March 17, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's McAdoo Claims Triple Crown Win in Indianapolis

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Cameron McAdoo continued the team's Triple Crown win streak by claiming the overall victory inside Lucas Oil Stadium which helped propel him into a two-point championship lead in the Eastern Regional 250SX standings. The round was about consistency in Indianapolis, and McAdoo was able to stay out of trouble to finish with 1-2-3 main event scores. Teammate Seth Hammaker started well with a third place in Race 1 but had to overcome some mistakes to place his KX250 inside the top 10 in ninth overall (3-14-9). Hammaker remained sixth overall in the standings.

The second triple crown of the season was the first and only for the Eastern Region, and McAdoo entered the race with confidence as a previous winner in the unique three main-event format. When the Race 1 gate dropped, McAdoo found himself at the front and quickly made the pass for the lead after only one lap, racing to the checkered flag for the lead.

The second race was intense from the start, with McAdoo and Hammaker in the top five and moving forward. McAdoo was able to move into second after Hammaker went down, and he held a good pace until the finish, claiming the runner-up spot in Race 2. It all came down to the final race as he and another rider were tied for the lead. McAdoo raced to the first turn and avoided a crash, coming out in fourth. He moved up to third after two laps and, with his biggest competition behind him, rode smart and brought home his first win of the season on a Race 3 third-place finish.

"This win feels incredible," said McAdoo. "All season I've been trying to have a grateful attitude, knowing I'm in a great position to be healthy and on the podium. But this win is amazing. I have such a great support system behind me, from my wife to family to the team, that has stuck with me through the highs and lows. I don't take for granted having the red plate, and it will be nice to be able to leave on this good finish as we head into the break."

The night started well for the two-time podium finisher Hammaker, who claimed third in the opening race, but it didn't come easy. A mistake early on saw him running outside the top 10, but he didn't quit and made it through the pack to claim the final podium spot in Race 1.

Hammaker had a great start to Race 2 in third and was closing in on second when he went down in a rhythm section. He quickly was back up but couldn't race as hard as before, taking 14th in the second main event. The night's final race was pivotal for many as it included the only first-turn crash, which caused Hammaker not to gain as much ground at the start. He came around 16th after the first lap and once again used his grit and determination to climb the leaderboard and made it inside the top 10 in ninth, finishing the night ninth overall.

"Triple crowns are fun, but one mistake and it can cost you," said Hammaker. "I made my own mistakes and was caught up in others, so the night was tough overall for me. I felt good in that first race, but the mistake in the second race really set me up for a tough rest of the night. It was good to still bring home a top-10, but after getting on the podium the past two weekends, that's where I know I need to be. We'll take some time to get back up to pace over the break and come out swinging in Foxborough."

250SX Class Eastern Overall Results

1. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 1-2-3
2. Tom Vialle, KTM, 4-3-1
3. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha, 2-1-6
4. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 12-4-2
5. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 5-8-8
6. Nick Romano, Yamaha, 8-10-5
7. Jeremy Martin, Yamaha, 7-9-7
8. Chance Hymas, Honda, 9-5-11
9. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 3-14-9
10. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 11-15-4

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 98
2. Tom Vialle, KTM, 96
3. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 87
4. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha, 82
5. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 79
6. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 72
7. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 71
8. Max Anstie, Honda, 62
9. Chance Hymas, Honda, 60
10. Jalek Swoll, Triumph, 58

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 106
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 102
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 101
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 87
5. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 74
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 67
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 65
8. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 63
9. Carson Mumford, Honda, 58
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 56

 

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March 10, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's McAdoo and Hammaker Earn Back-to-Back Double Podium in Birmingham

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Cameron McAdoo and Seth Hammaker both returned to the podium with a back-to-back double podium at the Monster Energy Supercross' first trip to Protective Stadium. McAdoo's runner-up spot kept him within one point of the points leader, while Hammaker finished third and moved into sixth in the standings.

