max anstie – MotoHead

Anstie’s AMA title dream up in flames

admineaserm — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:45:07 +0000

Briton Max Anstie lost the red plate in the AMA 250 East Supercross series when his Firepower Honda died in the main event last night in Alabama, with flames coming out of the exhaust. He said afterwards it would realistically be the end of his bid to win the title as he went from leader to 21 points down in the series.

In the 450 class, Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence grabbed the Holeshot inside Protective Stadium in Birmingham and never relinquished the lead spot to become the first rider to string back-to-back wins in the 2024 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. Heavy rains the night before the race saturated the red dirt track but only light rain fell during the racing at Round 9 of the 17-round season.

Supercross returned to Alabama for the first time in 40 years and Protective Stadium hosted its first Monster Energy AMA Supercross event. The red clay track featured a 308’ start straight, the longest of the season. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb chased Jett from the start but after the opening laps was never close enough to mount an attempt at the lead. Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen recovered from outside the top ten to pass his way forward on the rutted track and claim a third-place finish. In the Eastern Regional 250SX Class, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle backed up his win last week with a commanding win in Birmingham.

First place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“I’m super pumped I was able to link two races together… That was a very difficult track, it could cost you. I felt like old Jett would have thrown it away like Arlington. [You] just had to be very, very patient and not just push this track, it could bite you pretty quickly. We tried going for a little sneaky corner over there; we came up very short. Thank gosh it’s soft so it stopped me. But no, it’s just an awesome, awesome weekend [and an] awesome race. Shout out to the team they’re awesome and now hopefully we can maybe click off some more, but we’ll have to wait and see… the races, they’re all pretty gnarly with all these great riders out here.” – Jett Lawrence

Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“…after that incident when I crashed in the Heat it was good to rebound and get a good start; and yeah, it was a great ride. I felt awesome… I made a few mistakes in the beginning and that gap [to Jett] got there and then I felt like I did a good job maintaining that. We played cat and mouse and I know what it takes now to run that pace, so [I’m] pretty happy with tonight, solid second. He’s a hell of a competitor, a great rider, so we’ll try to be better for next week… It feels great to be back up here on the box. [When asked what it’s going to take to close the points gap] Who knows! This season’s been crazy, so I think there’s still a lot of guys that are capable of getting in the mix. So for me, I’ve just got to keep having rides like tonight, but one position better.” – Cooper Webb

Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“I’m really, really happy with how I rode. I’ve just got to get better off the gate. I’ve been putting a lot of practice starts in at home, but ultimately, I’ve got to start further up front. Being 11th [at the beginning of the Main Event] is not the position you want to be in if you want to fight for a win. But I made some really good passes happen and found myself in third; and I was pretty close behind Cooper and Jett, but I ended up not doing – I just couldn’t find the right line in that one rhythm over here and so I ended up doubling my way through and lost a bunch of time. But I had a good gap to the people behind me. So I’m really happy to be just finally back on the box, that was important.” – Ken Roczen

Round 4 of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class saw Tom Vialle take over the lead on the opening lap and never get challenged for the top spot; the win moved him into the championship points lead. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo took over second place just a minute into the 15-minute plus one lap race to earn his third consecutive second-place finish of the season. After going through the LCQ, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker recovered from a start outside of the top five to grab the final spot on the Birmingham podium.

First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“Grabbing another win, I didn’t expect it. I felt great all day and I had a good heat race… I didn’t have the best start, but I caught all the guys and I was P-1. [Then I just tried to] do some good laps and be consistent all moto. I tried to save [energy for] the last four or five laps and [it] was great. I love the track and we were lucky with the weather [and so] the track was pretty good and I’m really happy. Another win, taking the red plate, and I mean, it’s been a long time [that] I didn’t win two races in a row, [not] since I was back in the GPs. So I feel good and it’s nice to win, I can tell you.” – Tom Vialle

Second place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“This track was, I think we say it almost every weekend now, but it was gnarly. Like, we got almost two inches of rain last night and it was just very technical, it kept you on your toes, so I’m excited to be up here on the podium again. I’m just so grateful to be racing again and fighting for wins, fighting for the podium, in the championship battle – this stuff is so special, so I’m grateful to be up here; I want more, I really want to win, so we’re gonna work hard and come out swinging in Indiana again… [to the crowd] And how about Alabama!? This is my first time here and you guys are all so nice. I love it here. You guys are awesome so thanks everyone, we love this.” – Cameron McAdoo

Third place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

“It’s definitely not ideal [to] start from the outside but I made it work. In the LCQ I pulled a hellova start and then in [the Main Event I] just kind of did the same thing. But I feel like those other guys on the inside had a little better of a jump [and had] the line going to the inside. But overall, I charged up to the front. I was just trying my hardest. I had a rough start to the night with that heat race crash and yeah, there was a lot of things that I wanted to say but, you know, I just kept my cool. You know, it’s important for me just to focus on myself and go out there and execute my laps; and I feel like I did that well. I’ve got to give it up to my whole team… just everyone for helping me, especially keeping me calm… [I’m] just super stoked to be up here on the podium again and, yeah, had a good time.” – Seth Hammaker

Next weekend the championship heads to Indianapolis, Indiana where Round 10 of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will line the racers up inside Lucas Oil Stadium. The 17-round Monster Energy Supercross season also pays points toward the 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship. The SuperMotocross League, after an incredibly successful inaugural year in 2023, brings together the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross Championship. The SMX League then delivers post-season racing with two Playoff Rounds and one Final to crown a SuperMotocross World Champion in both the 450cc and 250cc Classes. Last week the dates and venues for the post-season events were announced:

The Monster Energy AMA Supercross season, now completing its mid-point race, continues its partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Fans who want to contribute towards the St. Jude mission of, Finding Cures. Saving Children, can donate by going to supercrossLIVE.com/St-Jude or text “SUPER” to 785-833.

