The 45th running of the FLY Racing Washougal National Presented by Peterson CAT will honour military veterans and active duty members this weekend with Dianna Dahlgren Bates serving as Grand Marshal for the annual Military Appreciation Race. The event marks Round 8 of the Pro Motocross Championship and Round 25 of the Monster Energy SMX World Championship.
Dahlgren Bates, widely recognised for her historic tenure as Miss Supercross, has remained a passionate ambassador for motocross and supercross whilst building her career as a nutrition and fitness expert. As the wife of former Navy SEAL Ryan Bates, she has become a respected advocate for military families and service members.
The Grand Marshal will participate in multiple events throughout the weekend, including autograph sessions on both Friday and Saturday. Her presence highlights the unique intersection of motorsport culture and military appreciation that has become a hallmark of the Washougal round.
Friday’s schedule features the Warrior Class Moto and Branch Battle at 2 p.m., with a trophy presentation following at 3:45 p.m. David Pingree will host the Whiskey Throttle Live Show at 6:30 p.m. in the infield. The HunterSeven Foundation will provide complimentary cancer screenings throughout the day, continuing their mission to support military families affected by cancer.
Saturday’s racing programme begins with opening ceremonies at 12:15 p.m., featuring a colour guard, national anthem, and a Coast Guard Search and Rescue helicopter flyover. The 250SMX and 450SMX classes will contest their first motos at 1 p.m.
Halftime activities scheduled for 2:50 p.m. include a veteran parade lap, Moto Hero presentation, tribute bike presentation, and a donation ceremony between Peterson CAT and the HunterSeven Foundation. The second motos commence at 3:20 p.m.
A dedicated Military Zone will operate throughout the weekend in the infield, providing a focal point for service members and their families attending the event. The comprehensive programme demonstrates the continued commitment of Pro Motocross and the SMX World Championship to recognising those who serve.
The Pacific Northwest venue has hosted the Military Appreciation Race for multiple years, establishing it as one of the most meaningful weekends on the championship calendar. This year’s festivities represent an expanded effort to engage with the military community through both on-track competition and off-track programming.
Photo: Pro Motocross Media
