From ATV Motocross to Side-by-Side Racing – A Story of Perseverance and Passion

David Gay’s journey in short-course off-road racing is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of passion. With roots in motocross, an unexpected career change, and a life-altering accident, Gay’s path to success in the short-course side-by-side racing scene is anything but ordinary.

The Early Days: Dirt Bikes and ATVs

David’s racing career began at four when he first got on a dirt bike. His childhood love for motorcycles quickly grew into a passion for ATVs as he transitioned to four-wheelers around 15. By the time he turned 16, Gay was racing ATV motocross. He competed at this high level for several years, gaining recognition and eventually advancing to the national stage.

After a successful stint at the ATV Nationals, Gay felt he had accomplished all he set out to do in the world of ATV racing. “I wanted to race a full national season, and after I did that, I felt like I had reached my goals,” he explained. But as with many athletes, the physical toll of the sport began to catch up to him. Injuries were becoming more frequent, and Gay soon realized his time in motocross was ending.

A Transition to Side-by-Side Racing

It was during this transitional period that Gay met Robert Loire, a fellow racer, and began considering the possibility of racing side-by-sides. “I had a great friendship with Robert, and I started watching him race,” Gay shared. A combination of factors influenced his decision to jump into the world of short-course racing: the growing popularity of side-by-sides, the alignment with his career, and the simple desire to keep racing.

In 2023, Gay made the leap, getting behind the wheel of the new Polaris RZR XP 1000. “It was an opportunity to be the first to prove this new machine on the track,” he said. His first season in side-by-side racing was filled with learning but also a lot of fun. “I had a blast, and I knew right then that this was where I wanted to put all my effort into.” That passion and drive led David to the top of the PRO-AM SxS class, winning the 2024 championship.

Racing and Career at Polaris

While Gay’s weekend racing career was taking off, his professional career with Polaris progressed. By 2025, he’ll have been with the company for eight years, holding the position of Senior ORV Development Technician. “I work mainly with the RZR platform and focus on the calibration of the PVT system, clutch box architecture, and transmission ratios,” Gay explained. His deep knowledge of Polaris vehicles has allowed him to merge his love for racing with his professional career.

Although he is independent primarily in his racing endeavors, Gay’s role at Polaris has undoubtedly helped him on the track. He acknowledged that some of the lessons learned from racing — especially in short-course and desert racing — have been applied back into the development of Polaris vehicles. However, as Gay pointed out, “You do a lot more in racing to make the vehicle perform, and there are compromises you have to make for production vehicles.”

Overcoming Life’s Challenges

While David’s transition to side-by-side racing was a positive one, his life was forever changed by a tragic accident that occurred early in his racing career. In a harrowing incident, Gay was struck by car while riding a supermoto motorcycle. The crash left him with severe injuries, including a broken right femur, a fractured humerus, a broken left wrist, and a traumatic brachial plexus injury, leaving his right arm completely paralyzed.

Doctors told Gay that he would never be able to use his right arm again, but he was determined to prove them wrong. After multiple surgeries and years of rehabilitation, he regained some mobility and strength in his arm — around 80% mobility but less than 50% strength. Despite the odds, Gay defied expectations and returned to racing.

“My view on life completely changed after that,” he said. “When people tell me something is impossible, I figure out how to make it possible.” This mindset has not only propelled him in his racing career but also in his personal life. Whether on the track or off it, Gay’s work ethic and refusal to give up have become the foundation of his success.

The Future of David Gay’s Racing Career

Looking ahead, Gay is planning to race in the Pro Stock class for 2025. “I want to show up and battle with the front of the pack. I don’t want to show up and run at the back,” Gay stated. He has already begun making the necessary adjustments to his vehicle to prepare for this next step, though he emphasized that it’s not about making drastic changes. “It’s about making sure everything is as perfect and fresh as possible.”

While Gay focuses on his side-by-side racing career, he views it as a hobby and supplement to his professional role. He’s not in a rush to jump to the Pro class but is setting himself up for success. His constant drive to be the best remains his true motivation, whether at work or on the track.

A Message of Inspiration

David Gay’s journey from ATV motocross to side-by-side racing, combined with his ability to overcome personal adversity, inspires all who follow his career. He shares his story not to boast but to encourage others who face challenges. “I don’t just go through the motions. I do everything to be the best I can be,” Gay remarked.

His message is clear: Don’t let obstacles define you. Push forward, and when life throws you a curveball, adapt and keep going. In the world of short-course off-road racing, where speed and precision are everything, David Gay proves that it’s not just about the vehicle — it’s about the will to never give up.

As Gay continues to push the limits of his racing career, one thing is certain: His best is yet to come.