Ruml Claims Shining Moment at 2021 AMA Speedway National Championship

Max Ruml’s silver history received a hint of gold at Fast Fridays Motorcycle Speedway

October 1, 2021

By Keaton Maisano

Although Max Ruml went into the 2021 AMA Speedway National Championship with an impressive resume for a 24-year-old racer, he was still seeking a breakthrough.

Ruml’s second place finish in the 2019 AMA Speedway National Championship was a far too familiar position for the rider who has been racing professionally since 2013, so 2021 offered up the opportunity to put multiple silver-medal finishes in the event behind him. On Sept. 25, 2021, Ruml seized the chance to claim the title for the first time by edging out runner-up Gino Manzares by 2 points.

“I was stoked coming into this round with a perfect score in New York, but Gino [Manzares] was right there,” Ruml said. “I am just very excited to be National Champion.”

Ruml entered the final round at Fast Fridays Motorcycle Speedway in Auburn, Calif., with strong momentum from his New York performance in early September. Securing all 21 points in the opening round, he held a 5-point cushion on Manzares and Austin Novratil.

His hot streak followed him across the country, and Ruml was able to secure first place in each of his first five rounds of heat races. Despite the scorching start, the advantage built up in the first half of competition proved vital as Ruml dropped 4 points throughout the final round — including a withdrawal from the grand final race after he went into the wall.

Although his 17 points on the night were not enough to beat Manzares in the final round, they were enough to clinch the National Championship.

Ruml’s title marked the conclusion of the season at Fast Fridays Motorcycle Speedway after the USA vs. The World finale event was canceled due to travel challenges.

2021 AMA Speedway National Championship

1—Max Ruml (38), 2—Gino Manzares (36), 3—Billy Janniro (30)

2021 AMA Speedway National Championship (Final Round)

1—Gino Manzares (20), 2—Billy Janniro (16), 3—Charlie Venegas (16)