Aidan Zingg, a promising young motocross rider, tragically passed away at the age of 16 following an accident during a race in Mammoth Lakes, California. The incident occurred on Saturday at the Mammoth Mountain MX event, where Zingg was competing in the 250cc B class. Reports indicate that he fell during a corner and was subsequently struck by other riders.
Zingg was known for his exceptional talent in motocross. He had recently signed with Kawasaki’s Team Green program, a significant achievement for any young athlete in the sport. Just this year, he won the American Motorcyclist Association’s 2024 Amateur National Championship in the Supermini 2 class at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Tennessee. This victory marked his seventh consecutive qualification for the championships, highlighting his dedication and skill.
Originally from Hemet, California, Zingg and his family had moved to Washington state, where he continued to pursue his passion for motocross. His sister, Alex Zingg, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing her deep sorrow and reminiscing about their playful banter. She wrote about how they joked about who would pass away first, wishing now that he had been right.
Zingg’s impact on the motocross community was profound. Many industry professionals and fans expressed their condolences and shared memories of his kind nature and competitive spirit. Kawasaki Racing released a statement, mourning his loss and remembering his dedication to the sport.
Donn Maeda, a motocross journalist, also paid tribute to Zingg, recalling his charismatic personality and the impression he left on those he met. He highlighted how Zingg maintained his humility even as he rose through the ranks of motocross.
Just ten days before his death, Zingg shared a post on Instagram, encouraging fans to "remember the name." His sudden passing has left a significant void in the motocross community, where he was seen as a rising star with a bright future ahead.