On February 22, 2025, Chad Salutz, a passionate privateer motocross athlete for Rides Unlimited, tragically sustained a catastrophic injury while practicing at the Georgia Practice Facility (GPF) in preparation for an upcoming race. During a routine training session, Chad’s chain snapped mid-jump, causing his front end to drop abruptly. This forced him to be ejected from his bike, slamming his body into the face of the jump with devastating force.

In the moments that followed, Chad tried to move his body but quickly realized that he could no longer feel or move his legs. The gravity of the situation was clear, and emergency medical services were immediately called to the scene. Chad was airlifted to Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare, where he was quickly assessed by a team of specialists.

Upon arrival, Chad was diagnosed with a serious spinal injury: a burst fracture at T7-T8, a spinal cord contusion, and multiple rib fractures. The injury caused a significant loss of sensory and motor function below the T8 vertebrae, resulting in paralysis from the belly button down. Chad also suffered a stable C3 fracture that will be treated conservatively with a cervical collar.

On February 23, 2025, Chad underwent a 5.5-hour surgery performed by Dr. Matthew Lawson, a highly respected spinal surgeon. The procedure included posterior thoracic stabilization, decompressive laminectomy, open reduction of the T8 fracture, and other complex spinal operations to stabilize his spine.

Chad is from Winter Garden, FL and lives with his fiancée, Kelsie. She has been able to be by his side in the hospital. Chad races for the privateer team, Rides Unlimited in the SMX World Championship Series. He competes with the support of top industry sponsors, including Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, KTM, FMF, Dunlop Tires, SEVEN and more.

Chad’s immediate future will involve intense inpatient rehabilitation as he works to adapt to life following this life-changing injury. His team is currently focused on securing the best possible care team and treatment facility to ensure his recovery journey is as successful as possible.

While the road ahead is uncertain and full of challenges, Chad and his family are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from his friends, sponsors and everyone else in the motocross community. Despite the severity of his injury, upon hearing the prognosis from his doctor, Chad's first response was “This will not be my story. I am going to give this everything I’ve got.” This shows how strong and determined Chad is.

We’re deeply saddened to share that, number 559 AMA Pro Motocross racer, 18 year old Adler Caudle was involved in a serious accident at Jeeps Motorcycle Club on Saturday September 14th, 2024. During a practice session, Adler, over jumped a triple into a rhythm section causing him to not get enough lift off of the next jump. He was then sent into the face of the following jump and in an attempt to save himself, went over the next two jumps with his feet off of the pegs which sent him over the bars causing him to land on his head at the face of the last jump. As a result of his crash, Adler sustained a T-5 burst fracture with a T-5 spinal cord transection, resulting in a severe spinal cord injury.

Adler is currently located at Saint Francis Regional Medical, in Wichita, Kansas where he has already undergone one surgery in an attempt to stabilize his spine. A spinal fusion from T-3 to T-7 with instrumentation added to the spinal column for support. Adler is currently in the surgical icu unit being observed. Adler is now paralyzed from the waist down and it is unlikely Adler will ever be able to walk again. Despite this, he’s staying incredibly positive and hopeful, saying, “I am currently paralyzed from the belly button down and will be 'forever.' I will make a miracle happen.”

Adler’s passion for motocross has always been inspiring, he has spent 15 years dedicated to working towards his goal of racing professional motocross and supercross. Although he won’t be racing at the national level as he’d hoped, his love for the sport remains strong. We know Adler’s positive spirit and the support from friends, family, and the rest of the motocross community will help him through this.

For those of you who would like to generously show your support and get updates on Adler’s recovery, please visit Adler Caudle’s Road 2 Recovery Cause Page. Additionally, we appreciate any messages and words of encouragement to lift Adler’s spirits as he and his family navigate this extremely difficult time.

Update From Adler’s Parents

As of Saturday morning Adler was able to be transferred via an Angel MedFlight to Jim Thorpe, an acute spinal rehab facility in Oklahoma City, OK. They wasted no time and upon arrival Adler was able to start his first day of therapy. As far as the therapy itself, everything has been going very well and he's been able to get in three full days of work.

However right now our main concern is a pressure ulcer on his coccyx bone. These types of wounds are caused from caretakers in the hospital not rotating him properly. A pressure ulcer in this type of situation can take months to heal and unfortunately for Adler he is also battling some Anemia. So with the restricted blood flow it can potentially take longer. Now that he is at the rehabilitation facility they are focussing on making sure he is moving around and able to rotate more to hopefully start to help this pressure wound clear up.

