AMA Supercross
There’s a reason GEICO Honda rider Justin Barcia is leading the Supercross Lites East championship points in the AMA Monster Energy Series – he likes the view from the front.
In four Supercross Lites races this year, Barcia has finished no lower than second place and at various times he has led most of the heats and main event races. He’s riding like a man possessed, although he’s showing much more patience and maturity on the Supercross track.
Justin Barcia (GEICO Honda CRF250R) says: "I’m leading the points right now so I need to keep up with my podium finishes. That means that some times you need to ride smart, and I’ve been trying to do that this year. Hopefully I can win a few more races so I can end up with the championship at the end of the season. That’s the goal, and it’s right in front of me.
"I can’t wait to get to Jacksonville. I finished fourth there last year in my rookie season and I really like the track. It’s an open-air stadium so hopefully the weather is nice and we’re able to enjoy a great race there."
Barcia injured his wrist earlier in the Supercross season but has been riding well despite the injury. He’s hoping his results will stay consistent and even improve as his wrist heals.
Justin Barcia says: "I’m feeling great and my wrist is getting better and better each week. I think things will keep getting better as long as my wrist keeps getting better."
Barcia’s GEICO Honda teammate in the 450cc class, Supercross legend Kevin Windham, also is looking forward to a big weekend in Jacksonville.
Kevin Windham (GEICO Honda CRF450R) says: "I’ve been running and finishing right around the seven position all year and it’s been tough on me. I really want to crack that top five and start racking up some podium finishes."
Recently named "The Most Interesting Man in Motocross," Windham is hoping that with seven races left in the AMA Supercross season he can really make a move up the rankings.
Kevin Windham says: "I really need to crack that top five every weekend. Of course, I want to get a podium finish but I’m thinking baby steps at this point. It’s been a good season, I’ve had top 10 finishes at most races, but I now I’m ready for some top fives."
Fellow GEICO Honda Siupercross rider Blake Wharton, who rides with Barcia in the Lites class, is having a career year on his 250cc machine.
Blake Wharton (GEICO Honda CRF250R) says: "I’m going to Florida to win. I’m going there to get on the podium, just like I do every weekend. Just because I didn’t podium last weekend in Indy doesn’t mean I’m lowering my goals of winning the race."
Wharton is very confident in his team and himself heading south. He cannot wait to earn his first win of 2011 Supercross and hoping that will happen this weekend.
Blake Wharton says: "I know I can win. I just need to do a few things. I need the starts, I need the consistent riding, and I hope that I can put that all together in Jacksonville."
The 11th stop of the 2011 Monster Energy Supercross series starts at 7 p.m. E.D.T. at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Fla. Gates open for practice at noon.