MEET THE TOMACS: Do you know Eli Tomac Wasn’t The First In His Family to Race Loretta Lynns? as he speaks on how the family member helped him
As we gear up for the 40th Annual Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the rich history and remarkable achievements that have emerged from this iconic event.
Loretta Lynn’s has long been a breeding ground for future motocross stars, and to celebrate four decades of world-class youth and amateur racing, we’ve compiled 30 memorable stories from years past.
The Legacy of Loretta Lynn’s
The lore of Loretta Lynn’s is steeped in the triumphs of numerous motocross legends. Among the early stars was Ron
Since then, the list of notable graduates has only grown, including nearly every top contender in the current Lucas Oil Pro Motocross standings.
As we head into the Spring Creek National at Millville, Minnesota, the top ten in the 250cc class reveals a fascinating trend: every rider except Hunter Lawrence has raced at Loretta Lynn’s. Lawrence, who hails from Australia and later competed in Europe before turning professional, is the sole exception.
However, his younger brother Jett, the current points leader, is a Loretta Lynn’s alumnus, as is Jo Shimoda of Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki, who is currently fifth in the standings. Other prominent names like Justin Cooper, RJ Hampshire, Jalek Swoll, Colt Nichols, Jeremy Martin, Garrett 
Marchbanks, and Austin Forkner all boast multiple appearances at Loretta Lynn’s.
The 450cc class also highlights the Ranch’s influence, though notable exceptions include Dylan Ferrandis, who is French and came from the European Grand Prix circuit. Nonetheless, talents like Ken Roczen, Dean Wilson, and Max Anstie joined their American counterparts—such as Aaron Plessinger, Justin Barcia, Chase Sexton, Cooper Webb, and Adam Cianciarulo—on the Loretta Lynn’s starting gate as young racers.
The Tomac Dynasty
A particularly fascinating chapter in Loretta Lynn’s history is the Tomac family story. Eli Tomac first made his mark in 1999 when he finished 29th in the 51cc 4-6 class. Over the next few years, Eli climbed the ranks, securing his first championship in the 65cc (10-11) Stock class. However, the Tomac legacy at Loretta Lynn’s began even earlier with Eli’s father, John Tomac, a renowned cycling legend.
In 2001, John Tomac, already celebrated for his achievements in road and mountain biking, decided to enter the motocross scene.
Racing alongside his son, John competed in the Vet B/C class on a Suzuki, while Eli raced in the 51cc and 65cc classes.
John’s remarkable performance led him to win the Vet B/C class with 2-2-7 moto scores, making him an AMA Amateur National Champion at Loretta’s.
John Tomac returned in 2002, aiming to defend his title but finished 24th. Despite this, Eli’s time was approaching. By 2007, Eli secured his first of eight Loretta Lynn’s AMA Amateur National Championships, with his final two titles coming in 2009.
In a testament to his prowess, Eli made an unprecedented debut in professional motocross by winning the first AMA Pro Motocross race he ever entered—the 2010 Hangtown National.
Today, Eli Tomac’s illustrious career includes multiple AMA Pro Motocross titles and the 2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship.
Though he will always admire his father’s unique achievement, 
John Tomac will forever be celebrated as the first Tomac to win at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch.
As we celebrate 40 years of Loretta Lynn’s, it’s clear that the Ranch has been more than just a venue; it has been a launching pad for some of motocross’s greatest talents.
Here’s to many more decades of racing excellence and unforgettable moments at this legendary site.
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