Is Hard Enduro on the Right Track? | Inside the Sport with Mike Skinner | S2E6

In this episode we had the opportunity to chat to Mike Skinner who is a legend in the hard enduro paddock and has been involved in the sport for 12 years. He's seen the sport change and evolve over the years and has truly been on the inside of what can sometimes be seen as a sport with many decisions made behind closed doors. 

We got to speak to Mike about the 2026 season and if he believes that the sport is on the right track. He shares his hopes for the this new chapter and his belief that everyone needs to work together to grow the sport. 

In 2025 Mike took on more of a media role filling a really important hole is hard enduro coverage. He is often able to get to places many aren't and captures some of the best raw footage and rider interviews out there. 

Beyond media, Mike is also a world class track setter and is able to share some common mistakes and suggestions for anyone whether it be track setters or race organizers. 

We end our discussion with some bench racing, talking about when the juniors will eventually take the top spot, why there isn't a des nations for hard enduro and lastly, his suggestions to young riders looking to make a career out of dirt bikes. 

We hope you enjoy this episode.  

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:52 HEWC
08:21 Media Coverage
16:15 Hard enduro track setting
29:51 Hard enduro ranking system
33:53 Bench racing
48:19 Suggestions for young riders

Which country do you think would win if there was a Hard Enduro Des Nations?? Drop it in the comments... and also let us know which 3 riders you would pick from that country↓↓↓