45 Austin Stroupe

Stroupe is another one of Mitch Payton’s groomed-for-greatness Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki riders. Following the path of the likes of Ricky Carmichael and Ryan Villopoto, Stroupe had a great amateur career with Team Green, and when he had his shot to show what he could do as a pro, he delivered. Following the 2007 Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National Championships, Stroupe raced the final three rounds of the AMA Motocross Lites Series, finishing as high as fourth overall at Steel City Raceway.

This year was Stroupe’s first full season as a professional, and there were high expectations for him. He didn’t disappoint in his first full supercross season, finishing third overall in the final West Region Supercross Lites points standings, including notching a win at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas. He also won the season-opening Glen Helen National to start the outdoor championship, but dropped out with a reported illness after only a few rounds. Sam Wappelhorst