A Dominant Force in Short-Course Racing and Beyond

The 2024 short-course season was one for the record books for CJ Greaves, who won the AMSOIL Championship Off Road in three classes: PRO STOCK SxS, PRO SxS, and his record ninth PRO4 Championship. Additionally, he took the top spot in both the FCP Community Cup and Crandon World Cup, becoming the Crandon World Championship winner in Pro-4 and Pro Stock SXS. Even for the already highly celebrated short-course racer, it was an incredible season.

How it All Started

CJ Greaves has made an undeniable mark in the world of off-road racing, following in the footsteps of his legendary father while carving out his legacy. His journey began early, starting in motocross when he was just two and a half years old. With a strong foundation in motocross and a passion for competition, he quickly became a force to be reckoned with. However, his path took an unexpected turn when his father encouraged him to try short-course off-road racing.

Despite initial reluctance, Greaves took his first steps into off-road racing with a Super Buggy. At just 14, he learned the fundamentals, overcoming early struggles to quickly make an impact in the sport. His first races in California proved he had natural talent, and he secured podium finishes almost immediately. This success led to sponsorships from significant names like Traxxas and BF Goodrich, propelling his career forward and enabling him to transition into higher-tier racing classes.

As Greaves progressed through the ranks, he moved into Pro 2 and Pro 4, consistently demonstrating his skill and adaptability. His relationship with sponsors remained strong, allowing him to maintain a competitive sports presence. Toyota, Maxxis, and Monster Energy played key roles in his journey, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier drivers in short-course off-road racing.

The Journey into SxS Racing

The transition into SxS racing began with a simple request for parts, leading to early support from Steve Rounds’ Supercross team. A pivotal moment came with a demo of a stock 2016 Yamaha YXZ Retro Edition, sparking further interest. Yamaha then provided a high-mileage demo car, which was converted into a race vehicle and debuted at Crandon.

By 2017, a multi-year deal with Yamaha solidified the team’s addition of SxS racing. As the latest powersport gained popularity, Greaves began building competition SxSs in the offseason.  The lower cost of entry helped expand short-course racing, attracting new competitors.

Now, in the fourth year with Polaris, CJ Greaves’ passion for SxS racing remains strong. With manufacturer support growing, SxSs have become vital to off-road racing, keeping the sport thriving.

In addition to racing, Greaves and his family managed and promoted their racing series, Side by Side Sports, for a few years. This venture, while demanding, allowed them to foster new opportunities for off-road racers and create a unique competition format. Though the series eventually ended due to time constraints, it left a lasting impact on the industry, helping to grow the popularity of SxS racing.

A Legacy in Short Course Racing

Having grown up immersed in short course off-road racing, the journey has been one of evolution and deep family ties. During the sport’s various ownership changes—when Monster, Ricky Johnson, and later Traxxas were involved—there was an opportunity to witness and experience its growth firsthand. With a father who made off-road racing his career, the lessons learned from the sport’s progression and challenges have been invaluable.

With his father inducted into the Off-Road Hall of Fame and stepping back to enjoy hobbies like fishing, the responsibility of managing operations has shifted to the next generation. From running the offseason builds to handling customer relations, the team continues to adapt and evolve. His father’s willingness to take risks—some successful, others not—has provided invaluable experience in racing and life.

The family’s involvement in the sport continues to expand. His sister’s young children are growing up around racing, while his brother-in-law Kyle competes in SxSs, keeping the tradition alive. Racing has become more than just a competition—it’s a way to bring the family together throughout the summer.

Short-course racing stands out for its strong sense of community. Every team has family at its core, and the camaraderie at the track is unmatched. Competitors are always willing to lend a hand, ensuring that everyone has a chance to race. This unique family-driven atmosphere keeps many involved in the sport for the long haul.

Life Off the Track

Greaves’ influence extends beyond the track. He co-hosts the “Off-Season Show,” a podcast that brings racers and industry figures together to discuss various aspects of motorsports. This platform has provided insight into the racing world, featuring guests from diverse backgrounds, including Olympians and professional athletes who share a passion for off-road adventures.

Greaves also enjoys a range of outdoor activities, from wakeboarding to snowmobiling. These interests keep him active and enhance his ability to adapt to various terrains and conditions, skills that translate seamlessly into his racing career. His father has even encouraged him to take up fishing, viewing it as a way to relax and unwind outside the high-pressure world of competition motorsports.

The Next Chapter

Looking ahead, Greaves continues to push boundaries. In a significant move, Toyota has acquired one of the team’s PRO4 trucks. The team plans to feature high-profile drivers, including NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson. This development underscores the continued growth and mainstream appeal of short-course racing.

Beyond competition, Greaves has developed a keen interest in the business side of motorsports. Over the years, he has played a vital role in team management, vehicle development, and working closely with manufacturers to advance racing technology. His involvement in these aspects of the sport showcases his commitment to excelling as a driver and contributing to the future growth of off-road racing.

His love for RC racing extends beyond a hobby—it is a way to refine his understanding of vehicle control and aerodynamics on a smaller scale. He collaborates with a leading RC company to test and develop new products, contributing valuable insights that influence real-world racing technologies.

Looking to the future, Greaves is eager to continue expanding his horizons, potentially exploring new motorsports business opportunities while maintaining his dominance in off-road racing. He remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in motorsports.

CJ Greaves’ journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and passion for off-road racing. With a strong foundation built on family, sponsorships, and innovation, he continues to shape the future of the sport while staying true to his roots.