1	18	Jett Lawrence	Landsborough, Australia	Honda CRF450R	1	X	23	1	25
2	2	Cooper Webb	Newport, NC	Yamaha YZ450F	2	–	0	2	22
3	94	Ken Roczen	Mattstedt, Germany	Suzuki RM-Z450	3	–	0	3	20
4	1	Chase Sexton	LaMoille, IL	KTM 450 SX-F FE	4	–	0	4	18
5	32	Justin Cooper	Cold Springs Harbor, NY	Yamaha YZ450F	5	–	0	5	17
6	21	Jason Anderson	Rio Rancho, NM	Kawasaki KX450SR	6	–	0	6	16
7	3	Eli Tomac	Cortez, CO	Yamaha YZ450F	7	–	0	7	15
8	7	Aaron Plessinger	Hamilton, OH	KTM 450 SX-F FE	8	–	0	8	14
9	51	Justin Barcia	Monroe, NY	GASGAS MC 450F	9	–	0	9	13
10	27	Malcolm Stewart	Haines City, FL	Husqvarna FC 450 RE	10	–	0	10	12
11	12	Shane McElrath	Oakland, FL	Suzuki RM-Z450	11	–	0	11	11
12	45	Colt Nichols	Muskogee, Oklahoma	Beta 450 RX	13	–	0	12	9
13	67	Benny Bloss	Oak Grove, MO	Beta 450 RX	14	–	0	13	8
14	82	Mitchell Harrison	Brighton, MI	Kawasaki KX450	15	–	0	14	7
15	100	Anthony Bourdon	Hossegor, France	Suzuki RM-Z450	16	–	0	15	6
16	9	Adam Cianciarulo	New Smyrna Beach, FL	Kawasaki KX450SR	12	–	0	16	5
17	11	Kyle Chisholm	Tampa, FL	Suzuki RM-Z450	17	–	0	17	5
18	22	Freddie Noren	Lidköping, Sweden	Kawasaki KX450SR	18	–	0	18	4
19	109	Aaron Tanti	Brisbane, Australia	Kawasaki KX450	19	–	0	19	3
20	23	Grant Harlan	Decatur, TX	Yamaha YZ450F	20	–	0	20	2
21	199	John Short	Pilot Point, TX	Kawasaki KX450	21	–	0	21	1
22	14	Dylan Ferrandis	Bedarrides, France	Honda CRF450R	22	–	0	22	0

Points

1	18	Jett Lawrence	Landsborough, Australia	4.4	4	104	3.3	4	185
2	2	Cooper Webb	Newport, NC	6.9	1	5	4.2	2	172
3	1	Chase Sexton	LaMoille, IL	6.8	2	30	4.6	1	165
4	3	Eli Tomac	Cortez, CO	4.9	0	14	5.2	0	159
5	94	Ken Roczen	Mattstedt, Germany	3.4	2	27	5.8	1	153
6	21	Jason Anderson	Rio Rancho, NM	7.5	0	13	6.0	0	147
7	7	Aaron Plessinger	Hamilton, OH	4.0	0	15	6.6	1	146
8	32	Justin Cooper	Cold Springs Harbor, NY	9.4	1	0	7.6	0	108
9	14	Dylan Ferrandis	Bedarrides, France	8.8	0	0	10.2	0	107
10	51	Justin Barcia	Monroe, NY	11.6	0	0	11.6	0	95
11	27	Malcolm Stewart	Haines City, FL	6.4	0	0	11.8	0	91
12	96	Hunter Lawrence	Landsborough, Australia	10.5	0	0	7.4	0	87
13	12	Shane McElrath	Oakland, FL	15.9	0	0	13.7	0	75
14	9	Adam Cianciarulo	New Smyrna Beach, FL	14.2	0	0	6.3	0	48
15	15	Dean Wilson	Glasgow, Scotland	14.4	0	0	12.0	0	46
16	111	Jorge Prado	Lugo, Spain	9.3	0	0	4.8	0	45
17	67	Benny Bloss	Oak Grove, MO	14.7	0	0	12.6	0	41
18	28	Christian Craig	San Diego, CA	12.8	0	0	10.3	0	39
19	11	Kyle Chisholm	Tampa, FL	18.6	0	0	11.1	0	32
20	46	Justin Hill	Yoncalla, OR	17.4	0	0	11.4	0	29