Outside of the rehab room, Adler’s family is currently in contact with the insurance company to advocate for Adler to get more time in the rehabilitation center. Currently they are only offering him 20 days, which is just not enough for the work that needs to be done. They are hoping to get this number extended to at least 30 days minimum, if not more.

Adler is working hard on his recovery. He unfortunately still has a very long road ahead of him but we know he is strong and will get through it. This is just the beginning. We ask that you please visit Adler Caudle’s Cause Page on Road2Recovery.com to donate, leave kind messages and stay up to date on Adler’s progress.

Update From Adler’s Parents

Adler has maintained his positive attitude and sense of humor throughout this journey. We are grateful that his determination, will, and strength have never wavered. Above all, we know that while Adler’s heart is strong, his will is even stronger.

Currently, at the acute spinal rehabilitation center, Adler’s pressure wound is beginning to improve. However, his care team has some concerns about his incision, which led them to call in a wound care team. They performed debridement on a few areas along the incision site, and it is now starting to heal. Moving forward, they will closely monitor the situation due to the back brace and his positioning.

For Adler’s family, one of their main priorities is to make the necessary modifications to their home so that he can eventually return. It is essential to create changes that will allow Adler to function and move around comfortably once he leaves the rehabilitation center.

He is fortunate to have an amazing care team. They have provided Adler with a temporary wheelchair, enabling him to go outside with his friends, which has greatly lifted his spirits. Additionally, his therapist arranged for him to try an adaptive bicycle, allowing him to cruise through the hospital halls and around the therapy room. This demonstrated that Adler hasn’t lost his love for speed; his therapist even had to remind him to slow down!

Looking ahead, they have a plan for Adler’s first outing outside the facility as part of his reintegration process. They are organizing a trip to the Oklahoma River, where he will have the opportunity to get into a boat and enjoy some time outdoors.

Our gratitude to friends, family, and even strangers is beyond words. Having good people in our corner has made this long and challenging process easier than it might be for others. The love and support we receive as a family fuels us to keep our heads up and embrace this journey.

Road 2 Recovery Foundation Open’s Donation Support Page for Mike Healey Funeral Expenses

July 11, 2024 – The motocross community was deeply saddened by the announcement last week of Mike Healey’s passing. Healey 55, passed away peacefully at his home on July 4th 2024.

Mike Healey's career in motocross spanned several decades, during which he earned a reputation as one of the sport’s most talented and dedicated riders. Known for his fierce competitiveness and charismatic personality, Healey also nicknamed “Stray Cat” made an indelible mark on the motocross world.

Mike is survived by his daughter Mika Jayne, mother Sue and brother Pat Healey. Beyond motocross, Mike’s true love was his daughter. She was his North Star, guiding him through life’s twists and turns. He reveled in her laughter, celebrated her milestones, and cherished their moments together. Mike’s legacy isn’t just about trophies; it’s about the love he poured into her life.

A celebration of Mike Healey's life and career will be held at Harbor Lawn Mortuary in Costa Mesa on Thursday July 25, 2024 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Mike’s Road 2 Recovery Cause Page to help pay funeral expenses that the family is unable to handle. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the motocross community.

Update - 02/05/2024

The last few weeks have been hard. The recovery process is more difficult and painful than I anticipated, specifically with my back and my sciatic nerve. To stay as healthy as possible, I have been trying to find holistic practices to help ease pain. Heat therapy has done a wonder for my pain and to help me sleep better at night.

This week, I have been able to really focus on improving my recovery. Getting to go to the gym is definitely a highlight for me. To help get my strength back, I have been focusing on working out on a low resistance bike and walking 5,000 steps a day. Seeing the improvement in my limp and in my pain is giving me hope in my recovery journey.

Thank you for the help and support and prayers. It’s hard not being able to race right now, which has put a huge load on us financially. Your help has been such a blessing.

Update From Chris- 01/03/2024

Back injuries are tough. Other than the pain and discomfort, I’m doing much better. I am still unable to sleep in my own bed as the pain is too bad. I can’t climb upstairs yet, either. I have been attending therapy with Dr Toy in Temecula a few days a week. He and his team are taking good care of me. The sciatic is crazy bad.

I am going to try to go to A1 to support my friends. I’m hoping by next week, I will be able to crawl into my bed again. I have a couple more doctor appointments out here, including an MRI to see an update and if the bleeding is gone on my spine. If all goes well, I hope to return on the bike by the end of February. Thank you everyone for all your prayers and support.

