Damon Garrell Makes Sea to Sky History on a Sherco 125
Damon Garrell has made hard enduro history at the 2026 Sea to Sky, becoming the first rider to finish the demanding Mountain Race on a 125cc motorcycle. Riding for the Trademore Sherco Racing Team, the young talent proved that determination and smart riding can go a long way in one of the toughest events on the hard enduro calendar.
Rather than chasing positions, Garrell focused on reaching the finish line — a decision that paid off after a challenging day in the mountains.
“I struggled in the morning, but as the day progressed, we made progress and just moved along,” Garrell explained after the race. “I didn’t really go for position. I really wanted the finish, and that was the goal — and we achieved that.”
The result adds another milestone to an impressive young career. In 2024, aged just 16, Garrell won the Silver class on his Roof of Africa debut. He then went on to complete the Gold category in 2025, becoming one of its youngest finishers.
He has also shown his potential on the international stage, winning Round 1 of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship Youth Cup at 24MX Alestrem in France in April 2026.
Sea to Sky, however, presented a different challenge. Getting a 125cc machine through the full Mountain Race demanded patience, consistency and a willingness to prioritise the finish over outright speed.
Garrell was understandably delighted with the outcome, particularly given the wider significance of his result.
“We came here and we achieved what we wanted to, and we walk away a world champion, so I’m really stoked on that,” he said. “It hasn’t quite set in yet, but I’m really grateful for everyone who has given me the opportunity to be here.”
For Garrell and the Trademore Sherco Racing Team, this was more than simply reaching the finish. Becoming the first rider to complete the Sea to Sky Mountain Race on a 125cc bike is a standout achievement — and another sign that Garrell is a name to watch as his hard enduro career develops.