250

1	16	Tom Vialle	Avignon, France	KTM 250 SX-F FE	1	–	17	1	25
2	63	Cameron Mcadoo	Sioux City, IA	Kawasaki KX250	2	–	0	2	22
3	43	Seth Hammaker	Bainbridge, PA	Kawasaki KX250	3	–	0	3	20
4	39	Pierce Brown	Sandy, UT	GASGAS MC 250F	4	–	0	4	18
5	6	Jeremy Martin	Millville, MN	Yamaha YZ250F	5	X	0	5	17
6	33	Jalek Swoll	Belleview, FL	Triumph TF 250-X	6	–	0	6	16
7	59	Daxton Bennick	Morganton, NC	Yamaha YZ250F	7	–	0	7	15
8	69	Coty Schock	Dover, DE	Yamaha YZ250F	8	–	0	8	14
9	38	Haiden Deegan	Temecula, CA	Yamaha YZ250F	9	–	0	9	13
10	48	Chance Hymas	Pocatello, ID	Honda CRF250R	10	–	0	10	12
11	65	Henry Miller	Rochester, MN	Honda CRF250R	11	–	0	11	11
12	75	Marshal Weltin	Ubly, MI	Yamaha YZ250F	12	–	0	12	10
13	90	Hardy Munoz	Orlando, FL	Kawasaki KX250	13	–	0	13	9
14	483	Bryton Carroll	Vineland, NJ	Yamaha YZ250F	14	–	0	14	8
15	128	Preston Boespflug	Battle Ground, WA	Suzuki RM-Z250	15	–	0	15	7
16	602	Gage Linville	Lake Park, GA	GASGAS MC 250F FE	16	–	0	16	6
17	93	Bryce Shelly	Telford, PA	Yamaha YZ250F	17	–	0	17	5
18	296	Ryder Floyd	Paris, TX	Honda CRF250R	18	–	0	18	4
19	208	Logan Leitzel	Dillsburg, PA	Kawasaki KX250	19	–	0	19	3
20	435	Marcus Phelps	Johannesburg, South Africa	KTM 250 SX-F	20	–	0	20	2
21	37	Max Anstie	London, England	Honda CRF250R	21	–	0	21	1
22	964	Dominique Thury	Schneeberg, Germany	Kawasaki KX250	22	–	0	22	0

SEASON STATISTICS

1	16	Tom Vialle	74
2	63	Cameron Mcadoo	73
3	39	Pierce Brown	69
4	38	Haiden Deegan	62
5	69	Coty Schock	62
6	43	Seth Hammaker	59
7	59	Daxton Bennick	59
8	37	Max Anstie	53
9	65	Henry Miller	48
10	33	Jalek Swoll	47
11	48	Chance Hymas	46
12	75	Marshal Weltin	45
13	64	Austin Forkner	27
14	6	Jeremy Martin	27
15	83	Guillem Farres	27
16	511	Nicholas Romano	27
17	602	Gage Linville	22
18	483	Bryton Carroll	17
19	128	Preston Boespflug	16
20	174	Trevor Colip	11
21	86	Luca Marsalisi	10
22	90	Hardy Munoz	10
23	296	Ryder Floyd	10
24	682	Izaiah Clark	10
25	92	Jace Kessler	8
26	60	Lorenzo Locurcio	8
27	93	Bryce Shelly	5
28	80	Michael Hicks	4
29	247	Brock Papi	3
30	208	Logan Leitzel	3
31	177	Tyler Stepek	3
32	435	Marcus Phelps	2
33	58	Cullin Park	2
34	964	Dominique Thury	2
35	242	Garrett Hoffman	1
36	751	Evan Ferry	0

Anstie wins his first AMA Supercross

admineaserm — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 20:30:47 +0000

Briton Max Anstie rode through horrendous conditions to take his first ever AMA Supercross main event win – beating both Hunter and Jett Lawrence to do it.

Justin Barcia captured lightning in a bottle and took the win at Round 14 of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season in front of die-hard fans who braved rain and a thunderstorm delay.

Fireworks and dry ground gave way to thunderclouds and thick mud at a thrilling mudder inside MetLife Stadium. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac finished second on the rain-drenched and deep-rutted track inside MetLife Stadium. Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen found enough track through the standing puddles to take home third place in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The riders earned points for both the Supercross season and also the inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship. In the season’s first of two East/West Showdowns, Fire Power Honda’s Max Anstie took his career-first win over the top racers from both regional divisions.

Justin Barcia was brilliant in the mud and earned his first win of the 2023 season. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

In an unprecedented weather delay, thunderclouds approaching MetLife Stadium required the racers on the starting line of the 250SX Class East/West Showdown to evacuate the starting area. The riders, along with every spectator in the stadium, retreated to cover for what turned out to be a 1.5 hour delay to the racing as the clouds dumped rain on the track. When the gate finally dropped for the 450SX Class Main Event, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson officially took the holeshot but it was Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton who immediately established himself as the race leader.

The deep mud and chaotic first lap shuffle saw Barcia jump into the lead for a moment before Ken Roczen took it over. Barcia dropped back to third, but before the first pass through the whoops Barcia cut under Sexton. The two bikes made light contact and Sexton went down as half the pack raced past him. Roczen stretched out his lead; just two and a half minutes into the race he held a three second gap over Barcia in the abbreviated 17-minute plus one lap race.

