JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) showcased his exceptional versatility by securing victory in the Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT on Sunday. This race, part of Round 13 of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, was held in Sturgis, South Dakota, and despite weather delays, delivered a thrilling display of motorcycle racing.
Beach, starting from pole, immediately took command of the race. Although a red flag due to a collision involving Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) and Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Sody Ent/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) briefly interrupted his momentum, Beach quickly reasserted his dominance after the restart. He eventually crossed the finish line with a 1.715-second lead, marking his second win of the week after his triumph at the Black Hills Half-Mile on Tuesday. This victory elevated Beach to nine career TT wins, tying him with Steve Eklund for third on the all-time list.
Beach praised the event and the fans: “It’s been a great three rounds, but this round was amazing. I’ve got to thank the Estenson Racing Monster team for letting me fill in for Dallas (Daniels). It’s been a real good three races.”
In the AFT Singles class, Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) put in a noteworthy performance. Although he lost the holeshot to Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F), Drane stayed competitive throughout the race. He was ultimately challenged by Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R), who passed him on the final lap to secure a second-place finish. Drane finished third. Drane’s strong showing highlighted his potential in the AFT Singles class holding onto a competitive position.
Both Beach and Drane demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, contributing to a memorable night of racing in Sturgis.