1300 miles to glory

First and fore most there are a lot of people to thank for this accomplishment; without whom this would not have been possible. We would like to give a massive thanks to Bridgestone Tires and DNA Wheel for carrying us through, FXR, Troy Lee Designs and Alpinestars for outfitting us with top quality protective riding gear, Sin City Motorsports for providing team apparel, Tag Metals, ASV, ARC, DeCal Works, Purely Custom, Motosport, White Brothers, N-Style Graphics, PMP, and Powerpegz for parts and accessories, and MRM, Codigo Seguridad, Dumonde Tech, and Newport Adhesives and Composites for their support. We also owe a big round of thanks to all the friends and family that put in a lot of time and effort during pre-running, and pitting for the race. Thank you all for helping us to the finish, and for helping us support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Congratulations to team member Erik Litzenberg, and now Melisa Litzenberg who were married in Cabo San Lucas during the start of the race.

In a race where almost half of those who started did not finish, our finishing was no easy task. From flat tires, cracked engine case, crashes, bent, broken and loose parts, to a search and rescue mission for an injured rider, with tremendous team work and perseverance, we were able to overcome every obstacle. All of which made the finish even more sweet.

With finishes in all three races (Baja 250, Baja 500, and Baja 1000), Paladin Racing earned a 4th place overall finish for the season. The bar has been set, and with our first full season under out belt in the SCORE-International Off-Road Series, we look forward to continued success and improvement for the 2008 season.

Thanks again to all of our sponsors, and to all those who helped. If anyone would like to help the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, please click on their address and visit their web site, or contact Craig Anstine at craigwthrdstns@gmail.com. Feel free to also visit our sponsors by clicking on their address. Thank you!

Compound Fracture

Due to a serious injury, Paladin Racing, with much compassion, announces that Denis Esperiquette will not be able to compete in the Baja 1000. We wish Denis a full a speedy recovery, and look forward to his return next year. At this time Paladin Racing has no replacement rider and will run the Baja 1000 as a six person team until further notice.

New Members

Paladin Racing is proud to announce the addition of two new riders to the team for the Baja 1000. Santa Fe Fire Department Chief Officer Dave Huckabee and Rick Beaman. Although from road racing backgrounds, both are skilled off-road riders, bringing experience and speed to the team.

Baja 500

On May 28, 2007 team members from Paladin Racing traveled from New Mexico and California, descending upon Ensenada, Mexico for the June 2 start of the Baja 500. With an 18th place finish in class at the Baja 250, after a mechanical mishap; the five person team supported by friends and family was ready, focused and confident going into the Baja 500. 420 miles and a wicked good time later, Paladin Racing was enjoying a 9th in class finish. Fired up and ready for more Paladin Racing now turns its focus to the pinnacle of off-road racing, the Baja 1000.