Points leader Eli Tomac quickly established himself in third place ahead of Yamaha Truck Central LLC’s Benny Bloss, Fire Power Honda’s Dean Wilson, and Next Level Racing KTM’s Kevin Moranz. Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb was fighting his way up from seventh place and Sexton had recovered from his tip over and ran eighth. Less than four minutes in, the top three, Roczen, Barcia, and Tomac, had separated from the field while Sexton and Webb scrapped for fifth.

Sexton quickly moved past Webb and set his sights on Bloss in fourth place. Barcia’s wide-open riding style agreed with the brutal conditions, and six minutes into the race he was on Roczen. Barcia made the identical move on Roczen that he used on Sexton, but when Barcia took over the top spot Roczen stayed upright. From there Barcia pulled steadily away while Tomac inched closer to Roczen. Sexton was into fourth, but 23 seconds back from Tomac, with Webb in fifth 24 seconds back from Sexton. The race action was with Tomac.

The Yamaha rider got to Roczen’s rear fender with just over three minutes left on the race clock. After an exciting battle, Roczen tipped over in the whoops and Tomac took over the spot. Roczen was quickly back up without being in danger of losing the podium-place position. From there the riders individually fought the track and did their best to preserve their motorcycles in the mud. Barcia took the win, his first since Houston 2021. Tomac earned second place, and stretched his points lead to 11 over Cooper Webb. Roczen carded his fourth podium finish of the season with a third.

Max Anstie brought back his early-season speed and turned it into an exciting East/West Showdown win inside MetLife Stadium. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

The East/West Showdown was a thrilling race that was worth the wait of the weather delay. Max Anstie grabbed the holeshot on the rain-drenched track. Red Bull KTM’s Max Vohland was in second with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire right behind.

The Lawrence brothers were up front and after one muddy lap Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence ran in fourth and Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence held fifth. The race made history as the first showdown of brothers who each led their division, but those brothers sat outside the top three at the start of the race. Almost three minutes into the race, which was shortened to 12-minutes plus one lap, Jett Lawrence took advantage of a Hampshire mistake and took over third place.

Three minutes later Jett Lawrence was pressuring Vohland for second as Anstie stretched out his lead to over six seconds. Hampshire applied pressure to take over third, but Jett Lawrence broke free from him again and got around Vohland for second place. Four and a half minutes remained on the race clock. Hampshire was quickly around Vohland and chasing after Jett Lawrence. Hunter Lawrence soon pressured Vohland for the spot as Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan closed on them both. With just over two minutes left, Anstie held a nine second lead while Deegan crashed trying to cut under Hunter Lawrence.

In the closing minutes Jett Lawrence put in an amazing drive. He erased Anstie’s lead down to .9 seconds as they headed out on the final lap. Jett lost touch tossing his goggles but with a final surge pulled alongside Anstie in their last pass through the whoops. Anstie had the inside line in the next corner and accelerated back into the lead heading into the final corner. Hampshire was still close to Jett Lawrence and charged hard to that last corner. Hampshire tried to scrub speed and duck underneath but slid out in a dramatic splash. The crash tripped Jett and his bike over onto Hampshire’s bike.

Jett was quick to pull his bike free and accelerate away just as his brother entered the corner. At the end Anstie took his first-ever Supercross win, Jett Lawrence got going in time to hold onto second place, and Hunter Lawrence crossed just behind his brother in third.

Round 15 delivers a rare day-race inside Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. on Saturday, April 29. The race will pay points to both the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross season as well as the all-new 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship. Every race is streamed live on Peacock, with NBC, USA Network, and CNBC broadcasting select rounds.

450SX Class podium (racers left to right) Eli Tomac, Justin Barcia, and Ken Roczen. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results
1. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS2. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha3. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki4. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda5. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM6. Shane McElrath, Oakland, Fla., Suzuki7. Kevin Moranz, Topeka, Kans., KTM8. Benny Bloss, Oak Grove, Mo., Yamaha9. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., KTM10. Dean Wilson, Menifee, Calif., Honda

450SX Class Championship Standings1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (315)2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (304)3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (294)4. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS (265)5. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (259)6. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (225)7. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (213)8. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (155)9. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., KTM (154)10. Christian Craig, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (150)

250SX Class podium (racers left to right) Jett Lawrence, Max Anstie, and Hunter Lawrence. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

East/West Showdown Results1. Max Anstie, Cairo, Ga., Honda (East)2. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda (West)3. Hunter Lawrence, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Honda (East)4. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM (West)5. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha (West)6. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (East)7. Carson Mumford, Simi Valley, Calif., Kawasaki (West)8. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda (East)9. Jo Shimoda, Menifee, Calif., Kawasaki (East)10. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki (East)

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings1. Hunter Lawrence, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Honda (198)2. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (149)3. Max Anstie, Cairo, Ga., Honda (148)4. Nate Thrasher, Livingston, Tenn., Yamaha (120)5. Jordon Smith, Ochlocknee, Ga., Yamaha (120)6. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki (117)7. Jeremy Martin, Rochester, Minn., Yamaha (111)8. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda (96)9. Tom Vialle, Murrieta, Calif., KTM (95)10. Coty Schock, Dover, Del., Honda (83)