I’ll be back soon!

In early December, professional Supercross racer Christopher Prebula suffered severe injuries during a routine practice session for the 2024 Supercross season at a Supercross track in Hemet, California. On December 8, Christopher encountered a challenging rhythm section, resulting in a high-impact crash. This accident led to multiple serious injuries, including fractures of the right clavicle fracture and the AC joint, multiple right vertebrae fractures with compression of the T3 to T5, and a punctured lung.

Initially taken to a local hospital, it was quickly decided Christopher required a transfer to a level 1 trauma center due to the severity of his injuries. After being stable a few days, he underwent surgery on December 11 to address his right clavicle, replacing a previously installed clavicle plate from a prior injury with a larger 10-hole plate. Currently, no additional surgeries are scheduled, though his medical team is closely monitoring his condition.

Christopher has been on strict bed rest, unable to walk but retains movement and feeling. His medical team has prescribed a 5-6 week course of physical therapy, details of which are currently being finalized. Despite having insurance coverage, the financial burden of Christopher's extended hospital stay and the extensive physical therapy he requires is expected to be daunting. The inability to work during his recovery only adds to the financial strain.

Christopher's dedication to racing is well-known, with his heart and soul deeply embedded in the sport. If you can lend support during his recovery, you can donate through Christopher's R2R Cause Page here. Your contributions will aid his rehabilitation and ensure he receives the best care possible. Messages of hope and healing are welcome as well.

Wills “Wheels” Fedrick, the paddock manager of Monster Energy AMA Supercross, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Wills always had a friendly and smiling face in the pits and worked sun-up to sun-down to make the Monster Energy Supercross FanFest as best as it could be for fan, riders, teams, and truck drivers. He was an energetic and spirited young man that was well respected and loved by the paddock and has made a lasting impression on the sport of Supercross. Wills Fedrick will be sorely missed by everyone involved in Monster Energy AMA Supercross. Godspeed Wills. @racerxonline

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Wills’ family and friends during this difficult time. At present, all immediate and essential financial needs have been provided. If you would like to make a donation in Wills’ name in lieu of flowers you can do so here. We invite everyone to share their positive memories and messages for Wills’ loved ones to read and reflect on in the future. Rest in peace Wills.

Photo Credit- @align.with.us

Update 05/08/24

Hey, everyone- Kade here! I wanted to give another quick update for y'all.

I'm still attending physical therapy regularly, and I've been pleasantly surprised by the progress I've been making. It's allowed me to hike, hit the gym, and even get back on my mountain bike. However, I know I still have a long way to go before I'm fully back on a bike. In these past few weeks, I've had the chance to hang out at my local tracks like Glen Helen and Sun-Fair with the SLR Team. It feels great to be back at the track and surrounded by my moto community again.

When I'm not focused on my recovery, I've discovered a new passion for training the younger generation of racers. It's amazing to use my passion for racing in a different way.

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my entire recovery journey! Your support hasn't gone unnoticed, and I wouldn't be where I am today without it.

Road 2 Recovery is excited to announce an incredible opportunity to support Kade Tinker-Walker's recovery, while also standing a chance to win big! From now till June 1st, you can enter to win and potentially win an impressive 2023 CRF 250r, designed to replicate Kade's 2023 NGPC Pro II Championship-winning bike.

For $20 per entry, you could become the proud owner of the replica of Kade’s iconic 2023 NGPC Pro II Championship bike, donated by SLR Honda. Plus, here's the best part – all proceeds from this raffle will go directly towards Kade's ‘road 2 recovery,’ providing essential help for him as he recovers from a traumatic brain injury.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference and potentially win an extraordinary prize. Secure your entry today and join us in rallying behind Kade's recovery efforts!

Go to tinklerwalkerraffle.com!

Winner will be announced June 1st, 2024 at Baja 500!

Update- 04/05/24:

It’s been a while since I dropped an update, so here’s what’s been happening on my end. I’ve been going to physical therapy about three times a week to work on getting stronger and healthier. In the short 4.5 months since the crash, I have gained some movement back on my right side. This has been a work in progress and thanks to @zeropointathletics for helping me get this far but we are not done yet and getting more movement back is looking promising, but no definite time line on this. With more movement I can hopefully start driving again soon. When I’m not at @zeropointathletics , I’ve been enjoying some simpler hobbies like mountain biking and hiking. Additionally, I’ve had taken up the opportunity to mentor some kids, sharing my expertise and helping them improve their riding skills.

