After a thrilling opener to the Fox Australian Supercross Championship last night, the action reached fever pitch at Moreton Bay’s Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe, where fans packed the stands in what was arguably one of the most thrilling nights of supercross racing in years. It was Napa Parts Honda Factory Racing’s Joey Savatgy (USA) who broke through to claim the SX1 overall victory, over Empire Kawasaki’s Luke Clout and defending series champion from Scotland, Dean Wilson (Honda Racing).
In the first of two of the ‘Double Header’ format races, Clout initially led the field before Wilson made his move, however a mistake by the reigning champion in the opening laps saw him tip over in a corner, relinquishing the lead.
Clout regained control while under pressure from Savatgy – the duo battling it out as Wilson re-entered the fight for the lead. It came down to the final lap, but it was Clout who prevailed ahead of Savatgy and Wilson.
CDR Yamaha Monster Energy duo Matt Moss and Jed Beaton completed the top five ahead of Aaron Tanti (Honda Racing), Hayden Mellross (KTM), Dylan Wills (GasGas Racing Team), Jack Mather (Raceline Husqvarna Tdub Racing), and Luke Zielinski (Yamaha).
The second final was a relatively uneventful encounter, with Clout initially leading before Savatgy made his move, going onto secure victory by 2.706s over Wilson, as Clout settled for third position.
SX2: Redemption for McElrath
In the SX2 (250cc) category it was another Honda, steered by Shane McElrath (USA), making a clear statement by dominating with an emphatic 1-1 sweep.
McElrath bounced back after a tough finish in the opening round to show his true potential in front of Boost Mobile Honda’s Noah Ferguson.
When the gates dropped for the first moto, it was an all-Honda showcase. McElrath rocketed to the front early and was never challenged, crossing the finish line with authority to remind everyone of his world-class talent.
Moto two kicked off with Alex Larwood jumping into an early lead, while Ferguson got tangled up in chaotic first-turn carnage. McElrath patiently chipped away, picking off riders one by one, until he seized the lead and charged to a commanding victory, capping off a flawless night for the American.