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COPYRIGHT 2004 Ehlert Publishing Group
At the start of the 2004 ITP/ATVA MX Nationals season, few people gave "Digger" Doug Gust a chance to win the Pro-class championship. In fact, many wondered if the aging vet could even stay competitive on the modified Suzuki Z400 he was riding.
At the first National of the year in Glen Helen, Calif., however, Gust and his Yoshimura-prepped Z450 surprised a lot of people by finishing second overall to Kory Ellis. At the next round, Gust reached the top podium spot with a convincing win at Gatorback. Then, Gust proved he really is a living ATV legend as he reeled off five more wins. His six consecutive Pro-class overalls made ATV MX history and sent shock waves through the racing community. The victories also gave Gust a huge points lead and helped him secure the 2004 crown, his third Pro-class championship since 1998 (Pro Production in 2003).
Jeremiah Jones--who will be Gust's Suzuki/Yosh teammate next year--ended Digger's streak at Round 8 in Casey, Ill., but Gust still finished second. In fact, Gust won eight of the 12 events this year and finished second at the other four, finishing on the podium the entire year. Now that's impressive.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
We recently spoke with the champ about this year, next year and all things in between, including a showdown with Suzuki's other superstar, Ricky Carmichael.
ATV Sport: Give it to us straight, not even you could have predicted a 2004 like you had.
Doug Gust: I knew I had a good team behind me, but I didn't figure I'd have a year like I did. I knew I'd be good and have a good shot--because of my team and support--but I didn't expect to be that good.
ATV Sport: How does a 37-year-old man beat a bunch of kids and younger racers? Are you on steroids?
Gust: No. I'm older and wiser. I know a little more than most of the riders. It's a combination...
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