Jason Anderson Splits From Aldon Baker’s Program
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On Thursday night, Jason Anderson announced via Instagram that he had split with longtime trainer Aldon Baker, a decision that sees the two end their relationship on good terms. Anderson joined Baker’s program in 2014, which coincided with the rider’s advancement to the 450 Class and position at Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing, and soon Anderson became a front-runner in the premier class. The highlight of their relationship was in 2018, when Anderson claimed the 450 Class championship in the Monster Energy Supercross Series, which extended Baker’s streak of titles as a trainer.
“I want to thank him for all the years together! From being a squirrely rookie in the 450 class, to helping me refine my skills and achieve race wins at the top of the sport!” explained Anderson in the caption. “This has nothing to do with his program or anything.. I believe he has a program that’s amazing and wins championships.. that’s just FACTS. For me, I know I’m going to be scrutinized for this decision, which is okay.”
The initial pairing of Anderson and Baker raised some eyebrows, as Anderson’s easy-going attitude wasn’t expected to work well with Baker’s regimented ways, but together they found a balance that worked (Baker is the preferred trainer of the KTM-Husqvarna program). During the 2018 title run Anderson broke away from the training group that included rival Marvin Musquin and stayed in California to work closer with the Husqvarna team, yet remained on a training schedule written by Baker. Another example was their offseason program: Anderson makes it a point to race at many overseas events during the downtime, something Baker is not a fan of. Despite the displeasure, Anderson was able to line up in France, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Australia over the last few years, plus an extended stay to prepare for the 2019 Motocross of Nations.
With the speed to be a race winner on any given Saturday and a few years left on his current contract with Husqvarna (he signed a four-year deal with the team that started in 2019 and ends in 2022), Anderson is at an important point in his career. So why the split now? To avoid the same burnout that some riders said caused them to retire at a young age.
“I made this decision ‘cause I need a change of pace,” explained Anderson in his caption. “Needed different tracks, different gym, different cycle routes… I felt, in the recent year, when it came to my program and daily routine that I was just going through the motions some days, w/ no passion or intensity.. Like I was just waking up and going to work. I don’t want that. I want to have pride in what I do! I want to be trying my butt off everyday to improve, getting sketchy at the track, trying to find that extra little 1/10th of a second. I still want to win races and put my heart into it and I’m more motivated than ever.”
Still based in Central Florida, Anderson will have plenty of places to practice. An amateur rider took over Chad Reed’s property in Dade City and Tim Ferry’s property has been rebuilt for son Evan (he might have some time to figure that out, though, because we’ve learned that Husqvarna and KTM have limited their rider’s riding schedules due to the COVID-19 crisis).
Aware that the decision will be met with criticism, Anderson briefly touched on the topic but stated it won’t be a massive concern and thanked Baker again. “Is this the wrong decision?, who knows.. I’m sure you guys will have your opinions, which is okay. But, I’m more excited, than ever, to be racing. So, thanks to Aldon for putting up with my shit since 2014!”
