As this year’s West Coast Supercross faded out on song, a new winner powered in: Davi Millsaps.
Creeping up from second place last week in Anaheim, the Rock Star Energy Racing speedster cemented his place at the top of the series points table in the 450 Main Event, finishing atop of Justin Barcia (Muscle Milk Honda, 2nd) and Ryan Dungey (Red Bull KTM, 3rd).
The rock-hard track base combined with an unsettlingly loose surface wreaked havoc for even the most experienced of riders in both the 250SX and 450SX classes.
Boasting a deeply-dug whoops section and some fast-forming ruts, it was clear from the first race of the evening that rider traction control would be the deciding factor at the checkered flag.
Millsaps stole the 450 Main Event Nuclear Cowboyz holeshot on his Suzuki before maintaining a steady lead out in front of the pack as they flew around San Diego’s Qualcomm Stadium.
New South Welshman Chad Reed was hungry for first and looking solid until a wayward front end got the better of him on the berm, as he tailed Millsaps by under a second.
Following what could only be described as a classy yet consistent heat race – which he won – James Stewart held on at 5th place above Ryan Villopoto as the race headed into its 13th lap.
Millsaps stretched out in front, held his ground and crossed the line with a convincing win.
Post-race and understandably short of breath, a clearly happy Davi Millsaps made it clear to Erin Bates how thrilled he was with his performance.
“It’s amazing, especially having won the first race then just podium and then podium and podium; words can’t explain it,” he said.
Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Martin Davalos dominated the practice rounds earlier in the day, according to Jeff Emig, posting a nifty 47.6 second lap time.
His form didn’t quite stay with him in the 250SX Main Event, which was dominated by Ken Roczen and Eli Tomac with Malcolm Stewart riding hard as well.
Eli Tomac (GEICO Powersports Honda) took first place by merely inches ahead of Ken Roczen (Red Bull KTM, 2nd) and Jason Anderson (Rock Star Energy Racing Suzuki, 3rd).
Unfortunately, the red ‘medical’ flag was flown in the first 450 heat. As per AMA rules, the race had to be re-started using the single-file standing format as the race leader had completed at least 4 laps and had covered less than 90% of the total race distance.
No rider takes comfort in knowing one of his competitors went down so hard that he needed on-site medical attention, but the race charged on nevertheless.
Next week, it’s all on in the Lone Star State at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Points tables top three:
450:
250:
Content by: TSM Editor Paul Savage