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda (176)2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna (137)3. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha (118)4. Levi Kitchen, Havana, Fla., Yamaha (112)5. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM (104)6. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki (101)7. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda (99)8. Pierce Brown, Sandy, Utah, GASGAS (98)9. Cole Thompson, Brigden, Ont., Yamaha (73)10. Derek Kelley, Riverside, Calif., KTM (70)

Anstie on AMA Supercross podium

admineaserm — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 14:29:02 +0000

Eli Tomac returned to his winning ways, holding firm through a dramatic Round 5 of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross. Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton had the lead in his sights but had to settle for second inside NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. And Briton Max Anstie out his Honda on the podium in second place in his first East Coast 250 round

Houston has hosted a round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross series for 46 years. NRG Stadium lights up during opening ceremonies. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson took the final podium position in the event that paid points to both the 17-round Supercross season as well as the inaugural 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship. In the opening round of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class, Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence earned the win with a performance that should have his competition worried.

Eli Tomac looked to be in trouble early in the Houston Main Event but found more speed to earn his third win of the 2023 season. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc. When the gate dropped for the 450SX Class Main Event, defending champion Eli Tomac jumped out into the lead with Red Bull KTM’s Aaron Plessinger pressuring him from the start. But 3:25 into the 20-minute plus one lap race, a crashed rider necessitated a red flag and a temporary stop to the action.

The rules called for a unique staggered re-start. The racers were lined up, one after the other according to their race order, then thrown back into battle with the wave of a green flag. The starting position order was Tomac, Plessinger, Anderson, Sexton, and Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb, but once back underway Anderson quickly took over second place. Sexton was around Plessinger shortly after and with 13:05 remaining on the race clock Sexton got into the second-place spot.

Premiere class athletes staged for the staggered start after a red flag stopped the race due to a downed racer. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

After Sexton had demonstrated his speed on the Houston track by qualifying first by over a full second, and also catching and beating Tomac in their Heat Race, it looked like the Texas crowd would see a fight for the lead. But Tomac found some extra speed; he put in laps fast enough to stave off Sexton’s early charge. The gap between the two was 1.6 seconds, but soon Sexton was putting in the fastest laps of any rider on the track.

When the clock ticked past 6:30 remaining, Sexton had whittled the lead down to just half a second and appeared to be looking for a line around Tomac. But Tomac held tough. The two-time and defending Supercross champion didn’t falter under the pressure. After about one lap with Sexton right on him, Tomac pulled back out enough breathing room to ride his own lines.

Behind them, Anderson and Plessinger held steady while Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia found a way around Cooper Webb for fifth, yet Webb took the spot back before the checkered flag. Tomac scored his third win of 2023 and stretched out his points lead. Sexton nearly backed up his win from the previous round; he kept the bike on two wheels and earned second place points, securing second in the 17-round championship standings.

Hunter Lawrence (96), the favorite going into the opening Eastern Regional 250SX Class round, established himself as the racer to beat with a convincing win. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

In Eastern Regional 250SX Class racing Hunter Lawrence grabbed the Holeshot but within a few turns Frenchman Red Bull KTM’s Tom Vialle slid from third into the lead. Vialle, the two-time and reigning MXGP MX2 class Motocross World Champion, found himself leading not only his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross, but his first race ever in America. Hunter fought back on the opening lap but misjudged his launch off a triple jump and sent his Honda off the track. Lawrence made an incredible high-speed save through the track-lining Tuff Blox and rejoined the race only losing one position.

Team Honda HRC’s Chance Hymas found himself in second place. The Rookie put immediate pressure on Vialle. But before two minutes had run off the clock in the 15-minute plus one lap Main Event Lawrence had re-taken second from Hymas. Shortly after that pass Hymas had trouble and Fire Power Honda’s Max Anstie took over the third place spot with Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Jeremy Martin, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Jordon Smith, and rookie Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan right behind. Deegan was in his first pro race after competing in the SX Futures class just one week prior.

Smith reeled in Anstie and pressured for the position until he crashed in the sand. With five minutes left on the race clock the top three seemed comfortably in their spots. It was an Australian, Brit, and a Frenchman looking to make the opening Eastern Regional race an international podium. But in the final laps Smith put on a charge, getting around Martin right before Vialle crashed in one of the track’s bowl turns. Martin then crashed on the final lap, and the opening round of the Eastern Regional Series ended with Lawrence crossing the finish line in first, Anstie in second, Smith earning a hard-fought third place, and Haiden Deegan grabbing fourth in his first professional race.

The racers face off again next weekend at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida for Round 6 of the 450SX Class and the second round of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class. The event pays points to each class for both the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season as well as towards the ultimate title, the 2023 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship series which combines Supercross, Pro Motocross, and two SMX Playoffs and Final for an all-new title with a $10 million-dollar total purse. All 2023 Monster Energy Supercross and SuperMotocross World Championship series rounds are available to watch live on Peacock.

Select races are also broadcast on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. For highlight videos and more information on the racers, results, and tickets to upcoming rounds please visit SupercrossLIVE.com.

