race recap
SHANE MCELRATH | GRIT-219 | 450SX
May 9, 2023 · Shane McElrath
SHANE MCELRATH | GRIT-219 | SX 450
The former 250cc standout would put forth one of his strongest rides in recent memory while residing in Denver on Saturday, as the Suzuki rider knew he possessed the skills to compete at the highest level, but seemed to be awaiting for things to "click" in the current Monster Energy Supercross Championship. Nevertheless, he put his multitude of elite attributes into action as practice began, landing from the finish-line with a means to accelerate before speeding through the multitude of switchbacks the course would offer. And with inside ruts becoming an imminent way to travel, the number twelve's vision and ability to scour the surface (to acquire knowledge) would help him obtain a repertoire of lines that were to be used in the race to follow. His confident persona would translate into heat two, where he quickly moved forward from an eighth place starting position. He would be fifth by the end of lap four, and would believe he had the speed that was necessary to move around Dean Wilson. Shane managed to carry a sense of persistence that couldn't be ignored by the Honda rider; and would eventually pass the number fifteen before locating Colt Nichols just ahead. And though unable to overtake the Oklahoma native, his final residency of fourth would be strong enough to justify a solid gate choice for the main event. As gate(s) fell for the finalé, it was Shane who had accrued enough speed around the outside of turn number one, to claim the lead by the time they began the initial rhythm lane! He was flourishing on his Suzuki 450, and managed to hang onto the lead for nearly a full lap prior to being overtaken by Eli Tomac. So too would Adam Cianciarulo move forward, but Shane was resilient and would maintain a third-place designation following being passed by Chase Sexton (and inheriting a position due to Tomac's injury). Located in third through the eleventh lap, he would then defend his position from both Ken Roczen and Justin Hill, prior to descending to fifth. And once into the fifth-place position, the North Carolina resident would showcase as to why he's still considered one of the best in the world; racing with authority and composure on the world's highest stage. This was exactly the type of ride that McElrath needed, and as he leapt across the line in a fifth place designation, those in his supporting cast could be seen applauding and supporting him for his efforts!