GODSPEED! SCOTT BURNWORTH (1963-2024)

We are heartbroken to report that Scott Burnworth, also known as “Burner,” suffered a heart attack and died on December 12th, 2024, at the age of 61.

Scott was a former Yamaha and Suzuki factory racer who earned the reputation as a holeshot artist during his Pro career in the late seventies and early eighties. He led laps in almost every National and Supercross he entered, and every fast guy of the day (Hannah, Lechien Johnson, Bailey, Glover) read the stickers on Scott’s rear fender. His best series result came in 1983 when his finished second in the AMA National Motocross Championship behind David Bailey, but in front of Bob Hannah.

Scott Burnworth and his wife Debbi at the Trailblazer’s banquet in 2018. 

Scott kept a factory ride throughout his career, first at Suzuki, then at factory Yamaha, and then he returned to factory Suzuki before retiring in 1987. He never won a National or Supercross, but he came close five times with runner up finishes at Mt. Morris, Lake Whitney, Red Bud, Washougal and Lakewood in the 250 class in 1983.

After retiring, he went to work at his friend’s watercraft apparel company, Jet Pilot. After many years there, he left and started his own marketing and adversing design company where he worked with Maxima Racing Oils for about 20 years. Scott played a key role with Maxima, managing all aspects of the creative department.

Scott racing the vintage class at the 2016 edition of FastHouse’s “Day in the Dirt” at Glen Helen. 

Beyond his design work, Scott was a great ambassador for vintage bike racing. He raced the vintage classes himself and promoted the popular SoCal Vintage races, fighting to keep our sport’s heritage alive. Scott is survived by his wife, Debbie, and daughters Breanna and Brittin. Rest in peace, Scott.

Scott Burnworth on a hot day at the 1985 Las Vegas 125/250/500 National. Rest in Peace, Scott.