Page 128 - ISSUE42

GRADIE FEATHERSTONE
250 SX / 21ST
IMAGE / MPG WORDS / LANNAN DESIGN / WILSON
>> Gradie Featherstone is doing his best to make a name for himself in American racing. Mr. Featherstone has came all the way from the UK to compete with the best and it seems he has what it takes. Last year, Gradie made a couple of Main Events and was able to set up some solid stepping-stones for 2017. He fought his way into the Main last weekend in Indy where he went on to finish 18th and was bound and determined to repeat the success as the day began in Detroit. He found his speed in qualifying and knew what he needed to do if he wanted
to score some points in Michigan. When 250 Heat 2 began, Gradie didn’t get
the jump he wanted off the line, but was smart as the riders came down the start straight. He made a quick jolt to the inside as they went around turn one, which turned his last place start into a decent mid pack run. Sadly, it ended quickly as he fell victim to the slick Detroit soil. He would remount but was unable to make his way into a qualifying position. In the LCQ, Gradie would get a fantastic jump and made his way through the first rhythm section battling for 3rd place. He quickly pushed his way into 2nd place but was pushed off the track by a slight bump from another rider. Luckily, he kept it on two wheels as he laid the rubber down on the plywood and was able to rejoin the track in 2nd place. The next
lap he was passed but was holding down 3rd place strong. He held onto the
3rd place spot all the way until the last lap where he was forced to give it up. Nevertheless, he had secured his spot in the final. When the gate dropped for this race, Gradie almost immediately began to make contact with another rider as they went down the straightaway. Fortunately, he averted disaster and went on to round the outside of the first corner. Tragically, his line connected with the first turn pile up, and he was forced to come to a complete stop and wait for
the downed riders to clear. He would get back going near the back of the pack. Gradie rode good for several laps and looked to hold down a top fifteen position. Unfortunately, he fell victim to the Detroit soil again and was forced to surrender his efforts on lap 8. Hopefully he is not seriously injured and we will see him back racing next weekend.
128 GRITMOTO • MARCH 26, 2017