JO SHIMODA - GRIT 251 250SX

GRIT-251 | 250 SX

June 4th, 2024 11:00 am

Believing that he could competed near a top-five standing, Jo Shimoda rolled onto the raceway and understood what task needed to be completed. He scoured the track for practice, and took note of the fastest/smoothest lines that were being presented. However, he couldn't overlook the occasional unorthodox pathway, as the lines that were off of the beaten path were undoubtedly tools that he could be used in the final stages of the main event. His Honda machine looked to be in perfect sync, with the track beneath him throughout day-time qualifying...leading to leap for the starting grate in his heat race, that equated to seventh. There was little room for error, as slight tucks of the front-end could be seen in the corner before the tunnel jump, especially on the inside with the excessive water being thrown on the hard-base of the Utah circuit. With little top soil to spare, the tires of his Honda 250F were constantly clawing for a bit of "bite" per se...which was needed, especially when attempting to evade the pressure that was being applied by veteran Phil Nicoletti, who appeared determined in his last ever SX competition. The checkered flag grew neared and nearer, with only a few moments separating him from the final double. And as the final lap eventually came to fruition, his ability to garner fifth was substantial for the main event gate pick. For the initial portion of the finalé, Haiden Deegan would lead the field around and appear to be a on a path few could stop. However, Shimoda's pace was notable (especially after passing Nicholas Romano for fourth) when leaping over the largest triple in the longest rhythm lane on the track...popping over the rather steep landing in an optimal position on the motorcycle, and landing with a swift transition to leap over the plateau that followed. Throughout the next few turns, he toggled between insides and outsides, depending on how close certain adversaries (i.e. Nate Thrasher) were to his rear wheel. Sling-shotting through the switchback bowl turns, his attack of each entrance followed by a coupling of both front and rear brake would cause the swing-arm to chatter and the back wheel to dance (a bit) when entering into the respective corners - portraying his sense of determination with high caliber maneuvering. Through the eleventh and twelfth minute, the battle between he and Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen seemed to sway in his favor...where his run through the final segment of the course, was an indicator that he could withstand the pressure as the race neared conclusion. Eventually finalized in fourth, his efforts in Utah were noticed by all in the industry.

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