CHRISTIAN CRAIG | GRIT-209 | 450SX

CHRISTIAN CRAIG | GRIT-209 | SX 450

The opportunity to advance within this 450cc brigade was upon Christian Craig, where many could sense the demeanor of the longtime stand-out to be one of immense focus. His rather stoic look at times, would be noticed by members of the industry and opponents alike; reflecting an urgency to complete the task at hand, before clicking into gear in the first timed practice session. Attacking the triple just after the finish-line, the rear-end of his Husqvarnawould track to the outside of the right-handed corner while his steering stem combatted with twisting to the left of its own. The display of fluidity and aggression were one that were replicated all across the track, propelling him into the night show with applause from those in his corner. He then launched from the grate with the front-end of the Husqvarna hovering just inches from the ground, hoping to outlast his fellow comrades of the division with a surplus of momentum into the first corner. Residing near a position of sixth, there was ample time to develop a flow and hopefully latch onto fellow members of the overall championship chase. His movement atop the frame while leaping through the turning rhythm section was phenomenal, keeping the engine revving at an optimal degree all the while pushing the tank and subframe to the right (in order to shave air-time over the small doubles). That sequence could be repeated on a number of sections, but his definitive overtaking of the fifth-place position would occur in the latter whoop section on the final two laps; where his drive over the last six or so moguls was impeccable, and would aid his ability to retain a "top-five" (score) in the final standings. There wasn't anytime to waste, prior to beginning the finalé; where competitors were grasping for an advantage from the moment they rounded the first corner. This battlefield would be overcome with intense emotion, with machines darting every which way while cross-rutting and sliding into berms that lined the outskirt(s) of the raceway. Wheel-tapping his way over the dragon's back to the best of his ability, he would take note of Chase Sexton's line on the outside in the early stages, and proceed to mimic the Honda rider to the best of his ability as minutes continued to pass. His ability to remain focused on what was occurring in front of him, would be a catalyst to help him pull away from Joey Savatgy who trailed. Albeit a razor-thin gap, it was enough to generate ample breathing room as they sprinted into the eleventh and twelfth minute of action. Executing his way through the strenuous rhythm lane before the finish-line, his chassis would nearly compress to the fullest extent when landing atop the initial tabletop; and that process was one of constant repetition, with the final leg of the moto just around the corner. Decisively solidified in seventh, he could walk away from Oakland knowing he'd given it his all!

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