Why Baja Racing Requires Mental Grit and Perfect Planning

Last weekend, the searing heat of Baja California set the stage for one of the most grueling off-road challenges in the world: the 57th 2024 BFGoodrich SCORE Baja 1000. Top American and international racers gathered in Ensenada, Mexico to tackle 864 miles of unforgiving terrain in Moto and Four-Wheel Drive Pro classes. The iconic loop crossed both sides of the peninsula before returning to Ensenada.

For Eric Holt, the event marked another milestone in a racing career built on determination and resilience. Holt secured two Top-3 finishes in the season finale—Overall and in the Pro Moto Unlimited Class.

Eric Holt: 

“We’re thrilled to be part of Baja off-road racing right now, competing against some serious talent. I think there were ten teams with a real shot at making the podium.”

Holt’s journey began in 2010 when he was a chase guy to support factory KTM rider David Pearson. In 2018, he transitioned to Baja racing, steadily building a reputation as a top competitor. Highlights include multiple podium finishes in SCOREcompetitions, including a fourth-place finish at the 2024 BFGoodrich SCORE Baja 500.

The Baja 1000 brought its own set of challenges. At Race Mile 720, Holt’s team lost rear brakes, and a loose bolt caused issues with the chain guide. “We had to recover quickly from this adversity,” he explained. For Holt, overcoming setbacks is part of the game. 

“The most challenging part is organizing and executing the perfect plan. And when things go wrong, it’s about adapting and staying focused.”

Focus and communication are central to Holt’s approach. “As a rider, there are so many dangers and distractions. You have to be in the moment every inch of the way,” he said. His team’s hard work paid off as they debuted a new bike for the race, earning high praise from all riders. 

“It worked phenomenally. We’re excited to get more seat time on this machine—it’s the best we’ve had yet.”

Norman Racing has ambitious plans for 2025, including competing in the National Hare and Hound Series. However, their primary focus remains winning the SCORE Baja Series and earning the prestigious 1x plate. “It’s been non-stop work to get to this point, and we aren’t done yet,” said Holt.