Page 92 - Issue_39

RJ HAMPSHIRE
250 SX / 14TH
IMAGE / MPG WORDS / LANNAN DESIGN / WILSON
>> RJ Hampshire is one of the bright youngsters chasing the success in the pro ranks. After a fantastic amateur career, RJ
has yet to see the same accomplishments in the pro division but is doing everything he can to get it done. RJ started off the 2017 season very impressively by breaking into the top 5. He looked for the same result in Atlanta but unfortunately, had some mishaps. RJ was looking to redeem himself in Toronto as he was going
fast in practice. He qualified strong and was ready to race in the cold northern air. RJ got off to an excellent start when 250 Heat 2 began. He was pushed outside in the 2nd corner but continued to hold on the throttle. He came out in 4th position and was looking strong. He held the spot for three laps but then fell victim to the frozen Toronto soil. He regained his composure and began to lay down the hammer. RJ was knocking on the door of a qualifying position quickly and was able to make the move. He continued to charge and made a mass for 8th place on the last lap. In the Main, Hampshire got a decent start and was running just inside the
top ten early on. He dropped back early on but was still hovering around the top ten spot. He then began to pick up the pace as he started to pick guys off slowly but surely. RJ had made it up to 7th place with about 6 laps to go. He was continuing solid laps all the way until the last lap where a mishap put a damper on his night. Luckily, he was able to get back up and salvage 14th in Toronto.
92 GRITMOTO • MARCH 5, 2017