James Stewart: The Legendary Supercross Racer's Career and Legacy

The Legendary Career of James Stewart

James Stewart, nicknamed "Bubba," is considered one of the greatest supercross racers of all time. With his flashy riding style and ability to make the difficult look effortless, Stewart captivated fans and dominated the sport during his prolific career.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Born in 1985 in Bartow, Florida, Stewart began riding motorcycles at the incredibly young age of 3 years old. His natural talent and passion for the sport was evident right away. By the age of 7, he had already won his first national championship in the 51cc class.

Stewart continued to excel as an amateur racer, racking up titles and showcasing his incredible speed and innovation on the track. His amateur career culminated in a historic 2002 season where he became the first racer to win all three major amateur national championships in the same season.

Transition to Pro Racing

With his amateur career firmly cemented as one of the greatest ever, Stewart turned pro in 2002 at just 16 years old. He joined the prestigious Kawasaki factory racing team in the 125cc class. It didn't take long for "Bubba" to make his presence felt in the pro ranks.

In his first pro season in 2002, Stewart dominated by winning every moto and earning the 125cc East region Supercross championship. His debut season similarities to recipient melbourne cup betting tips announced himself as the next big star in the sport.

Premier Class Dominance

James Stewart will forever be linked with the #7. After winning the 125cc West championship in 2003, Stewart moved up to the premier 250cc class in 2004, now sporting his iconic #7 jersey. Just as he did in the 125cc class, Stewart wasted no time establishing his dominance.

In his rookie 250cc season, Stewart won 9 out of 16 races and earned the 2004 West Coast Supercross title. The following year, he won the 2005 250cc Supercross Championship, cementing himself as the new king of the class.

Championship Runs and Rivalry with Ricky Carmichael

James Stewart got his first opportunity at the ultimate prize in supercross/motocross racing in 2006 - the 450cc championship. With racing legend Ricky Carmichael firmly in control, Stewart brought an intensity and competitiveness that the sport hadn't seen before. Their rivalry became a defining storyline in the sport.

The 2006 championship came down to the finale in Las Vegas, with Carmichael besting Stewart. But Ricky Carmichael's retirement after the season opened the door for Stewart's reign atop the premier class.

Stewart went on to win back-to-back Supercross championships in 2007 and 2008, cementing himself as the top racer in the sport. He won 27 combined races over that 2 year run of dominance.

Injuries and Comebacks

James Stewart's career can also be defined by injuries and his subsequent comebacks from them. After his 2008 championship, Stewart missed most of 2009 with a knee injury and lost his title. But in true Stewart fashion, he roared back and reclaimed the Supercross championship in 2011.

Unfortunately injuries would strike again for Stewart in subsequent seasons, but his love for racing always brought him back. Although he wasn't able to replicant previous championship success, Bubba remained a popular fan favorite and continued to add to his legendary stature in the sport.

Racing Accomplishments and Legacy

When James Stewart finally retired from racing in 2016, his accomplishments and impact on supercross were unquestioned:

• 2 Supercross championships (2007, 2008)
• 1 Motocross championship (2008)
• 50 combined Supercross/Motocross wins
• 2nd all-time in Supercross wins (behind Ricky Carmichael)
• Revolutionized riding style and technique
• Widely considered the fastest rider of his generation

Although Ricky Carmichael remains the undisputed Greatest Of All Time in supercross/motocross, James Stewart made a strong case for being the most talented and influential racer to ever throw a leg over a dirt bike.

Post-Racing Endeavors

After retiring from professional racing in 2016, James Stewart has remained highly involved in the sport through training programs and riding clinics for aspiring amateurs and pros. He continues to push the sport forward through these coaching and training initiatives.

Stewart also remains engaged with fans through appearances and commentary at supercross events. The #7 jersey still draws awe and cheers to this day when James Stewart is in attendance.

While his riding career may have ended prematurely due to injuries, James Stewart's legacy and impact on supercross is eternal. The "Fastest Man on The Planet" pushed the sport to new heights and inspired generations of riders with his incredible talent, charisma, and love for supercross racing.

FAQs

How many supercross championships did James Stewart win?

James Stewart won 2 Supercross championships during his professional racing career in 2007 and 2008.

What was James Stewart's nickname?

Stewart's nickname throughout his motocross career was "Bubba." The nickname was given to him as a child by his family.

Who was James Stewart's biggest rival?

Stewart's biggest rival throughout his racing career was Ricky Carmichael. Their rivalry in the mid-2000s defined the sport during that era.

How old was James Stewart when he turned pro?

Stewart turned professional at just 16 years old in 2002 after a tremendously successful amateur career.

What bike brand did James Stewart ride for?

For nearly his entire pro career, Stewart rode for Kawasaki and became closely linked with the green brand.