Kade Tinkler-Walker Update- 01/10/24:

We're thrilled to share some fantastic news about Kade. @kwalker651 is now back in the US, receiving specialized physical therapy tailored specifically for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) recovery. We're fortunate to have access to a facility that's not only renowned but also committed to crafting a personalized recovery plan for professional athletes like Kade that have suffered a TBI. This program focuses on enhancing his unique skill sets, ensuring a holistic and effective approach to recovery.

Kade will be utilizing some groundbreaking TBI-specific medical equipment and services. These advanced tools are designed to accelerate recovery time, offering the best possible care. We're optimistic that these resources will play a crucial role in his healing process.

We are incredibly grateful to have Kade back stateside and to have access to such specialized care. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who has supported Kade and his journey to recovery. Your encouragement means the world to us and to Kade! 🙏❤️

This is going to be a long and extensive recovery but Kade is commented and excited for this phase of his journey.

Let’s keep cheering for Kade as he makes strides towards getting back to his best!

Official Update provided by Kade Tinkler Walker’s family- 12/15/23:

Dear Friends!
We are reaching out with heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers you have extended towards Kade Tinkler Walker during this challenging time. Your love and encouragement have been a beacon of hope for Kade and our family.

Both challenges and milestones have marked Kade’s journey towards recovery. As many of you know, Kade sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which, while not outwardly visible, requires considerable time and effort for internal healing and rehabilitation. Each day brings its own set of victories and hurdles, as brain injuries are complex with unpredictable recovery trajectories.

Despite these challenges, we are thrilled to share some positive developments. Kade has shown encouraging signs that have enabled his transfer from Scripps Mercy Hospital in Southern California to his home country, Canada. This move marks a significant step in his recovery process, allowing him to embark on an intensive therapy regimen under the care of a dedicated team of specialists, including a sports medicine doctor, a rehabilitation doctor, a physiotherapist, an occupational therapist, and a speech therapist.

The decision to start Kade’s recovery in Canada was challenging but ultimately made in the best interest of Kade’s physical and financial well-being. As a Canadian citizen, Kade will benefit from the healthcare system there, which is instrumental in facilitating his long-term rehabilitation. This move aligns with his ongoing medical needs. It ensures continuity in the high-quality care he requires, with the ultimate goal of coming back to Southern California to receive specialized therapy once medically approved.

While we are optimistic about Kade’s progress, the road ahead remains long and requires substantial resources. The extensive nature and expected long-term needs of his therapy, coupled with the looming concerns regarding the final medical bill from his hospital stay in California, a figure that remains uncertain but is expected to be substantial, adds another layer of complexity and ultimately assists in making this difficult decision a bit easier.

In this moment of reflection, we are immensely grateful for the tireless efforts of everyone involved in Kade’s emergency response and medical care. From the individuals who ensured his safe transport from the accident site to the medical professionals who have been relentlessly working towards his recovery – your dedication has not gone unnoticed. While we hesitate to single out individuals due to the sheer number of contributors, please know that your efforts are deeply appreciated and have made a significant difference in Kade’s journey. And thank you to everyone who has generously donated thus far; your contributions have been invaluable. You have helped provide the support and peace of mind to navigate these ongoing financial challenges.

We remain hopeful and inspired by Kade’s resilience and the unwavering support of our community. We will continue to update him on his progress and are thankful for every gesture of kindness and support extended to Kade and our family.

With deepest gratitude,
Kade’s Family

Official Team SLR Honda Update- 11/30/23:

Thank you all for your concerns and prayers for Kade. It’s been an enormous blessing, and it’s working. There is a lot to be grateful for as Kade keeps improving day by day. Kade has been able to get his breathing tube out as well as his feeding tube. (Huge milestones at this time) he is starting to wake up and can reply with jesters when asked, like moving body parts or signals. He cannot speak yet, mainly from the breathing tube being in (normal). He does recognize his Mother, Aunt, and Mark and is making considerable improvements in the right direction.

The Family and team can’t thank you guys enough for the extensive prayers, thoughts, and donations you have made to Kade. It’s truly touching in these times. As we have been working through all of these steps, Kade, being from Canada, is not covered for any medical expenses here in the USA until he returns to Canada. Road 2 Recovery is working on this for us to help ensure Kade gets the best possible care while here and helping us fundraise to help cover the costs he will incur. So, thank you to everyone who has helped, and please share the Road to Recovery link with everyone.

We will keep you posted in the next few days with more updates as Kade keeps progressing.

