Image: Octopi Media.

Australian export Hunter Lawrence moved to dedicate his 250SX East victory in Indianapolis to Brayden Erbacher, who tragically lost his life in round one of the Australian ProMX Championship last weekend.

It was an emotive tribute from 23-year-old Lawrence, who originated from Landsborough before embarking on his international career, and one that will particularly resonate with the Queensland-based motocross community.

“We work so hard for these days and I want to dedicate this to a young Australian rider who lost their life recently, Brayden Erbacher – this one is for you buddy,” red plate-holder Lawrence said from the podium on Saturday evening. “I know you are over there keeping me safe on such a gnarly track.

“I didn’t personally know Brayden, but I can only imagine what his friends, family and the motocross industry back home are going through, so this one is for you and for all of your friends and family buddy – you were riding with me out there and kept me safe on a gnarly track. This one is for him.”

After emerging on top in immensely technical track conditions in Indy to mark his fourth victory in five rounds, Lawrence holds a 22-point advantage in the 250SX East standings ahead of Max Anstie as Monster Energy Supercross moves to Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, this weekend.