It was fun to be in a new stadium, but the weather proved challenging as the area was drenched in the days leading into the round. McAdoo found his rhythm late in the qualifying sessions, finishing second overall. He avoided some drama in the opening heat, finishing second. At the start of the main event, McAdoo was in the top five but quickly found himself in second, where he would maintain and ride home to the checkered flag for the third-straight race. His three consecutive runner-up finishes have helped him stay close in the standings as he remains only one point of the championship lead.

"It's been a great couple of weeks," said McAdoo. "We've been able to bounce back from that first round, and we are taking it round-by-round. I'd love to get a win, but we're looking at the long-term goal of a championship, so I have to be patient. The triple crown will be interesting next round."

Hammaker was on the top of the charts during the opening qualifying session and eventually came around to qualify fourth overall. He had a good jump in the heat race but went down in the first turn, forcing him to the LCQ. He gained a win in the LCQ, where he saw the success of the outside gate pick. Hammaker tried the same outside gate pick in the main event, and it worked, earning a fifth-place start. He made it up to fourth by Lap 5 and was patient to let third come to him by Lap 9. Hammaker was strong and held off advances from behind to claim his second podium this season.

"It's such a great feeling to be up here after starting the night on the ground," said Hammaker. "I am thankful to get another podium. This track was tough, but we got it done I know I'm not super close in the championship, but we'll take it one race at a time and hopefully get up here again next week."

250SX Class Eastern Overall Results

1. Tom Vialle, KTM
2. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki
3. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki
4. Pierce Brown, GasGas
5. Jeremy Martin, Yamaha
6. Jalek Swoll, Triumph
7. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha
8. Coty Schock, Yamaha
9. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha
10. Chance Hymas, Honda

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Tom Vialle, KTM, 74
2. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 73
3. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 69
4. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha, 62
5. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 62
6. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 59
7. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 59
8. Max Anstie, Honda, 53
9. Henry Miller, Honda, 48
10. Jalek Swoll, Triumph, 47

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 106
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 102
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 101
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 87
5. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 74
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 67
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 65
8. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 63
9. Carson Mumford, Honda, 58
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 56

 

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March 3, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's McAdoo and Hammaker Make it a Daytona Double Podium

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Cameron McAdoo and Seth Hammaker turned their greaet starts into a second and third place result, respectively, in front of a sold-out crowd at Daytona International Speedway. McAdoo's consistent results in the past two rounds have pushed him within one point of the Eastern Regional 250SX championship lead, while Hammaker has moved into eighth overall in the standings.

The day started with some rain that returned before the final qualifying practice, making the track extremely soft and challenging. McAdoo qualified second overall and took that speed into the heat race, where he took his third-straight heat race win. McAdoo elected to not go out for the parade lap to keep his bike clean before the main event, and it worked out well as he nearly earned the holeshot and took over the early lead on the opening lap. He held off pressure from attacks and was riding well, but a few mistakes during the middle section of the race caused him to fall back to second after four laps. McAdoo focused on hitting his lines and maintained second to the end, helping propel him to second in the standings, just one point back of the lead.

"The track was constantly evolving, and it ended up being patient," said McAdoo. "I think I ran out of some of that patience, which might have cost me, but we're back on the podium, and after the first round, we want to be as consistent as possible. The win will come. I love racing in front of the Daytona fans, and we'll see what energy the Birmingham fans can bring next week. I'm ready for more."

The trip to Daytona International Speedway was only the second of Hammaker's professional career, and he proved up to the challenge of the unique and tricky track. Hammaker learned the track again during practice and earned fifth during the wet qualifying sessions. He lined up for his heat and got a great start, battling through a few riders to finish third. At the beginning of the main event, Hammaker filed right in behind his teammate and was second on the opening lap. He was passed on Lap 2 but held off pressure from behind toward the end of the race to secure his first podium of the season.

