AARON PLESSINGER - GRIT 240 450SX

GRIT-240 | 450 SX

Aaron Plessinger had constructed one of the strongest seasons thus far in his career, as the round of Glendale came to fruition on Saturday. Experiencing victory, along with garnering numerous strong performances (while holding the red plate as well) would lead many to believe that "AP" could contend for the championship as the series moved closer to an eventual finalé. The Ohio native embodied the same intensity that was showcased at the previous rounds, and put forth a phenomenal effort in practice as he sped through the sand section(s) with tenacity. This led to the former 250 SX Champion being designated to the second heat race, where all on the line were striving for the highest main event gate choice. After the field then funneled into the opening bend, an array of lines were constructed by competitors of various brands amid the first rhythm section. Through the first lap, and second circuit they would go, where Plessinger had established his chassis within the first place residency while beginning to distance himself from Shane McElrath, Hunter Lawrence, and Jason Anderson. Eli Tomac was within that crowd of opponents, too, but "AP" wasn't worried about anything other than racing at the highest speeds possible! Through the mechanic's area left-handed corner he would float, flat-tracking his KTM chassis through the hard-packed terrain before leaping amongst the sand rollers...and his lines amongst the differing soil were spectacular, hopping while keeping the front-end of the machine line, all the while separating himself from the rest of the field. Though Jason Anderson would work his way into second, Plessinger's gap over those within the top-five was plentiful; and enough for him to look into the crowd with spectacularity while taking an eventual heat race win, continuing to build on the exceptional foundation he'd generated thus far in the series. Elbow to elbow, the world's top Supercross racers would fly into turn number one, where various seat hopping maneuvers, along with tripling combinations were conducted in the rhythm lane thereafter. There was little room for error at this point in the moto, however "AP" had managed to generate a runner-up standing that was just behind Ken; while constantly seeking for ways to pass the Suzuki rider! However, a bit too much pressure was applied to the front-end after only two minutes of action had transpired - crashing before the apex of a corner, amongst the switchbacks near the opening bend. Now well outside of the top ten the march to single digits was tireless and hard fought. Second by second, it would be urgent for Aaron to gain as much time on those ahead of him as possible. Passing the likes of Justin Cooper, Vince Friese, and Christian Craig when in the closing stages, the Ohio native's fight for points would be applaud worthy by all in attendance of the State Farm venue! Ultimately listed in tenth, he would be eager for redemption in the rounds that were on the horizon.

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