GRIT 301 — 450SX 8th — Aaron Plessinger

When competing for a prestigious finish within the top-ten, Aaron Plessinger knew that the quest to contend at the front of the pack was going to be fierce. Hard-fought rivalries ensued from the moment practice began on Saturday as racers within the Monster Energy Supercross Championship strove for the highest positions possible. The track was prepped to perfection for practice — and lines were immediately woven into the Southwestern soil. It was an intricate blend of sand and clay, with lines forming amongst the transitions, sweeping turns, rhythm lanes, and steep-berms alike. Nevertheless, his mentality wouldn't waver as he went alongside the best in the sport. In the heat race, he would acquire a standing of ninth before steadily working forward, mimicking the flow of Chase Sexton and ultimately claiming sixth at the finish. In the main event, he aspired to embody fortitude as the opening laps transpired, hovering around an approximate standing of eleventh. He simultaneously presented a plethora of fast laps — passing athletes including Vince Friese, while obtaining positions once held by Malcolm Stewart. Once into ninth, an incredible battle between he and Dylan Ferrandis ensued — with both riders giving it their all on the racetrack. Eventually, Plessinger made his way past on the ninth lap — and from that point onward, he would hound the rear wheel of Chase Sexton! Circuit by circuit, he continued to reach for the fender of the Kawasaki athlete. And though just short of overtaking the former champion, Plessinger's performance was admirable...and proved that he still possessed elite level speed, while securing a standing of eighth overall.