Blake Baggett yet again proved he is strong and fast at Hangtown. Image: Simon Cudby.

Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Blake Baggett returned to form after a sub-par supercross season as he took victory in the 250 Class at the opening AMA motocross round in Hangtown, CA.

After taking the win at last year’s Hangtown event in dominating fashion, Baggett returned to do it all over again. Starting off with a come from behind win in moto one, passing Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen for the lead within two corners of the finish.

Baggett then lined up for moto two and rode away from the field, laying down a perfect 1-1 moto score, leaving with the series lead and the red plate.

“The track was pretty rough,” said Baggett. “This track is always pretty gnarly so we knew what to expect coming here.

“Everything went really good once the racing began. I got an okay start in the first moto and faded back to eighth. I was able to get back towards the front and with two laps to go it was on.

“It was a super intense race and by far one of the gnarliest battles I’ve had. You really have to watch it on television to even understand it.”

Baggett admits he is a fan of the Hangtown circuit.

“I have always liked the track here at Hangtown; you can get into a good flow in these hills if you find the right lines,” Baggett added.

Baggett and the rest of the AMA motocross field will head to Freestone Raceway in Texas this weekend for round two of the series.