race recap
MAX ANSTIE | GRIT-217 | 250SX
April 25, 2023 · Max Anstie
MAX ANSTIE | GRIT-217 | SX 250
Few could've predicted the narrative that was going to take place as racers were stationed at MetLife Stadium, with rain in the forecast in the days prior, but little guarantee as to exactly what time it would come. But Honda's Max Anstie was ready for whatever was thrown his way, knowing that regardless of Mother Nature's chosen atmosphere, the British rider was destined to excel. For practice, the circuit would be easily decimated and was filled with ruts as laps progressed; creating quite the challenge for all in the 250 field. Couple that notion, with the East/West showdown format that was unique to round fourteen, and the storyline for Max to win this particular outing would be quite difficult...but the number sixty-three would continue on, establishing a presence inside the top-ten as the 250SX East Heat came to fruition. Finding a rhythm of sorts around the ninth-place residency, Anstie would eventually navigate his way to seventh, just behind Tom Vialle to conclude the moto prior to embarking on the main event. However, only moments prior to the gate(s) crashing to begin the finalé, would lighting cause the event to be delayed! And with the storm that rolled through, so too would a tremendous amount of rain; creating havoc across the raceway while all in attendance waited with anticipation. Anstie would remain composed as he was stationed in the staging area, anticipating racing to resume under adverse conditions. After what seemed like an eternity, they were given the green light to move forward...where Max would immediately thrive. Blasting from the gate(s) with all of his might, he would narrowly edge that of Max Vohland for the lead while skating around turn number one! The track was like a river, with the entirety of the surface being filled with water; but Anstie would do his best to double and triple his way through the first lap. His vision remained clear, and as minutes would pass, his lead would amplify. The number sixty-three initially pulled from Max Vohland, but it would be the Lawrence brothers along with RJ Hampshire who had made their way into the top-five as the moto progressed; but there was little to critique on behalf of Anstie, as he remained error free, upright, and built a gap that was superb amongst the unrecognizable track. Max was focused when passing the halfway mark, and even until around three laps to go...when Jett Lawrence's rev's were becoming more apparent. However, even with a "mad dash" of sorts being conducted on behalf of Jett in the final run of the whoop section, Anstie remained focused on the checkered flag! Though nearly past with one straightaway in the moto, it would be the resilience of the British native that ultimately prevailed to take the win!