450SX Class podium (racers left to right) Chase Sexton, Eli Tomac, and Jason Anderson. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha2. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda3. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki4. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM5. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM6. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS7. Justin Cooper, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha8. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki9. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki10. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki
450SX Class Championship Standings1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (95)2. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (88)3. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (83)4. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (76)5. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (73)6. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS (65)7. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (64)8. Dylan Ferrandis, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (56)9. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (56)10. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki (53)

250SX Class podium (riders left to right) Jordon Smith, Hunter Lawrence, and Max Anstie. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Results1. Hunter Lawrence, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Honda2. Max Anstie, Cairo, Ga., Honda3. Jordon Smith, Ochlocknee, Ga., Yamaha4. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha5. Jeremy Martin, Rochester, Minn., Yamaha6. Michael Mosiman, Minneaola, Fla., GASGAS7. Tom Vialle, Murrieta, Calif., KTM8. Chance Hymas, Pocatello, Idaho, Honda9. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda10. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki
Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings1. Hunter Lawrence, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Honda (26)2. Max Anstie, Cairo, Ga., Honda (23)3. Jordon Smith, Ochlocknee, Ga., Yamaha (21)4. Haiden Deegan, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (19)5. Jeremy Martin, Rochester, Minn., Yamaha (18)6. Michael Mosiman, Minneaola, Fla., GASGAS (17)7. Tom Vialle, Murrieta, Calif., KTM (16)8. Chance Hymas, Pocatello, Idaho, Honda (15)9. Cullin Park, Clermont, Fla., Honda (14)10. Chris Blose, Phoenix, Ariz., Kawasaki (13)

Anstie checks out Cardiff stadium

admineaserm — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 09:56:12 +0000

As the countdown to the very first FIM World Supercross Championship Grand Prix, taking place at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff begins, Honda Genuine Honda Racing rider, Max Anstie, flew in from the U.S last week to visit the stadium ahead of the first Supercross race on 8th October.

One of two home heroes competing in the 2022 World Supercross British Grand Prix, Anstie returned to the UK to visit the stadium that he last raced at when he was just nine years old.

“Coming here has really stirred the memories”, said Anstie. “I was last here as a kid on a 65cc bike, so to come back here competing for a World Championship title is super special. When the first round was announced, my mother immediately phoned me from her home in Wales, telling me how excited she was. And that enthusiasm is really spreading, I’ve had so many friends and fans contact me to say they’re coming. It’s going to be mega.”

Joining a new team ahead of the opening round, Anstie originally from Newbury, England will race in the SX2 class aboard a CRF250R, for the Honda Genuine Honda Racing Team.

Talking about his hopes for the opening round, Anstie continued. “This is such a big thing. The Championship is full of talent, which genuinely makes it hard for me to pick out a rival I expect to be battling with in Cardiff. What I do know is that this is a World Championship and nobody will be here to make up the numbers. Competition will be fierce and I need to be on my game. I’m training harder than ever and I’ll be back in Florida getting as much time on the bike as I can before we come back in October. I genuinely cannot wait for the gate to drop on the 8th October.”

Fans visiting Cardiff will not only witness the very best supercross racers in the world do battle, with the likes of Ken Roczen, Chad Reed and Eli Tomac going bar to bar, but will also get to see two-time Brit nominated, multi-platinum selling artist, AJ Tracey perform too, making it a night of unmissable action and entertainment.

Tickets for the opening round of the 2022 FIM World Supercross Championship are on general sale and available from www.livenation.co.uk / www.ticketmaster.co.uk

About FIM World Supercross Championship

The FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) is a comprehensive global championship led by SX Global in Australia. The world governing body for motorcycle sport, Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), awarded SX Global the exclusive organizational and commercial rights to stage and promote the World Supercross Championship commencing in 2022. The global championship represents the most progressive and ambitious platform to elevate the sport of supercross and expand its appeal across the globe. WSX will follow the established two-class format, with each independently owned team fielding four riders – two in the WSX (450cc) class, and two in the SX2 (250cc) class with a prize purse of up to USD$250,000 at each event. With more than $50 million allocated over the first five years, the global championship features an unprecedented level of financial support for teams and riders, including seed funding for every team awarded a license, appearance fees at every event, and logistics and freight support. The independent team ownership model, similar to that of F1 and NASCAR, will expand opportunities for global and local sponsors. WSX will offer an elevated experience for fans, through unique race formats, broadcast innovations, and in-stadium attractions that elevate the overall entertainment experience.

About SX Global

Based in Australia, SX Global is a collective of world class sports marketing and entertainment experts who operate globally within the motorsports and entertainment industries. Considered the ‘founding father’ of the modern era of Australian motor racing, Tony Cochrane leads the SX Global team as president, bringing more than 45 years of experience in developing and managing successful motorsports series and events. Managing Directors, Adam Bailey, a former competitive rider, and Ryan Sanderson, bring extensive proven experience in supercross event development, management, and promotion after five years of successfully delivering the largest action sports and supercross event in the Southern Hemisphere, the AUS-X Open.

Anstie heads Honda 250 team for Global SX

admineaserm — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 14:38:55 +0000

Honda Genuine Honda Racing, led by motocross and supercross veteran Yarrive Konsky and managed by former racing star, Martin Davalos, is proud to announce the signing of Max Anstie and Wilson Todd as their riders competing in SX2 (250cc) for the FIM-sanctioned World Supercross Championship’s pilot season. The championship will kick off with the WSX British Grand Prix at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales on Saturday 8 October.

