AMA MX: Reed retains title lead with fourth at Thunder Valley
Chad Reed:
Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Chad Reed knuckled down for a solid fourth place finish under lights at the Thunder Valley MX in Colorado, maintaining his points lead in the 450 class.
Coming off his first win and a perfect 1-1 finish at High Point, Reed was confident of carrying over the momentum and delivering another strong result with a weekend off to recuperate.
He endured an uncharacteristic struggle for speed in practice, only managing 11th and facing a tough start from the gates.
Reed made good ground as the gates fell on moto 1, entering the corner with the leaders and emerging in fourth.
He passed his teammate for third and set about gapping his closest rivals on track.
The Australian soon settled into a rhythm, taking few risks to chase down the lead pairing and collecting another solid points haul.
A slow start in moto 2 separated Reed from the frontrunners and he never regained the advantaged, only able to work his way to seventh when the chequered flag was waved.
The 3-7 finish earned him a fourth overall and ensures he is still well in charge of the championship approaching the mid-point of the AMA Pro Motocross season.
“Each race is a real battle and it was good to come away from Thunder Valley with a fourth place and the championship lead,” said Reed.
“I’m lucky in that the team is getting right behind me and working with me to ensure I’m comfortable on the bike, it’s an encouraging environment to be part of.
“Consistency is important and we’re collecting points where others aren’t, I’m hoping to make an improvement next weekend at Redbud and head into the second half of the championship with a solid lead.”
The helmet worn by Reed at Thunder Valley, featuring an indigenous artwork supporting the cause of Red Dust Role Models, is being auctioned online with bids now open.
Visit http://www.teamvodafone.com/index.php?id=295
to place a bid.
The sixth round of the championship will be held at the iconic Redbud track in Buchanan, MI, next Saturday.
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