PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MotoConcepts Racing: ANAHEIM 2 SX Report
SPOKANE, WA (January 17, 2015) – The third round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross in Anaheim, CA hosted a track that would demand the very best from the world’s top Supercross riders. Featuring less than accommodating track conditions and a very technical grouping of rhythm sections, A2 presented what many riders agreed was a race filled with challenges. After a solid afternoon of practice Smartop MotoConcepts rider Mike Alessi (#800/450) was confident that with the backing of his team, he would be equipped to make his mark in the Main Event.
As the gate dropped for the start of the second 450 Heat race, Alessi was able to grab a third place start coming out of the first turn. He quickly made the pass on A. Short and K. Rusk that would garner him a first place position. Filled with unwavering focus and determination, Alessi was able to maintain his spot at the front of the pack, earning him a dominate Heat race win. With a perfect start to the night, the stars seemed to be in-lined for the #800 bike to make a run at a top 5 finish in the Main event.
However, the final race of the night presented its own unique set of challenges for the Smartop MotoConcepts team. After miss-timing the drop of the gate, the world’s greatest starter posted an uncharacteristic 12th place Holeshot in the Main Event. The struggles were only beginning as Alessi fell back into 21st place with little hope left in the night. With his back against the ropes, Alessi silenced his doubters and began passing multiple riders in pursuit of a top ten finish. With four laps to go Alessi had worked his way up to 10th place when tragedy struck. While ready to make a pass on Factory Kawasaki’s #18 D. Millsaps riding in 9th, Alessi landed wrong in a difficult rhythm section possibly tearing a ligament in his knee and ending his night with only 3 laps to go. Alessi and his team were extremely disappointed in the outcome of a hard fought Main event, especially after making such strong effort to work their way into the mix.
All in all, it was an impressive outing for the Smartop MotoConcepts team who was proud of their #800 bike despite failing to post a finish that was relevant to the way he rode. Alessi’s return for the fourth round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross in Oakland, CA. is still uncertain.
We wish to thank our sponsors including Smartop, JT Racing, FMF, Ohlins Suspension, MotoGraphics, Alpinestars, NorthWest Steel Fab, Boyesen, Dunlop, UFO, CV4, Leo Vince Carbon Products, Peg Armor, VP Fuels, Guts, DT1, MotoOptics, Works Connection, Galfer, Supersprox, Excel, Hinson, and Victorville MC Center.
Press Release Cred: Shauna Genova