"I'm stoked on that ride," said Hammaker. "It was a really tough track, and it felt nice to hit my lines consistently. It's been a while since I've been up on the podium, and it feels great. We'll keep working to hopefully get back up here again."

250SX Class Eastern Overall Results

1. Tom Vialle, KTM
2. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki
3. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki
4. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha
5. Pierce Brown, GasGas
6. Coty Schock, Yamaha
7. Jalek Swoll, Triumph
8. Max Anstie, Honda
9. Marshal Weltin, Yamaha
10. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Max Anstie, Honda, 52
2. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 51
3. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 51
4. Tom Vialle, KTM, 49
5. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha, 49
6. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 48
7. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 44
8. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 39
9. Henry Miller, Honda, 37
9. Marshal Weltin, Yamaha, 35

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 106
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 102
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 101
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 87
5. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 74
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 67
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 65
8. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 63
9. Carson Mumford, Honda, 58
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 56

 

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February 25, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's McAdoo Claims Season First Podium Finish in Arlington

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Cameron McAdoo earned his first podium of the season as the runner-up finisher inside AT&T Stadium. The second place pushed him up to sixth in the points standings and a boost in cofidence after a tough opening round. Teammate Seth Hammaker also had a great start to earn fourth in the main event following his pole position in qualifying. Austin Forkner entered the weekend with the red plate and, after taking the heat-race win, was running well and leading the main event but went down and was credited with 20th for the night.

The military appreciation round was extra special for McAdoo, who was able to highlight the hard work of his sister in the Navy. He had her in mind throughout the day, and the podium was extra special. McAdoo's qualifying wasn't anything to write home about, but the track was challenging and he was getting his KX250 dialed. It all came together in the heat race when he scored his second consecutive heat-race win.

When the gate dropped for the main event, McAdoo found himself in fourth and pushing every lap. He got by his teammate after six laps and didn't stop moving to the front, eventually crossing the finish line in second.

"I felt like I needed to be extra patient tonight with this track," said McAdoo. "I was a little banged up from a pre-season injury and again after Round 1, so I was trying to be more methodical about the day. It meant a lot for me to acknowledge my sister so much during this round, and she's always pushed me to be the best I could possibly be on the track. This one was for her, and I'm really happy at how close the points are as we head to Daytona."

The day started out spectacular for Hammaker with the fastest qualifier through all afternoon sessions. He was confident in his heat race and earned third. With the track very technical and deteriorating, a start was critical, and Hammaker found himself in third in the main event after the opening lap. He was able to hold off his teammate for several laps but succumbed and rode well in fourth for the remainder of the main event, less than two seconds off the podium.

"The track was very tough, and I was trying to keep my mistakes to a minimum as much as possible," said Hammaker. "To come away with a fourth after having such a disappointing first round was a step in the right direction. I really want to challenge not only for the podium but for a win, and I think we can get there this season. We'll see what happens next week in a different atmosphere in Daytona."

Forkner had a great start to the day as he qualified just behind his teammate in second during afternoon sessions. He used that same speed to come through the field in his heat to take his second heat-race win. Knowing his start would be crucial, Forkner once again enjoyed and event-free race, but with just over three minutes to go, Forkner was ejected in a tough rhythm section and could not return to the race, scoring 20th. He will seek further evaluation this week before determining a return date.

250SX Class Eastern Overall Results

1. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha
2. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki
3. Tom Vialle, KTM
4. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki
5. Pierce Brown, GasGas
6. Max Anstie, Honda
7. Chance Hymas, Honda
8. Coty Schock, Yamaha
9. Guilen Farres, Husqvarna
10. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Max Anstie, Honda, 38
2. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 34
3. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 32
4. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 32
5. Haiden Deegan, Yamaha, 31
6. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 29
7. Austin Forkner, Kawasaki, 27
8. Chance Hymas, Honda, 27
9. Guilen Farres, Husqvarna, 27
10. Henry Miller, Honda, 27
13. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 19

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 106
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 102
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 101
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 87
5. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 74
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 67
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 65
8. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 63
9. Carson Mumford, Honda, 58
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 56

 

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February 11, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Kitchen Secures Solo Red Plate with Runner-Up Finish in Glendale

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen will keep the red plate adorned to his No. 47 KX250 after racing to a runner-up finish at Round 5 of the Western Regional 250SX championship inside State Farm Stadium. Kitchen's memorable day also included a heat race win and the main event holeshot, culminating in his second-place finish that resulted in a four-point lead heading into the six-week Western Regional break.

