On July 21, 2025, Hayden Bennett, a 19-year-old professional women’s motocross racer, suffered a life-changing spinal injury during a training session, just weeks before her debut in the final three rounds of the WMX Championship.
After landing short on a step-down jump, Hayden impacted hard, losing all feeling in her lower body. She was first transported to Berkshire Medical before undergoing emergency surgery at Baystate Medical Center for a compression fracture to her L1 vertebrae. Surgeons fused her spine from T12 to L1 with screws and rods.
Now at Helen Hayes Rehabilitation Center in New York, Hayden is undergoing intensive recovery and has already been fitted for leg braces. Her inpatient rehab is expected to continue until August 22.
A dedicated privateer, Hayden had been training hard for her first WMX appearances at Ironman, Unadilla, and Budds Creek, with her family by her side. Known for her active lifestyle, she now faces a new battle — one that will require strength, time, and community support.
To support Hayden’s recovery: https://www.road2recovery.com/athlete-causes/hayden-bennett/
We stand with you, Hayden.
Your strength, courage, and determination inspire the entire motocross community.
This is a different kind of race — and you’re not riding it alone.