Frid’Eh Update #40 | Zach Ufimzeff | Brought to You by Dirt Care

Frid’Eh Update #40 | Zach Ufimzeff | Brought to You by Dirt Care

By Billy Rainford

Welcome to Week #40 of the DMX Frid’Eh Update brought to you by Dirt Care. This week finds us at the 2025 Motocross of Nations at Ironman MX in the little town of Crawfordsville, Indiana, about 45 minutes west of Indianapolis.

There’s a lot going on here, of course, so this “Update” will have to consist of just this interview. If you go check out our Instagram and Facebook pages, you’ll get all the updates from Team Canada MXON while we’re here.

Let’s get to the conversation:

Direct Motocross: OK Zach, I have to get to this right away. You’ve been really struggling getting yourself back up to strength the past couple years. Have you made any headway into getting back to 100%? How are you doing these days?

Zach Ufimzeff: Hey Billy, It’s been a rough couple years for sure. Something that’s been pretty challenging to deal with, but, from where I was at this point last year, I am steps ahead. We are on a good trajectory based on how much I’ve progressed since January. 

To be honest, I was surprised you even tried to race this past summer! How were you even able to do it? What was it like trying to get through race days?

It’s the moto mentality in me that just can’t quit. I had to put everything into it. I spent my first 2 weeks training this year doing 3, 4 lap sessions a day, and that’s all. With the help of my trainer (Jim Frederickson) and a whole lot of dedication, I was able to progress. The first round was everything I had, but as the season went on, my body only got better.

What was your best race this summer? Was it frustrating for you?

Best race was moto 2 at Cold Lake. The result didn’t necessarily show, but the ride was good. I crashed in the first turn. I came from last to 12th, and still felt good at the end of the moto! That was a sign of hope that my body was coming around.

But then you had that crash that took you out of action. A broken collarbone and a suspected knee injury. Can you take us through the fixing of these issues and how it’s going today?

Ya, so I got surgery on my collarbone and was up and going pretty quick. After some time, figured out I fully tore my ACL. But suggestions from surgeon imply that going without surgery could be the preferred route, so that’s what I’m doing. Rehab is going well and strength is coming along.  

How old are you now, by the way? And I guess I’ll ask you for your numbers: what’s your height and weight?

Turned 23 in September. Stats lol, 165lbs and 6’1”

What have you been doing lately? What do you do for work when you’re not racing?

Just living home life. I’m always on the road so just enjoying my time at home. Got a new job, as an interior painter. Lol. New skills and easy on the body.

And now I hear you’re coming to Indiana for the MXON? Who are you coming with and where are you staying?

Yep. I’m excited to get back with some moto guys and watch some good racing. My dad and I are flying out and staying with my uncle who lives nearby. 

As a younger fast kid, is representing Canada at this event something that you think about? 

Definitely. I would love to represent my country at an event like this. It’s always been a dream of mine and something I’ll keep working towards.

What does next season look like for you? How was your team with your condition this year and your potential future?

They were super supportive and understanding throughout the year, knowing what I was dealing with. Right now, I just have to focus on getting my knee and health back to 100%. 

What is the plan for this coming winter?

So far just work. I need the time to heal and keep progressing with my body.

Have you been able to keep cycling while you’re going through your knee issue? Do you still love it?

Yep. It was was the first thing I got back to once I could bend my knee enough to pedal. The bike is such a good tool for your base. I want to upgrade my bike soon though.

If no ride comes up, will we see you and your dad at the races in 2026?

I’ll be healthy, you’ll see me out there. 

What do you predict for the podium this week at Ironman MX?

I think Australia wins, and a battle between USA and Belgium for 2nd and 3rd.

OK, I look forward to seeing you and your dad this weekend. Thanks for taking some time with us this week. Good luck and who would you like to thank?

Thanks, Billy. I’d like to thank Chris and Brayden at Guaranteed Comfort Racing for all the support this year, Hanover Motorsports, Honda Canada, Fox Canada, Matrix concepts, Race winning brands, SSS suspension, Twisted Development, HGS, Guts Racing, Rekluse Canada, Woody Graphics, Renegade Fuel, Jepistons, Twin air, Lennox Air, and Amana Heating and Cooling.