Page 146 - Issue-35

AUSTIN FORKNER
250 SX / OKLAND
IMAGE / MPG WORDS / LANNAN DESIGN / WILSON
>> Austin Forkner is the exuberant new rookie trying to carry over his success from the amateur ranks to the pro level. So far, it seems Aus- tin is having no trouble as he had many incredible finishes during the summer in the Motocross series. Austin, now almost midway through his first Supercross season, is hungry for a win and it is most likely only a matter of time before we see him on top of the box. Austin went into Oakland following a podium the weekend before and was anxious to see if he could repeat his performance. He looked confident in the ruts and posted the 6th fastest time of the day. In 250 Heat 1, Austin got a fantastic jump and singled into the first section in 4th place. He then veered to the right a little too much as they dipped into the jump transition. He tried to correct quickly as they launched off the next obstacle but Austin’s trajectory was not going as planned. He landed completely sideways and launched off the side of the track. Luckily no one else was collected in the carnage and he got back up and began his charge back to qualifying position. From nearly last place, Austin had made it up to 10th with 2 laps to go. He continued to charge and made some very impressive passes as he sliced and diced his way into the top 5 in just two laps. He came away with an impressive 5th place by the time the checkered flag flew. Austin was ready to turn
his night around as the gate dropped for the 250 Main. He got a good start and entered the first rhythm section jumping through the ruts trying to secure 2nd place when the track reached up and puled him down. Austin Went over the bars and slammed into the Oakland soil. He was then run over by Hansen as his night went from bad to terrible. His night was unfortunately over way too early. Thoughts go out to Forkner, hopefully he is not seriously hurt and will be back next week.
146 GRITMOTO • FEBRUARY 5, 2017