CARMICHAEL WINS HIS FIRST!

ÿThis year’s Daytona Supercross might well be remembered as a watershed moment in Supercross history. The younger generation, as represented by Ricky Carmichael in the 250 class and personable Travis Pastrana in the 125 class, held sway in the white sands of the Daytona infield. It was the first major win for both riders and has thrown a wrench into the prognostication of the upcoming AMA 125/250 National Championships. Carmichaels win at Daytona moves him to the head of the chart as a favorite for the 250 Nationals, while Pastrana’s Bob Hannah-like riding style makes him the win-or-die-trying dark horse for the 125 Nationals.
ÿAlthough Supercross points leader Jeremy McGrath doesn’t have to apologize for finishing second at Daytona, it was Carmichael’s day. Ricky lapped all the way up to fifth place (allowing a lapped Mike LaRocco to get back by him on the last lap). In LaRocco’s defense, LaRocket came from dead last to fifth before being caught by Ricky. David Vuillemin and Sebastien Tortelli rounded out the top four setting the stage for a 250 National Championship season that will pit Carmichael, Windham and Lusk against the Frenchmen. McGrath will not race the 250 Nationals (except for round one at Glen Helen).