MotorActionMedia.com had the chance of going behind the scenes with The Privateer Journey race team at the St. Louis round of Monster Energy Supercross.
Every winner, champion, and hot-shot Pro racer was once just a privateer. Even then, they had the drive, dedication, and passion of a champion — they just didn’t always have the resources to back them up. Ted Parks, the owner of The Privateer Journey race team knows that all too well. TPJ is all about rooting for and supporting the underdog — those riders who have the raw talent and skill — and boost them on the upper cusp of racing, in hopes to help them on their way to a factory ride. By providing factory-style support to a hand-selected group of riders, TPJ is a one of a kind gig.
Loyalty is the foundation of TPJ, and riders are carefully hand-picked by the TPJ staff after submitting a resume. They’re always one of the biggest set ups at the race (supporting more than ten riders) — a massive line up of tents, packed with bikes, banners and excited, smiling faces — not only are they one of the biggest, they are one of the most welcoming to the fans. With the sponsored-backing of some of the biggest names in the industry like Fly Racing, WPS, Suzuki, Motorcycle Superstore & more, TPJ has been crucial in helping riders on their journey to factory-level racing. Their riders are decked out in the coolest Fly Racing gear (from head to toe), and their pits operate just like that of the top tier teams. For team composed of privateers, they run just like a finely-tuned factory team.
As the Monster Energy Supercross season comes to a close, TPJ will only pause for a moment before rallying up again for Lucas Oil Motocross. For more information on The Privateer Journey racing team, check out their website by clicking here.