AMA Supercross
Team San Manuel Yamaha AMA Supercross rider James Stewart started the day in Phoenix with his signature speed, setting the pace during timed practice sessions with the fastest lap time.
In Heat Race 2, things didn’t go as smoothly. Though he gained the Supercross lead position by the end of the first lap, Stewart lost traction in a turn midway through the Heat, setting him back a couple of positions.
Stewart quickly remounted and regained his placement, finishing the Supercross Heat in second for a transfer to the main. Approaching the Start Gate in the Main, Stewart was determined that this year’s Phoenix Supercross race would resemble nothing of the past.
And he didn’t disappoint. Grabbing the Hole Shot off the start, James went on to ride 20 near-perfect laps, posting his first win of the season.
James Stewart says: "It’s been a long road back and it feels great. I really have to thank all my fans, sponsors and team for their support because I can feel it when I’m out there. "
The day was more challenging for Kyle Regal, Stewart’s teammate. Struggling in Heat Race 1, Kyle was forced to the LCQ to earn his spot in the Main, where his talent as a young rider showed through.
After a solid start, Kyle quickly took the Lead putting bike lengths between he and the rest of the pack, winning the LCQ for a transfer to the Main.
A decent start in the Main had Regal in 12th, and while he lost a few positions in the first half of the Main, he worked his way up to 10th place by the final lap, showing improvement and taking his first Top 10 of the season.
Both Stewart and Regal return to California to test and train for Round 3 in L.A.’s Dodgers Stadium next Saturday.