The weather might have been threatening outside, but Kitchen quickly found his pace on the longer track inside the closed-roof stadium. In qualifying, Kitchen took second overall and lined up for Heat 1. He had his start dialed and led the heat race wire-to-wire, earning his second heat race win of the season.

While things went decently smoothly for most of the day, the main event was eventful. Kitchen grabbed his first holeshot of the season and led the field for the first two laps. He was passed on Lap 3 and made a few mistakes that pushed him back to third. Kitchen was gifted second and raced hard to hold off third but nearly was landed on a few laps later in a section with a downed rider. Thankfully, Kitchen kept it on two wheels and rode his KX250 home to second place. His finish helped take solo control of the points lead at the season's halfway point.

"I'm glad we walked away healthy from this one, and I'm so stoked to go into the long break with the red plate," said Kitchen. "When I saw the flashing yellow, I wasn't sure if I could jump and errored on the side of caution. I didn't want to get docked any points with a points battle this close. I'm thankful to put together some good races for the team. I wouldn't have been able to do it without all the support behind me. We're going to keep up the intensity over the break and cheer on my teammates in the east."

250SX Class Western Overall Results

1. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna
2. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki
3. Jo Shimoda, Honda
4. Jordon Smith, Yamaha
5. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda
7. Julien Beaumer, KTM
8. Phil Nicoletti, Yamaha
9. Robbie Wageman, Yamaha
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 106
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 102
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 101
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 87
5. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 74
6. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 67
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 65
8. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 63
9. Carson Mumford, Honda, 58
10. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 56

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Austin Forkner, Kawasaki, 25
2. Max Anstie, Honda, 22
3. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 20
4. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 18
5. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 17
6. Jalek Swoll, Triumph, 16
7. Henry Miller, Honda, 15
8. Guillen Farres, Husqvarna, 14
9. Marshal Weltin, Yamaha, 12
10. Chance Hymas, Honda, 11
15. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 7
21. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 1

 

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February 4, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Forkner Kicks Off Season with 13th Career Supercross Victory

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Austin Forkner claimed his 13th-career supercross victory at the opening round of the Eastern Regional 250SX class at Ford Field in Detroit. The win gives the team back-to-back victories (Kitchen, Anaheim 2) and red number plates in both regions after five rounds. Teammates Cameron McAdoo and Seth Hammaker were involved in a first-turn crash during the main event that hindered their opening round, with McAdoo ending the night in 15th while Hammaker was credited with 21st.

The win for Forkner in Detroit was a long time coming after being sidelined at the opening round last year. Saturday night was a different opening round story for Forkner, who started the day qualifying third. He looked confident as he led every lap of his heat race and readied to make it count in the main event. Forkner was able to get a great start and avoid a huge first-turn crash, launching to the lead, where he held on for a wire-to-wire victory.

"It's such a great feeling to get the win," said Forkner. "Last year at the opening round, I was laying on the ground, and my supercross season was over. I worked really hard to get back up to speed and I am very thankful to everyone who has stuck behind me. It feels great to give them a win and the team its second win in two weeks."

The qualifying times were extremely close, which pushed McAdoo down the charts to the 12th spot. That didn't deter him once the gate dropped for his heat race as McAdoo chased down the leader to claim the opening heat race victory. He had a good jump at the start of the main event but was collected in the first-turn pile-up. It took some time for McAdoo to get going again, but he remounted one lap down and, even with a rip in his gear, pressed on and tried to gain as many points as possible. When the checkered flag flew, he had earned a 15th-place finish.

