Cruz Trent Birchard, a 16-year-old from the small town of Banning, California, was born on August 3rd and has already set ambitious goals for himself with a clear plan for achieving them. Cruz’s racing career began at just 5 years old, competing in 50cc dirt bikes at The Dirt Series, Transworld Series, and the Lake Elsinore Grand Prix. After three years in motocross, Cruz transitioned into the SXS industry in 2016 at the age of 8. Starting in the 170/250 class, he quickly advanced through the ranks, ultimately deciding to compete in the Pro class at the impressive age of 14. His Pro debut was marked by a 1st-place finish against 12 competitors.
In addition to his short course success, Cruz has achieved remarkable milestones in desert racing. In 2022, he became the youngest racer to compete in and win Best in the Desert’s grueling 500-mile Vegas to Reno race, earning a 2nd-place podium finish. In 2023, he set another milestone by ironmanning the Mint 400 and completing the race. All of this has been driven by his ultimate dream of racing trophy trucks, a dream he will realize in 2025 when he debuts in an SLR Motorsports Trophy Truck at The Mint 400.
Cruz races long-range desert courses at Best in the Desert, DP4, and the Martelli Brothers Unlimited Series, piloting a Carr One Fabrications/West Coast Motorsports-built Polaris Pro R. His races include marquee events like the King of the Hammers, Mint 400, and California 300. Looking ahead, Cruz plans to compete at SCORE races in Baja.