Polaris Dominates 57th SCORE Baja 500 with Sweeping UTV Podium
The manufacturer’s RZR Pro R Factory machines filled the top six spots, with Sims marking his first SCORE win since 2022.
Polaris racers delivered a commanding performance at the 57th SCORE Baja 500, securing the top nine overall positions in the UTV class. The brand’s side-by-side competitors not only took the podium but also claimed the UTV Overall victory, demonstrating significant institutional strength in the gruelling 468-mile desert event.
Branden Sims crossed the finish line first in his RZR Pro R Factory race rig, marking his first SCORE victory since 2022. Starting from sixth place, Sims navigated the brutal terrain to lead the charge, with Wayne Matlock finishing second and first-year RZR Factory Racing driver Ethan Groom taking third. The result completed an all-Polaris podium for the event.
The dominance extended beyond the top three, with Polaris machines occupying the top six overall spots. Mitch Guthrie Jr. finished fourth, followed by Dallas Gonzalez in fifth. Joe Terrana and co-driver Rodrigo Ampudia secured sixth place, while Mike Cafro, Sebastian Marquez, and Kristen Matlock rounded out the top nine in seventh, eighth, and ninth positions respectively.
Sims described the victory as a return to form after a period without a win, noting the reliability of his vehicle. He stated that the RZR Pro R Factory performed flawlessly throughout the day, allowing his team to execute a smart race plan. The win comes in only his second race in the specific vehicle, highlighting the rapid adaptation to the machinery.
Alex Scheuerell, Polaris’ Director of Off-Road Motorsports, praised the team’s dedication and the vehicle’s durability. He emphasised that the RZR Pro R Factory continues to set the benchmark in off-road racing, delivering the performance and reliability required to win in the toughest conditions.
Polaris is now directing its focus to the next round of the off-road racing calendar. The team aims to maintain its momentum at the Best In The Desert Vegas to Reno event, scheduled to take place from August 12 to 16.
