Inaugural UTV/ATV Derby champions crowned

The Trig’s Smokehouse World Championship UTV/ATV Derby in Eagle River, Wis., crowned its first UTV and ATV world champions. Racers in men, women and youth divisions, from all over the U.S. and Canada, participated in more than 50 classes of competition ranging from ovals, short course (motocross style) and mud runs.

Zac Zakowski, 25, from Menasha, Wis., won the UTV title. He is a pro driver who pilots a 1000cc Can-Am Maverick and is sponsored by Can-Am, Amsoil, Countryside Auto Transport and Straightline Performance.

“By far the most professional event ever … and I have been to a lot of events across North America,” Zakowski said.

The remaining finishing order was Zach Szymik from Green Bay, Wis., aboard a 1000cc Polaris RZR; Matt Schuette from Manitowoc, Wis., aboard a 1000cc Polaris RZR; Ben Pitlik from Eagle River driving a 1000cc Polaris RZR; and his brother Austin, also from Eagle River, driving a 1000cc Can-Am.

Cody Janssen, a pro rider from Kaukauna, Wis., aboard a 450 Honda TRX, won the ATV Derby world title. He is sponsored by Janssen Motor Sports, Elka, Maxxis, Londerville Steel and Valvoline.

Chuck Decker, president and owner of the Derby Race Track said, “I can’t wait until next year … it’s going to be bigger and better. It’s going to be the powersports event in the Midwest that everyone will want to attend!”