Anstie, a 10-year-plus powerhouse of motocross racing, is currently on a three-race stint in the Pro Motocross series and recently posted an impressive sixth-place finish at the Southwick National aboard the team’s CRF450R. As he continues to build his racing resume, Anstie is sure to be a formidable 250cc competitor in the SX2 class. Born in Newbury, England, the FIM World Supercross Championship’s first Grand Prix is in Anstie’s backyard giving him additional motivation as he competes for a podium in front of thousands of fans watching in stadium and millions watching worldwide.

“I’m very excited to be racing for Yarrive, Martin and the Honda Genuine Honda Racing team competing for an FIM-sanctioned world championship. It’s the chance of a lifetime, and I’m thrilled to be a part of a race team with a rich history in the sport,” said Anstie. “Growing up in England, I dreamt of competing in front of my friends, family and thousands of die-hard supercross fans, and now I have that opportunity in Cardiff, so I’ll be ready to take advantage and am looking forward to competing.”

Rounding out Honda Genuine Honda Racing’s SX2 class is Australian rider, Wilson Todd. New to the Honda team, Todd brings a wealth of racing experience, including Motocross Grand Prix and Australian Supercross, that will serve him and the team well in their efforts to win an FIM World Supercross Championship during this year’s WSX pilot season. An announcement of the WSX (450cc) riders to finalize the team’s lineup is forthcoming.

“We’re excited to get our SX2 riders locked in as we embark on this unprecedented global competition in the FIM World Supercross Championship and believe Max and Wilson will compete at the highest level and provide our team with a chance to claim a World Supercross Championship,” said Yarrive Konsky, owner of the Honda Genuine Honda Racing team. “Max and Wilson are consummate professionals who will lead by example and provide our team the necessary tenacity and experience to compete on a global level. We’re excited about the prospects of our two WSX riders and believe they will solidify a formidable lineup to compete in the FIM World Supercross Championship.”

The FIM World Supercross Championship recently announced tickets were on sale for the first Grand Prix at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, which can be found here. The FIM World Supercross Championship 2022 will serve as a pilot season, allowing the championship to establish itself and build momentum going into 2023. From 2023, and subsequent years, the FIM World Supercross Championship expand annually between June and November, with up to 12 events in 2023.

About FIM World Supercross Championship
The FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX) is a comprehensive global championship led by SX Global in Australia. The world governing body for motorcycle sport, Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), awarded SX Global the exclusive organizational and commercial rights to stage and promote the World Supercross Championship commencing in 2022. The global championship represents the most progressive and ambitious platform to elevate the sport of supercross and expand its appeal across the globe. WSX will follow the established two-class format, with each independently owned team fielding four riders – two in the WSX (450cc) class, and two in the SX2 (250cc) class with a prize purse of up to USD$250,000 at each event. With more than $50 million allocated over the first five years, the global championship features an unprecedented level of financial support for teams and riders, including seed funding for every team awarded a license, appearance fees at every event, and logistics and freight support. The independent team ownership model, similar to that of F1 and NASCAR, will expand opportunities for global and local sponsors. WSX will offer an elevated experience for fans, through unique race formats, broadcast innovations, and in-stadium attractions that elevate the overall entertainment experience.

About SX Global
Based in Australia, SX Global is a collective of world class sports marketing and entertainment experts who operate globally within the motorsports and entertainment industries. Considered the ‘founding father’ of the modern era of Australian motor racing, Tony Cochrane leads the SX Global team as president, bringing more than 45 years of experience in developing and managing successful motorsports series and events. Managing Directors, Adam Bailey, a former competitive rider, and Ryan Sanderson, bring extensive proven experience in supercross event development, management, and promotion after five years of successfully delivering the largest action sports and supercross event in the southern hemisphere, the AUS-X Open.

Where now for Anstie?

admineaserm — Sat, 09 Apr 2022 10:30:56 +0000

Briton Max Anstie and his team-mate Shake McElrath are planning to make their comeback from injury at tonight’s St.Louis Supercross but the future of the team is looking uncertain as the main sponsor Rocky Mountain ATV/MC are out.

It’s believed the team will now resort back to its original name, BBMX – Butler Brothers MX which is owned by Forrest Butler. Butler says the team will race tonight.

Other reports say Anstie, McElrath and the squad have had their employment terminated by the team and some of the suspension equipment taken back by suppliers. We’ll have to see what happens tonight in the USA!

Butler has stated:

No, BBMX is NOT going out of business / folding / or anything of the sort.
Yes, BBMX will 100% be in St. Louis (in fact the Semi and some staff are already there).
Yes, BBMX is fully IN for the remainder of the Monster Energy Supercross Series.
Yes, BBMX is fully IN for the entire Lucas Oil Pro Motocross National’s.

Yes – We have had a change within the BBMX sponsor wise, as we are no longer affiliated with Rocky Mountain ATV/MC. We do have a new Title Sponsor in line, and we will be announcing them in near time. None the less and again as spoken above, BBMX is still 100% in business.

