Sanchez King Honored With Nicky Hayden AMA Road Race Horizon Award
Cycle News Staff | November 5, 2024
Derek Sanchez King was awarded the 2024 Nicky Hayden AMA Road Race Horizon Award, which honors the late Nicky Hayden and recognizes a racer with the necessary skill and determination to excel in the professional ranks. Sanchez King was the standout rider at the 2024 AMA Road Race Grand Championship, which ran October 18-20 at Daytona.
Derek Sanchez King was awarded the 2024 Nicky Hayden AMA Road Race Horizon Award. Photo: Vae Vang
“Derek is an incredible kid with a knack for high speeds and racing success,” AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant said. “Although he’s only 14 years old, he carries himself with the demeanor of a seasoned professional, and I cannot wait to see what he accomplishes going forward.”
A native of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Sanchez King raced his way to victories in the 400 GP Expert and AMA 400 classes, in addition to podium finishes in the 400 Superbike and ASRA 400 classes. Sanchez King will bring his talents to the MotoAmerica Talent Cup next season.
“When I found out I got the Nicky Hayden Horizon award, I didn’t know what I was feeling. Getting this award is amazing,” Sanchez King said. “It’s felt and still feels like a dream to have received this award, as several of my friends have received it, and now I will be part of this history.”
Antal Halasz of College Point, New York, took home AMA Vet/Senior Racer of the Year honors for the second consecutive year.
In addition to Sanchez King and Halasz’s accomplishments, Jace Summer earned the AMA Amateur Road Racer of the Year Award.CN
