GRIT 311 — SMX NEXT — 5th — Landon Gibson

With many of the amateur nationals now approaching in the summer months, many in the industry would begin to focus their efforts on preparing for the demanding, outdoor-style terrain. Though with an incredible thought-process within the two-wheel(ed) racing genre, Husqvarna's Landon Gibson's ability to stay present, while embarking on the one-of-a-kind track in Philadelphia, would be astounding. He was sensational throughout each lap of qualifying, and knew his trajectory amongst this Pennsylvania event was destined for greatness...regardless of how much precipitation fell. The native of Peachtree City, Georgia, was eager to display his skills on the muddy. stadium floor. Upon clicking into gear, Gibson charged onto the canvas and immediately strove a for top-tier position. He would register in an initial position of sixth, but moved forward following a slight mistake from Will Canaguier III. Gibson had been stellar on outdoor circuits in recent seasons, and his line selection was indicative of an athlete who could navigate amongst challenging grooves. While maneuvering his machine into various inside trenches, he then would make a charge to a higher standing in the running order - this time, while battling Carminati. With precision, an opportunity to definitively pass the oppoennt, arose on the fourth circuit. It was then, where a magnificent lap led to a higher position being secured! However, Jesson Turner Jr was charging forward with a competitive mindset

-and both he and Gibson would begin to battle on lap five! It was a hard-fought effort

by both opponents, though the Husqvarna athlete (i.e. Gibson) would descend to the fifth-place standing, with minimal time remaining. However, even when the track was arguably at its roughest state, and lines were seemingly unrecognizable, Landon flourished. The Georgia native would excel when it mattered most - powering through the last lap with phenomenal balance and optimal throttle control. When passing the mechanic's area for one final occasion, his fellow team member would applaud - and a top-five finish appeared to be within reach. While navigating over steep obstacles and through the tight turns thereafter, his route would finally lead him to the concluding bend on the racetrack... where he accelerated atop the finish line take-off and would be awarded with a fifth-place overall feat, as he exited the raceway! The performance was exceptional, and indicated that Gibson could contend amongst the best within the Supercross landscape!