Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1542902
February 2026 13 #12 Taylor Cotnoir Taylor finally put it all together this year and earned a well-deserved spot on the front line. Despite some big crashes and mechanical issues throughout the season, Taylor never stopped figh ng. His grit and mental toughness rival those of the top riders, and if he con nues to hone his cra , I believe he has all the tools to be a top contender. #13 Timothy Daigneault The fi h and final rider promoted to AA from the A250 class is Tim Daigneault. A veteran of off-road racing, Tim has been "around." A er building mo- mentum in the 2024 season, it's great to see him earn a spot on this list. His best finish was tenth at Round 7, the Sanborn Scramble. With his experience and longevity, Tim has the poten al to break into the top 10 more consistently next season. #14 Bob Santheson Bob returns to this list and, I believe, earns the dis- nc on of being the oldest AA Hare Scramble rider in NETRA history. Bob has been racing professionally in New England for over 25 years and is a staple for anyone used to seeing the #29 on the track. Showing no signs of slowing down, Bob cracked the top 10 mul ple mes last season. His fitness, experience, and genuine love for the sport keep him compet- i ve, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him on this list again in the future. #15 Graham Medas Graham muscled his way back onto the list, narrowly edging out Greg Carr on e-breakers with a best finish of seventh at Round 6. Graham outperformed many fast riders through consis- tency and the savvy that only a cra y veteran can bring. He's unassuming and o en sneaks into the mix without anyone no cing un l he's al- ready there. His ability to navigate gnarly terrain is a lost art—one that younger riders (myself included) are s ll trying to master. Un l then, I wouldn't be surprised to see Graham's name on this list again. Congratula ons to all the riders listed above on achieving red plate status. A new genera on of fast racers is emerging in NETRA, alongside seasoned veterans who s ll have plenty le to give. The 2026 season is shaping up to be highly compe ve, with a stacked front line full of some of the fastest racers New England has to offer. Be sure to check out the 2026 schedule and mark your calendars—this is a season you won't want to miss. Jon McDougal Jon McDougal