After four consecutive Australian Championships and back-to-back Oceanic titles, Charli Cannon faced her first real test of resilience. Just a week after surgery on her index finger, she lined up with Quad Lock Honda for the AMA Women’s Championship, knowing she would race in pain, compromised, and against the odds.
What unfolded wasn’t about winning, it was about courage, growth, and self-awareness. Charli endured defeat, but gained something far more valuable: the lessons only loss can teach. Competition isn’t solely defined by podiums; it’s defined by the relentless pursuit of your dreams. True failure only exists if you never begin. This message resonated powerfully with fans, who witnessed Charli and her fellow female athletes bring unprecedented engagement to this year’s AMA Championship.
“It was a challenge. I hadn’t lost many races before this, so I had to learn how to handle it, how to use those losses as motivation. At first, it was tough mentally, but it’s an important lesson, and I’ll be better for it,” said Cannon.
Remaining in America after the AMA series, Charli continued her preparation for the MXGP of Darwin under the guidance of one of motocross’s most respected yet private coaches, Colleen Millsaps. With Millsaps’ mentorship, Charli learned that while the gate drop guarantees unpredictability, preparation and process deliver confidence. When you’ve done everything possible, you line up knowing you belong.
Team Director Yarrive Konsky emphasised the importance of strong coaching and guidance:
“I’ve heard every opinion there is, but whether it’s sport, life, or business, too many voices can weigh you down. I’ve worked with Colleen before, she’s no-nonsense, focused, and if you’re willing to listen and learn, she’ll give you everything she has. I haven’t experienced anyone like her in the sport. You can’t beat a mother who wants her children to succeed, and Colleen wants her riders to succeed, she’ll do whatever it takes to make them the best version of themselves, if they are willing to give it everything.”
After eight weeks in America that included the final three rounds of the AMA Motocross Championship and an intensive training block, Charli believes she has improved and is determined to carry that progress into the Women’s World Championship. Her immediate goal is a podium finish at the MXGP of Darwin, a step forward in her relentless pursuit of victories.
“I haven’t stood on the podium yet in the Women’s World Championship Grand Prix rounds, but through the work I’ve done with the team, with Colleen, and with Honda, I feel we’re a step closer to achieving that. I hope we can make it happen this weekend, in my home country.” concluded Cannon
This weekend marks the return of a World MXGP event to Australia after more than 20 years.
