race recap
ELI TOMAC | GRIT-216 | 450SX
April 18, 2023 · Eli Tomac
ELI TOMAC | GRIT-216 | SX 450
Remaining a dominant force throughout the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series thus far, Yamaha's Eli Tomac would have his eyes set on heightening his points lead over both, Cooper Webb and Chase Sexton as action would begin in Atlanta. Though known for his prowess on the faster-paced Supercross circuits, Eli hadn't had the best of luck in the state of Georgia in year's past - though he was hoping to change that for 2023. By all means would the number one excel during practice, remaining on point and seeming to possess the necessary attributes to compete for a win by the time the checkered flag would arise for the finale. But first, he would have to go through action in the heat race; where Eli's start would be less than desired. Beginning his trek in fifth, he would have a bit of difficulty getting around Justin Hill as the two competed against one another amongst the inner portions of circuit; though Tomac's raw speed would eventually be enough to pass the number forty-six prior to beginning the third circuit. Now behind Jason Anderson, Justin Barcia, and Chase Sexton, there would be little room for error if he wanted to advance into the top-three by the time the checkered flag was thrown. But the speed of the top-three members of opposition would be incredible; where they were in their own realm and forced Tomac to settle for fourth by the time the five-lap quest would conclude. This preceded the main event, where Eli's start wasn't ideal, though he was only two positions behind Webb at the conclusion of the first lap. Running seventh, he would make his way past Adam Cianciarulo before locating his championship foe; truly coming into a few bike lengths of the rear fender with around thirteen and a-half minutes remaining on the clock. Eli was the hunter, stalking the adversary the crosshairs of his goggle lens as he pressed forward through every segment on the racetrack! Nearly making the move on a number of occasions as he sped to countless outsides, there was no doubt that Webb saw the blue fender out of his peripheral vision; but Cooper wasn't fazed, or at least didn't show that he was bothered by the presence of his rival. Tomac continued to push, exhibiting every ounce of effort possible while hoping to move past the KTM competitor. But it wasn't enough to break the willpower of Webb, and Tomac would be cemented in fifth prior to heading to round fourteen of the series next week.