Welcome back Supercross fans! Not only was the Amp’d Mobile SX all about exciting race action, it was about changes in the qualifying format and additional TV coverage. As the season opener, this was one of the most exciting and dramatic SX races we have seen. It was Reed’s night to show what he could do. He rode smooth and without error taking the win. I think it was as much of a surprise to him as it was the crowd. Predictions were made seemingly in favor of Stewart or RC. Reed rode his own race confidently to victory, beginning his debut with his new team. On the other hand, Stewart’s night was jaded by his clash with Preston in the main and the earlier practice conflict with Tedesco. Both riled up all kinds of controversy. Stewart finished in a strong 3rd place but it ended with an injury and not making it to the podium to celebrate. Then, we have Ivan Tedesco who never made the night show due to a hand injury from practice. The drama started there when Stewart and Tedesco collided in a turn and Tedesco got launched off the track. And we can’t forget about RC, he seemed to be purely at ease and to enjoy each lap as if it were his last. With RC on a limited schedule and semi-retiring from SX, the pressure is off to go for a championship, but he’s still going to give it his all. The fans knew that this could be virtually his last race in Toronto . This is the beginning of his farewell tour. RC has done a lot for the sport and the sport has done a lot for him; he is truly a very grateful guy with nothing to lose; a true champ.
Canada is the staging ground for young riders to get a taste of SX race action before the opener in Anaheim . It’s a time for new talent to shine especially in the Lites class. We saw Martin Davalos, Broc Tickle, and Zack Osbourne top the podium for the Lites main event; all are young riders coming up in the ranks. We also saw new comer Michael Willard who made an impressive SX debut, winning his heat race and coming in 4th in the main event. Willard is a former Canadian champion and is looking forward to racing the Lites west coast rounds for the ‘07 season. Davalos dominated the Lites class with his first top podium finish. He also won the Progressive Direct holeshot check. Davalos was all smiles and got a great start with his new ride aboard the Red Bull KTM.
I'm so happy to be on the podium again this year. Toronto was extra exciting for me because I had a chance with the microphone. The experience of watching the races right from the podium is absolutely fantastic, however actually getting to report what’s going on makes it so much more exhilarating! That’s what it’s all about - sharing my enthusiasm for this awesome sport with the fans!
The new format changed things up a bit and creates for a full day of excitement. One of the goals of the new format is to eliminate wear and tear of the track. Being that the Toronto track is riddled with rocks and deep ruts, I’m sure the riders and the fans are digging this new format. The fans were on their feet for the intense SX class action. Toronto was one exciting race and not what was expected for the start of the season. The saying is true, “expect the unexpected,” and that is going to make this season one of the most anticipated yet. Don’t forget, Speed is airing the SX class the Sunday after the live show, so no waiting to see the live action. Also, Anaheim1 is going live! I’m sure there are more surprises in store! As we look forward to RC's last races this season, the real heat is seeing which rider will rise to the occasion and take the championship. And we still have yet to see the talents of many SX stars who have the potential to really stir things up such as Millsaps, Tedesco, and Windham . We are only one race into the SX season and a lot has happened, what is your take on Vancouver and the 07 season?
See you at the races!
Miss Supercross
Brittney
missupercross@yahoo.com
