Little-known local rider Bryce Verize pulled off the biggest win of his career by stalking then passing Ryan Villopoto to win the 125 All-Star race at the Pala US National.

Villopoto set off right on the outside gate and railed round the first corner to take the holeshot on his Pro Circuit-tuned Yamaha YZ125 and lead the field.

But KTM man Verize was on his tail and chased him hard. Verize, whose parents run a motocross workshop at the Milestone track, has always had loads of talent but never had the good breaks to give him a top-flight ride.

At Pala, he proved his credentials by following Villopoto then making his move to take the lead.

The former supercross champ tailed him and tried to get close enough to make a pass. But Verize held on to take the win from the former GP and Supercross racer.

Villopoto still holds the championship lead but he’s only thought to be doing two or three more rounds.

Husqvarna off-road race Colton Haaker had a good ride in the top ten.