Page 52 - ISSUE42

CHRISTIAN CRAIG
250 SX / 7TH
IMAGE / MPG WORDS / KUHLHOFF DESIGN / WILSON
>> Christian Craig’s Corona, California roots totally worked in his favor during a hard and slick first heat race. Off the start, Osbourne had the initial drive but it was Craig who was able to grab a hint of traction on the inside line and rocket forward, grabbing the holeshot. Carrying on after contact
with a tough block, Christian Craig showed steady momentum throughout, especially in the sand section, and was able to capture his second heat race win of the year and the fourth one of his career. During his heat race podium interview, Craig discussed track conditions as well as his involvement in Alex Martin’s in practice crash, putting Martin on the sidelines for the night show in Detroit. At fault, Christian apologetically spoke on the incident and explained that he would be getting last gate pick for the Main Event because of it.
The number 48 rider lined up last for the main, but fans still knew that Christian Craig definitely has what it takes to be a podium contender in the Motor City. Unfortunately after a tough start, Christian Craig found himself sitting in sixteenth place on the first lap, ten spots behind his sixth place finish in Indy last weekend. Craig started working his way through the pack at an impressive rate. By the ten-minute mark, he found himself moving into eighth place. Christian Craig was not done yet though, with only a few laps remain- ing he was able to make a pass on Audette and move into the seventh place spot. Christian Craig leaves Detroit with a seventh place finish and is sitting in sixth place for overall points standings. Round Six for this East Coaster was a rough one, but Craig was still able to put on a commendable ride. Hopefully Round Seven in St. Louie will be a little smoother sailing for the Geico Honda rider.
52 GRITMOTO • MARCH 26, 2017