As per our Riders, both Shane McElrath and Max Anstie will be returning this weekend in St. Louis, back from injuries. Joey Savatgy is continuing to heal up nicely from his total ACL repair done following round 3 of the San Diego SX, and is currently expected to make his return by the start of Outdoors.

Photo Align With Us.

Anstie joins Rocky Mountain KTM

admineaserm — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 09:53:36 +0000

After two years in the USA with HEP Suzuki, Briton Max Anstie has signed for the Rocky Mountain KTM team for 2022. Check out the full video announcement right here! He joins Joey Savagty and Shane McElrath in the super-strong team.

Anstie and Wilson both on the sick list

admineaserm — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 15:25:02 +0000

American-based Brits Max Anstie and Dean Wilson have both revealed they are ill and will miss the rest of the US season. Anstie has caight Covis while Wilson has Bpstein-Barr virus.

Anstie said: “Ok… spanner to the plan or wrench in the works – I’m positive for COVID. I felt good all week but now I feel like I have been run over by a bus so that’s me out of action until I feel better! “

And Wilson said: “Not the news I wanted to put out but for my well being it’s the best case.
I as well as the team have decided to take time off due to the EBV virus I have been battling all summer. I showed up and pushed through it each race but there comes a point you will keep digging yourself a deeper hole. Even though I was cranking out top 10s I was still no where I should be. But anyways going to take this time to rest & get my energy/blood levels back where they need to be. Thank you all for the support!”

Anstie on his Daytona Supercross ride

admineaserm — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 10:59:14 +0000

Suzuki riders delivered solid performances at the Tri-Oval at Daytona International Speedway in Florida at the Monster Energy AMA/ FIM World Supercross ninth round on Saturday that marked the 700th event in the series history.

Anstie at Daytona

Twisted Tea/ H.E.P. Motorsports/ Suzuki’s Max Anstie improved on his debut premier class result aboard his Suzuki RM-Z450 a fortnight ago in Orlando, while teammate Brandon Hartranft continued his great starts on his Suzuki RM-Z450 and delivered a strong ride on the challenging track.

Rookie 250-class racer Dilan Schwartz had a tough night but spent time up front in his heat race on his BarX/ Chaparral/ ECSTAR Suzuki RM-Z250.

British-born Anstie bettered his finish at the previous round in his second 450 class Supercross appearance: The sand specialist looked and felt at home on the hybrid Supercross-Motocross track that combined high speed sections with steep jump faces. ‘Mad Max’s’ finish bumped him up three positions in the points standings after entering the series at the second Orlando round and unable to race because of injury from the start of the series.

Said Anstie: “It’s always been a dream to race the Daytona Supercross with the best guys in the world. The team made progress all day and we learned a lot. I rode my laps in the main event and came away with a 14th. I’m looking forward to heading to Texas next week.”

Anstie enjoyed his Daytona debut

Also competing in his rookie 450 class season, Hartranft started the day strong as the second fastest racer in both of his qualifying sessions. He was able to capitalise on a fantastic jump and drive down the start straight in his heat race to transfer into the main event with a promising gate pick. In the main, he put in competitive laps against seasoned class veterans.

“I had more of a flow here all day.” Hartranft said. “My heat race start was dialled. I came around in second. My main event started from the outside. I went in well, but I got pushed off the track. During the main I was pretty solid until about the halfway point, then I got a bit of arm pump. I just need to work on preventing that, train hard during the week, and show up to Arlington ready to go.”

Rookie Schwartz was running up front in his 250 West heat race, fighting for a top-five track position before the race was red-flagged and re-started. Schwartz then got another strong start and came out of the second turn inside the top five. Unfortunately, he ran into trouble in the opening lap. His night ended early despite showing speed in qualifying and in his heat race battles against riders with multiple years in the class.

Said Schwartz: “I was feeling great throughout the whole day at Daytona, but unfortunately in the heat race I cross rutted in a rhythm section and ended up going down, which ended my night. I’m hoping to line up next weekend in Texas.”

“I think we made some good steps,” was Twisted Tea/ H.E.P. Motorsports/ Suzuki Team Manager Dustin Pipes’ take on the night. “Max had a good day and we’re building each week. We know that he’s not at his peak yet, but there’s a lot of plusses to take away. Brandon’s starting to find his groove again and it shows when you watch him out on the track. Look for him to keep on growing throughout these next few rounds. We are excited for the future.”

With the first nine rounds run, the series heads to Arlington, Texas for a triple-header before a two-weekend break, followed by a triple-header in Atlanta. The Suzuki riders and teams are ready for the challenges ahead to finish the season strong and deliver more great rides on their RM-Z race bikes.

Anstie to make 450SX debut tonight

admineaserm — Sat, 20 Feb 2021 11:30:37 +0000

Briton Max Anstie will make his 450 Supercross debut tonight in Orlando. The HEP Suzuki rider crashed two days before the opener in Houston, breaking a bone in his back. But he’s now back on the bike and ready to debut tonight.

“I got to spin some laps in Florida before my first 450 SX race tomorrow. Only had 2 proper days of riding since being back on the bike but gonna make the best of each time I’m out there. So excited to be under the lights,” he said on social media yesterday.