Official Update from SLR Honda’s team owner Mark Samuels- 11/22/23:

Professional Off-road Racer and the 2023 NGPC Pro2 Champion Kade Tinkler-Walker sustained critical injuries while competing in the 56th SCORE Baja 1000 in Baja, California, on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Kade, riding for team SLR Honda, was airlifted to Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego, where he is currently undergoing treatment for a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and remains unconscious.

Medical professionals at Scripps Mercy have confirmed that apart from the TBI, Kade has no other emergent physical injuries. To support his recovery and minimize any potential strain during unconsciousness, he is under medical sedation to facilitate healing. The medical team is encouraged by Kade’s progress in body functions and response to external stimulation. In response to this positive progression, this afternoon, doctors plan to closely monitor his ability to breathe independently without the support of a ventilator.

The duration of Kade’s unconscious state is uncertain, with estimates provided by his medical staff ranging from 30 to 60 days, depending heavily on individual factors and injury severity. Upon regaining consciousness, Kade is expected to face a lengthy recovery period. We request that everyone respect the privacy of Kade and his family during this sensitive time.

To help keep everyone accurately informed of Kade Tinkler-Walker’s recovery, all official updates will be released via the SLR Honda website and social media pages and then updated here on Kade’s R2R Cause Page. Kade’s family and the SLR Honda Team extend their heartfelt thanks for your continued support and outreach.

Road 2 Recovery Foundation encourages those who can to contribute to his cause on his R2R page here. Your donations will significantly aid in managing medical expenses and provide relief to his family. We also welcome positive messages for Kade and his family, which can be posted below.

Chris “Dang” McAvoy, a beloved figure in the motocross world, will be commemorated through the Chris “Dang” Memorial Charity Golf Tournament on May 30, 2024 at the Rancho Murieta Country Club in Rancho Murieta, CA. This heartfelt event, in conjunction with the Chris “Dang” McAvoy Memorial Fund, aims to provide financial support for Dang’s cherished daughter, McKenzie, while continuing his passion for supporting the industry and its athletes.

Beyond his accomplishments in the motorsport industry, Dang was a kind-hearted soul who brought joy and laughter to every race and industry event he attended. His genuine warmth and friendly nature endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Dang was not just a colleague or acquaintance; he was a true friend to many.

In honor of Dang’s memory, the Chris “Dang” Memorial Charity Golf Tournament will take place on May 30, 2024, coinciding with the Pro Motocross Championship Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento, California. This event promises to be a memorable gathering where individuals can pay tribute to Dang’s legacy while raising funds for a worthy cause.

Registration is now open at https://www.eventcreate.com/e/danggolftournament

Each team is made up of four players and space is limited, so get your team registered early by completing the online registration form. Individual participants are also welcome and will be assigned to a team at random. The cost is $200 per person, which includes a breakfast and lunch.

If you are unable to attend and still wish to contribute, please visit
www.road2recovery.com/industry-causes/in-memory-of-chris-dang-mcavoy/ .

If you have questions about this event or would like to learn how to donate to the team, please contact Jammi Robertson at Jammi.Robertson@KTM.com

Event Schedule:
Thursday, May 30, 2024
7 :00AM – Registration Opens + Breakfast
8:00AM – Shotgun Start
2:30PM-3:30PM – Lunch, Raffle and Awards

Registration:
Cost: $200 per golfer
All golf fees include breakfast, lunch, green fees and cart.

Please use the registration link to complete sign up for the event.
https://www.eventcreate.com/e/danggolftournament

It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we, along with the Moto community, mourn the sudden passing of Chris “Dang” McAvoy. Dang was not only a remarkable individual but also a beloved figure in the industry. His contributions to the motocross community and his infectious spirit will forever be remembered.

Dang’s journey in the motocross world began as a young Team Manager for the Yamaha of Troy team during the glorious era of Jason Lawrence. With his exceptional leadership skills and unwavering dedication, he played a pivotal role in guiding the team to victory in the 2008 250 West Region Supercross Championship. His commitment to excellence and passion for the sport was evident in every aspect of his work. Even after the Yamaha of Troy team disbanded, Dang continued to make significant contributions to various teams and brands within the industry, including his most recent role of District Sales Manager, PG&A for KTM Corporation, where he left a lasting impact. Dang’s professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm touched the lives of countless individuals throughout his career.

Beyond his accomplishments, Dang was a kind-hearted soul who brought joy and laughter to every race and industry event he attended. His genuine warmth and friendly nature endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Dang was not just a colleague or acquaintance; he was a true friend to many.