"The day was going great until that first turn crash," said McAdoo. "Even though I wasn't that high on the qualifying sheets, I felt good and I think that showed in the heat race. It was really nice to get that win. I just wish I had been able to challenge for the lead, but instead, we were fighting to make up as many points as possible after the first turn crash. We've got some time to regroup before Arlington, so I'm thankful for that."

Hammaker started the day looking fast and earned the fifth-fastest time during the qualifying sessions. He had a solid heat race where he finished fourth and was ready to make the most of the first main event of the season. Unfortunately, Hammaker wasn't able to showcase his speed as he was hit on the start straight, sending him to the ground. His bike was in bad shape, and he couldn't return, scoring 21st in the final results on the night.

"It was a decent day to start, but I'm really disappointed how it finished," said Hammaker. "I know that's racing, but I really wish I could have been out there with the guys earning some points. We have to put this behind us and focus on the future races. I'm ready for Arlington to be here, but we'll keep putting in the work the next few weeks to come back stronger."

250SX Class Eastern Overall Results

1. Austin Forkner, Kawasaki
2. Max Anstie, Honda
3. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha
4. Coty Schock, Yamaha
5. Pierce Brown, GasGas
6. Jalek Swoll, Triumph
7. Henry Miller, Honda
8. Guillen Farres, Husqvarna
9. Marshal Weltin, Yamaha
10. Chance Hymas, Honda
15. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki
21. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki

250SX Class Eastern Points Standings

1. Austin Forkner, Kawasaki, 25
2. Max Anstie, Honda, 22
3. Daxton Bennick, Yamaha, 20
4. Coty Schock, Yamaha, 18
5. Pierce Brown, GasGas, 17
6. Jalek Swoll, Triumph, 16
7. Henry Miller, Honda, 15
8. Guillen Farres, Husqvarna, 14
9. Marshal Weltin, Yamaha, 12
10. Chance Hymas, Honda, 11
15. Cameron McAdoo, Kawasaki, 7
21. Seth Hammaker, Kawasaki, 1

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 84
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 84
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 76
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 70
5. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 55
6. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 54
7. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 51
8. Nate Thrasher, Yamaha, 50
9. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 48
10. Carson Mumford, Honda, 47
18. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki, 20

 

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January 28, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Kitchen Demonstrates Consistency to Win Anaheim 2

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen put another Anaheim 2 win onto his resume thanks to great starts and consistent race scores during the first Triple Crown format of the season at Angel Stadium. The victory also propelled Kitchen into a tie for the lead in the Western Regional 250SX championship standings after four rounds.

The riders enjoyed the first day race since the opening round at the same venue, but were challenged with a new race format of three main events. As the sole representation for the team with Vohland on the sidelines, Kitchen immediately rose to the challenge and found himself second overall during the afternoon qualifying practises. That speed translated to the first main event as he launched out and took over the lead, winning the opening race wire-to-wire.

The second main event saw Kitchen execute another strong start and found himself in third. He stayed with the front pack and was able to get by for second, where he finished. The third main event was more of the same, with Kitchen taking the coveted final holeshot and filing into second. He stayed on the leader but knew he didn't need to make the pass to get the overall, so he kept up pace before finishing third in the final race to give him his second career supercross victory and move into a tie for the championship lead.

"The triple crown format is always a crazy night," said Kitchen. "You really have to be consistent and then in that final race know where you need to be in order to finish the overall. I knew I was in a good spot and tried to ride smart, but I made a few mistakes towards the end. It worked out, and I'm really happy to be able to give this win to the team. They have worked really hard and we'll keep at it to come back strong in two weeks in Glendale."

