By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 31, 2025)
UPDATE- THE RESULTS IN: Ty takes 16th place
| 16 |  Ty Freehill |
15:46.351 |  Rescue, CA |
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. — A hometown favorite is making his professional motocross debut on one of the sport’s biggest stages this weekend.
Ty Freehill, 22, of El Dorado Hills, will compete in the 56th Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic on Saturday, June 1, at Prairie City State Vehicle Recreation Area in Rancho Cordova. The event, part of the Pro Motocross Championship series, draws top-tier athletes from around the world and is widely regarded as a proving ground for rising talent.
For Freehill, it’s the culmination of years spent riding and racing on local tracks and dreaming of one day joining the elite lineup.
“It’s a dream come true,” Freehill told the El Dorado County News Service on Friday. “I’ve been coming to Hangtown since I was a kid. To finally line up at the gate—it’s unreal.”
Freehill began riding at age six and has steadily climbed the ranks in the amateur circuit. He earned a qualifying spot at Hangtown after strong performances in regional events this spring, including a top-three finish at the Mammoth Qualifier and a solid showing in the NorCal MX series.
The Hangtown Classic, first held in 1968, is considered the oldest continuously run motocross race in the United States. Known for its punishing terrain, deep ruts, and intense summer heat, the track demands both technical precision and stamina.
“This is home turf,” Freehill said. “I know what to expect from this dirt, and I’m ready to leave it all out there.”
Race organizers expect more than 20,000 spectators to attend Saturday’s event. It will feature multiple classes, including 250cc and 450cc motos, with live coverage provided by NBC Sports and Peacock. For those attending in person, gates open at 8 a.m. with the first races starting around 11 a.m.
The local motocross community has rallied behind Freehill, viewing his debut as a significant milestone for foothill racing. “We’re incredibly proud of Ty,” said Randy Cross, owner of Hangtown MX Track and part of the Dirt Diggers North Motorcycle Club, which organizes the event. “He’s worked hard, trained hard, and earned his spot. This is just the beginning.”
Whether Freehill places on the podium or simply gains valuable experience, his participation represents a rare opportunity for El Dorado County fans to see one of their own on a national stage.
Tickets and Schedule
For information about race day schedules, ticketing, and parking at the Hangtown Motocross Classic, visit https://hangtownmx.com.
