race recap
PHIL NICOLETTI - GRIT 230 450MX
August 24, 2023 · Phil Nicoletti
PHIL NICOLETTI | GRIT-230 | 450MX
A native of the Northeast, Yamaha's Phil Nicoletti would be ecstatic for back-to-back rounds of racing in his home territory. The veteran of the sport hadn't lost his abilities on the motorcycle over the years, and if anything, had heightened in many aspects - which would be on display for the Budd's Creek National. Chosen by the production team to run a camera aboard his motorcycle, it was evident that Phil possessed tremendous confidence and skill amongst the ruts as they deepened; due to his lean angle and ability to keep the power on, amid the apex of the grooves. Nicoletti's opening stance in the running order (of seventh) would be held for a good while, until being surpassed by Dylan Ferrandis. Though undergoing a mistake and being passed by that of Ty Masterpool and Grant Harlan (amongst others) Nicoletti maintained composure when flying amongst downhills that were filled with prolonged grooves. He had to be mindful to not sink into the outside walls that were still filled with mud from earlier in the day, but Nicoletti would showcase an ability to pivot at just the right time in order to evade the most troublesome of terrain all the while exit the corner with outright speed and abundant RPM's. Nicoletti was a threat to reenter the top-ten, which was the case with around five laps to go...when a certain sense of momentum would overtake the New York native, as he decided to follow Chase Sexton and move around Grant Harlan. Harlan was tough to pass, but the veteran-mentality and sly maneuvering of the chassis amongst the off-cambered corners would be enough to solidify an eventual tenth-place score that was hard-earned. For round number-two of action, Nicoletti would begin the contest in twelfth and by the time lap five had arose, the New York native had advanced to tenth! He was just behind Freddie Noren, and remained within striking distance for a good while as he read the jersey lettering of the Twisted Tea, HEP Suzuki rider. Nicoletti wouldn't quit as the racing surface would lose its moisture, with the rear wheel spinning when attacking the final uphill prior to the mechanic's area - and instead of overriding the track with a means of too much front brake, Phil would remain diligent on both, the throttle and stopping system(s) as the checkered flag neared. Eventually finalized in eleventh, Nicoletti's consistency throughout the day would lead to an admirable tenth-place overall.