I was going through my files and came across this photo of former factory Suzuki rider Brian Gray making a huge jump at Millville in 2004. The photo was taken with an Olympus E100RS with a meager 1.5 megapixel definition, but I like the composition and the fact that it shows just a sliver of the always large and enthusiastic Millville crowd.

Millville is always held in the dog days of summer and even though it’s Minnesota it’s normally hot and humid, yet fans come out in droves and are some of the most knowledgeable in the sport. They appreciate the history of motocross as well and are proud of the fact that home state hero Donny Schmit became world champion.

Brian Gray was Rookie of the Year in 2003 and was signed by Suzuki for 2004. For whatever reason he never reached the potential he showed in his rookie campaign. Gray finished 18th overall at Millville this year. His best result in 2004 was 13th overall at Unadilla, not the kind of results the factories are looking for from their riders.

Factory Suzuki rider Brian Gray caught mid air making a huge jump at Spring Creek Motocross Park in Millville, Minnesota, in 2004. (Larry Lawrence photo)