250SX Class Western Overall Results

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 1-2-3
2. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 2-1-7
3. Nate Thrasher, Yamaha, 3-10-1
4. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 9-3-2
5. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 4-8-4
6. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 8-6-8
7. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 12-5-6
8. Ryder DiFrancesco, GasGas, 5-7-12
9. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 6-16-5
10. Phil Nicoletti, Yamaha, 7-4-18

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 84
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 84
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 76
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 70
5. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 55
6. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 54
7. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 51
8. Nate Thrasher, Yamaha, 50
9. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 48
10. Carson Mumford, Honda, 47
18. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki, 20

 

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January 21, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Kitchen Retains Second Overall in San Diego with Top-Five Finish

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen showcased his speed throughout a rainy day at Snapdragon Stadium, winning his heat race and nearly taking the lead in the main event before finishing a solid fifth place. His determination after tipping over in the main event helped him keep second place in the championship standings. Teammate Maximus Vohland sat out the round in San Diego after suffering an injury leading into the season's third race.

For the second straight week, rain threatened the round in California, but after a solid showing in San Francisco, the team was up for the challenge. Kitchen only had one round of qualifying to put in a fast time, with the second session being canceled, finishing eighth. During his heat race, he was running well, but a red flag caused a complete restart. This benefited Kitchen, who quickly took over the lead and grabbed his first heat race win of the season.

In the main event, Kitchen got a good jump again, slotting in around sixth after the first turn. After a rider went down and broke up thr pack, Kitchen pushed his way up to second and was righton the leader after the first full lap was completed. He looked faster in several sections, but Kitchen couldn't make a pass. After about five minutes, he tried a different line but didn't get the drive he needed out of a corner and went down. Kitchen quickly got up in sixth and worked the remainder of the race to stay close to make up position, eventually crossing the finish line in fifth.

"I hate it for the team to have gone down like that because they worked so hard to get me a great bike for the conditions today," said Kitchen. "I really was trying to take my time but also try different lines and it bit me. I know we were better than a fifth, but I'm feeling really good and can't wait to see what we can do in dry conditions next weekend."

250SX Class Western Overall Results

1. Nate Thrasher, Yamaha
2. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha
3. Jordon Smith, Yamaha
4. Jo Shimoda, Honda
5. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki
6. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna
7. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda
8. Ryder DiFrancesco, GasGas
9. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki
10. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 67
2. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 59
3. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 57
4. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 54
5. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 41
6. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 39
7. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 36
8. Carson Mumford, Honda, 36
9. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 36
10. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 33
15. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki, 20

 

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January 14, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Kitchen Keeps Podium Streak Alive in Sloppy San Francisco

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen survived the downpour that drenched Oracle Stadium on Saturday night, collecting his second-straight podium finish with a runner-up finish. The ride pushed him up to second in the Western Regional 250SX point standings. The rain was consistent throughout the day but only worsened as the night progressed, leaving the track as a test of survival. Unfortunately, Maximus Vohland was one of many riders on the sidelines early in the main event, finishing on the scorecard 19th.

The day started with only one qualifying due to the conditions, putting Kitchen ninth. The rider from the damp Pacific Northwest looked comfortable on the track and finished heat third, giving him a good gate pick for the main event. Once the gate dropped for the main, the skies opened up even more and it was all about survival. Kitchen got a good jump but played it smart and funneled into sixth. Several riders were unable to get past the first few laps, and that propelled Kitchen to second, where he settled in, without recognizing the rider in his sights was in the lead. When he realized it, Kitchen picked up the pace, but time ran out, and he enjoyed a hard-fought second-place finish.

"It was really all about survival out there," said Kitchen. "I had a blast, and once you found a good pace that felt comfortable, it was fun. I didn't realize that Jordon was the leader, and once I saw it on the big screen, I picked up the pace and tried to reel him in. I just didn't have enough time. I'm thankful to be in a good place right now with two podium finished and hope to keep it going next week."

