Rath Racing, Walsh RaceCraft, Fourwerx Carbon, Sunstar Sprockets, Works Connection, Renthal, Pro-Tec Racing, B.C.C. Skids, Evans Waterless Powersports Coolant, Blenders Eyewear, Rocket Machining and Design, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, producer Dallas Janssen, and many others. Finally, special thanks to Pat McGuire for graciously lending a trailer for the weekend. Without such incredible support, the continued pursuit of dreams and goals would not be possible.
