By: Brandon Short - Since turning heads in his first career professional motocross race at Hangtown in 2004, Josh Grant has become one of the most intriguing riders in American Motocross. With his carefree attitude and smooth riding style, Grant always looks like he is having fun both on and off the track. For anyone that knows the Riverside, Calif.native, they can tell you that the laid back nature of Grant is what makes him so likable. He's become a fan favorite, and one would be hard pressed to find a more personable rider. But, that same laid back outlook has also caused Josh to receive criticism for a perceived lack of commitment. Whatever the differing opinions may say, though, one thing is certain: Josh loves to ride motorcycles. What separates Grant from his peers is that he finds the joy in his profession, letting it show on the track with one of his trademark whips. If not on a track, Grant wants to be out in the hills, free-riding and catching air through the natural terrain. It is his passion for dirt-bikes that often leads to the cause of his criticism when really his approach to his own career is just different than most riders. This is what the Alli Show sought to cover.
Grant was blessed with a natural talent that has made his development into one of the world’s best riders smoother than many of his competitors. While he has yet to reach the pinnacle of the sport by claiming a title, he is a multiple race winner, perennial front-runner and a consistent threat to win the championship. In an era of professional motocross that arguably has the most talent the sport has ever seen, some would say Grant has the most untapped potential, and is on the verge of a breakout season. The 23-year old made his move to the premier 450cc machines for 2009, after claiming he was better suited for the bigger, more powerful bike. He went on to shock everyone by capturing the most surprising win in Supercross history at the opening round in Anaheim. Injuries, which have plagued Grant throughout his career, led to an up and down rookie season indoors and after establishing himself as a legitimate title contender at the outdoor nationals, he was robbed of a chance to prove he has what it takes, with a serious crash at the X Games. Despite serious injuries to each of his feet, Grant was determined to return, and did so late in the season at Budds Creek, finishing well but bringing 2009 to an official end after acknowledging it wasn’t worth the risk to continue.
Josh Grant is a fighter. Determined to be the best rider he can be and no matter what obstacles are in his way. He will never give up, boasting a smile and his characteristic swagger through it all.
