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JUSTIN COOPER
250 MX / 5TH
IMAGE / KILPATRICK WORDS / KUHLHOFF DESIGN / TILLS
>> Privateer rider, Justin Cooper, came out swinging for his pro debut at his home track this weekend in Unadilla. The Cold Spring Harbor, New York native had to have been feeling nervous and excited as he lined up for the first prestigious 250 moto
of the day. Still reeling from the confidence of his Open Pro Sport and 250 A overall titles at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch last week, Justin Cooper came out swinging when the gates dropped at The ‘Dilla. Cooper found himself in a very solid thirteenth place
off the start. The number 191 Yamaha machine stayed cool, calm, and collected as the checkered flag flew and he finished the first moto in an impressive twelfth place position. The storm clouds started getting more powerful with each passing mo- ment, resulting in a rain delay. A little delay did not stop the storm that was brewing in Justin Cooper’s soul though. Knowing that he had the hometown advantage and the “great equalizer” of a mud race in his corner, Cooper knew that he was capable of greatness in the second race of the day. The rain subsided and the track was a sloppy mess, but these riders were willing to come face to face with all obstacles and challenges to get a step closer to where they have been working endless to try and be. The gates dropped, as well as jaws, as Justin Cooper came careening out of the first turn in the second place spot behind Jeremy Martin in first. Everyone was on the edge of their seats with each passing lap, hoping that their hometown hero could hold onto this podium finish. Without missing a beat, Cooper weaved around puddle after puddle, throwing down lap times up to a second faster than the leader. Justin Cooper was ale to seize a well deserved and very impressive second place finish when the checkered flag soared. With 12-2 for the day, Justin Cooper left Unadilla one happy guy, especially since he was leaving the track with the fifth place overall. What an awesome breakout ride for Cooper, I cannot wait to see what else he can bring to the table, but he has definitely officially proven himself a contender in the class.
40 GRITMOTO • AUGUST 13, 2017