Early in 1980, Tom took his rebuilt 1979 CR125 down to Florida. The first race he entered was in the Winter Warm-up series. Broc Glover and Karl Jordan had been at the front of every 125 Pro race with their new YZs. That was until Benolkin showed up. Tom and his year-old Honda came away with both moto wins. With a gradually more help from Honda, he won every moto he finished. Only a thrown chain in the last race cost him the championship and the perfect series.

1980 - Tom and his wife Roxanne are directed to the winner’s circle after he dominated the 125 Pro class in Cocoa, Florida.

Benolkin celebrates his 125 Pro win with 250 and Open winners, Mickey Kessler and Don Kudalski

It may look like he’s crashing but this is actually a clever inside line in the deep sand

Styling at the old Grand Rapids track between nationals in 1980

Honda wanted to help Benolkin out, but the race team was already contracted for the year. He received bikes and parts, but was not paid. As the Mid-Ohio 125 USGP approached, Honda had a complete RC125 for Benolkin. He would have a works bike for the USGP and the two remaining nationals. World renowned mechanic, Bill Buchka, would be his wrench.

Tom checks the front axle nut as he jumps as crests a "Zumbro" uphill

The 1980 USGP is remembered for Johnny O’Mara winning the extremely muddy race while racing a beautiful, white Mugen Honda. While that was going on, Benolkin was making his mark, powering to the holeshot in the first moto and finishing third. He would join many of the top riders on the sidelines in the second race. Benolkin finished off the year on a high note at Sunshine Speedway in Florida. After getting caught up in a first-turn pile-up in the first moto, he finished second behind Barnett in the second race.

Tom holeshot and finished third in the first moto of the nearly-underwater 1980 Mid-Ohio 125 USGP

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