Toth wins first World Championship
Medicine Hat’s Riley Toth is a world champion.
After running away with the Medicine Hat Drag Race Association’s Pro Bike category, Toth travelled to Woodburn, Ore., where he won his heat to compete for the World Championship in Pomona, Calif.
“I was extremely confident going in,” he said. “Obviously you never know what’s going to happen, and I wasn’t able to use my bike, but I was confident in my abilities, as I always am, and I took that confidence into the races.”
Due to rules at the World Championships, Toth was unable to use his bike but was able to use his brother’s.
“I rode my bike all year except for the final week at home and the races in California, for those I had to ride Zach’s bike” he said. “They don’t allow the pro tree down there; it’s all sportsman tree and delay boxes. It was tough for the first couple runs but the more time on it I had, the more comfortable I got on it.”
Toth had to win three rounds before claiming the top prize, and he said once he got rolling, he couldn’t stop.
“There was a lot of excitement there, there was a lot of emotion. The races were really good, I was able to have some really good races,” he said. “I had some family and some friends there with me, so it was a bit emotional. But it was great to celebrate with a bunch of people close to me.”
Riley flew down with his dad, Dave Toth, who also races locally and serves as president of the Medicine Hat Drag Racing Association. Dave said it was great to see Riley win.
“I’m excited for him and very proud,” said Dave. “He just turned 22 and he’s already a world champion. I don’t think there are many racers that young who can say that. It was great to be there and see him win.”
While he is enjoying the win, Riley says he has his sights set on a higher category.
“The goal is to repeat for now,” he said. “One day I would like to move up to Pro Stock Motorcycle category, but for now I am happy with the win and will go for a repeat next year ... The Pro Stock racers are the pros. They race all year and are on TV — that’s where I want to get to.”
Riley’s season is over for now but he will start up back next year in the city. He said he wanted to thank his support system for their help.
“I just want to thank my family — my mom, dad and brother for the support,” he said. “I’d also like to thank my girlfriend. I’ve had a lot of great support over the year.”