Photos: Darrin Chapman

Defending Kenda Tire National Enduro Series Champion Steward Baylor Jr. took the first step in his title defense, winning the opening round in Wedgefield, South Carolina.

A record number of entries were on hand to tackle a great 61 mile course laid out by the local club SERMA, featuring miles of new trail weaving through the South Carolina sand and pines. Heavy rain was predicted to hit the region at race time, and whlle it did begin to increase as the first riders were completing the third test, the moisture did not play too big of a factor in course conditions, with the exception hindering visibility.

(l to r) Toth, Baylor and Kelly on the Pro 1 podium

A couple of big surprises in the Pro 1 outcome included 2017 runner-up Thad Duvall suffering a mechanical DNF, while new full-time series regulars Josh Toth and Ben Kelly rounded out the podium in second and third.

Ryder Lafferty on his way to a win in Pro 2.

Ryder Lafferty captured the win in new Pro 2 class out pacing Nathan Ferderer by 13 seconds with Zach Hayes finishing third.

Fresh off an ISDE qualifier win, MInnesota’s Nathan Ferderer made good on his return to the national series with a second in Pro 2.

Results

Watch for a full Photo Recap coming soon.