ICYMI: Janssen Wins Ironman National After Last-to-First Comeback
(Crawfordsville, Indiana. May 5, 2024) Ironman Raceway is a premier facility in American motocross, known for hosting rounds of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship, the GNCC Series, and the ATVMX National Championship. Named after the late GNCC ATV Champion Bob "Ironman" Sloan, an Indiana native who envisioned a GNCC event in his home state, Ironman debuted in 1995 and quickly became a highlight of the GNCC tour. In 2014, it expanded to include professional motocross, followed by ATV Motocross the next year. Since then, Ironman has been the stage for countless memorable moments in ATV racing, with many more sure to come in the seasons ahead.
Racing an abbreviated schedule in recent seasons, four-time series champion Cody Janssen and his family eagerly anticipate the Ironman ATV National, the first Midwest event of the ATV National Circuit each spring. Chilly temperatures typical of the region greeted the world’s top ATV racers as Janssen arrived with limited seat time on his quad, but a lifetime of muscle memory would soon prove invaluable.
The weekend didn't start as smoothly as the Janssen crew had hoped. In Moto 1, Cody was caught in a first-corner pile-up, leaving him far behind the pack with two straightaways separating him from the leaders. However, it didn't take long for Janssen to begin an incredible comeback. He quickly started passing riders, breaking into the top ten by the end of the first lap. Lap after lap, the 32-year-old, racing on his birthday weekend, continued to gain ground.
By the time the white flag flew, Janssen had climbed to fourth place, with all three podium positions within reach. In an impressive final lap, he powered through a trio of riders already battling for position, going from fourth to first to claim an astonishing last-to-first victory in Moto 1 of the 30+ A Class. Janssen sealed his first win of the 2024 season with an overall victory on Sunday, making for a truly memorable birthday weekend.
“[I] can’t imagine a better way to spend my birthday than atop the podium at an ATV National!” Janssen posted to his official social media account. “Stoked to show up at Ironman after seven months off the quad and grab the win in 30+ A. Made it interesting for myself in one of the motos, starting from last after a first-turn incident, but managed to race my way up to take the win. Also snagged the runner-up spot behind Brett [Musick] in 25+, which was pretty awesome too! Being back at the races with my loved ones made the experience even more special. These memories are ones I’ll cherish forever. Huge thanks to everyone who continues to support me, to those who engage in Digging Deep and ATV Fantasy discussions at these events, and for all the birthday wishes. You guys are the best! Well, I guess this is growing up. Chapter 32.”
This victory marked the 44th National overall win of Cody's career. He extends his heartfelt thanks to all the supporters who continue to back the four-time National Champion, starting 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 his 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.