Like the rest of the field, Vohland had only one practice to hone in the track before the night show, finishing qualifying in the 11th. He lined up in the same heat as his teammate, and both were really close to each other, with Vohland finishing fourth. Once again, Vohland's starts were on point and he launched out to second right away. He had some company and tried to keep his competition at bay, eventually having a mechanical issue which forced him to retire at the halfway mark, finishing 19th.

"Tonight didn't go to plan at all," said Vohland. "I knew what I was up against with the weather, but was hoping we'd be able to make it to the end. That's racing, and now we have to put our heads down to make up as many points as possible over the next few rounds. I've felt good overall with my riding so I'm ready for the challenge."

250SX Class Western Overall Results

1. Jordon Smith, Yamaha
2. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki
3. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha
4. Phil Nicoletti, Yamaha
5. Carson Mumford, Honda
6. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki
7. Joshua Varize, GasGas
8. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki
9. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna
10. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda
19. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 47
2. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 42
3. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 38
4. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 35
5. Carson Mumford, Honda, 29
6. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 27
7. Anthony Bourdon, Suzuki, 27
8. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 26
9. Hunter Yoder, Kawasaki, 23
10. Joshua Varize, GasGas, 22
11. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki, 20

 

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January 7, 2024

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Kitchen Starts Season Off With Podium Finish

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen raced his Kawasaki KX250 to a third-place finish at the season opener at Angel Stadium, fighting to the last corner to ensure his season started with a podium result. His teammate Maximus Vohland earned his first career heat-race win before racing to a notable fifth-place result in the main event, giving the team a positive ne to start on for 2024.

The day started really well for Kitchen, who toped the charts in qualifying to take the pole position. In his heat race he had a great jump and funneled in just behind his teammate, but he got caught in a rut and went down early but eventually raced himself back into a transfer position in seventh. Even with the lower gate pick, Kitchen launched out of the main event gate drop and found himself in third after settling in the first two laps. He kept the pace high, and although he seemed to tighten up and fall back a few spots, Kitchen made a late race drive back into third, where he would finish.

"It's amazing how many first-round jitters you get even after racing under the lights for a few years," said Kitchen. "I did end up running a little tight in the middle of the race, which cost me some time catching the front, but in the end, I'm stoked to be on the podium in the first race. It's a long season, but to start it off with a good handful of points is great. It's nice to get this for the team who's been working really hard."

Vohland got things going in practice with a great pace to qualify fifth. When the gate dropped in his heat race, he was right at the front and passed for the lead on the second lap and took home his first career heat race win. When the gate dropped for the main event, Vohland was right in the mix at the front and settled into sixth. With not great opportunities to make passes, he waited for the right time and passed into fifth around the halfway mark. He would get up to fourth but eventually moved back into fifth, where he would cross the finish line.

"It was really awesome to get that heat race win," said Vohland. "I got a great start and made it count. In the main, I got pushed back behind a few guys that were going pretty good and the track was pretty slick. You had to be really smart about where you tried to pass. In the end, a fifth is good, but I want more. I think my speed can get me on the podium and with next week being my local race, I'm excited to get up to San Francisco."

250SX Class Western Overall Results

1. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha
3. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki
4. Jo Shimoda, Honda
5. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki
6. Julien Beaumer, KTM
7. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha
8. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda
9. Ryder DiFrancesco, GasGas
10. Carson Mumford, Honda

250SX Class Western Points Standings

1. RJ Hampshire, Husqvarna, 25
2. Jordon Smith, Yamaha, 22
3. Levi Kitchen, Kawasaki, 20
4. Jo Shimoda, Honda, 18
5. Maximus Vohland, Kawasaki, 17
6. Julien Beaumer, KTM, 16
7. Garret Marchbanks, Yamaha, 15
8. Mitchell Oldenburg, Honda, 14
9. Ryder DiFrancesco, GasGas, 13
10. Carson Mumford, Honda, 12

 

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