Page 62 - ISSUE_58

MARTIN DAVALOS
450 MX / 12TH
IMAGE / LANNAN WORDS / MATTINGLY DESIGN / TILLS
>> Every racer has a certain sequence of events they must conquer and achieve, in order to create their ideal success in this sport. A graph or plotting chart if you will, the phenomenon is that some of the most adrenaline-filled athletes of any sport, can be some of the most calculated as well, and it’s ever apparent in the game of motocross. Martin Davalos lurked in the 250 class
for what seemed like eternity, yet, he continued to have a ride year after year, and provide means for his family. Fast forward to 2017, a push into the 450 field has surged the Ecuadorian to new heights, and he’s finding his groove amongst the top in the sport. Moto number one found Davalos in the very front in the early going, leaving the number 19 at bay. Beginning to pull, all seemed to be well as the most dangerous threats were buried in the field. Each lap,
he was dragging the front brake lever in the bottom “G” of the chicane at the top of the hill, never once paddling the feet, yet keeping the throttle twisted throughout. When suddenly, a mistake had allowed Bogle to move by on
lap four, and forced Davalos to play catch-up. It wasn’t long however before Musquin was at his door, eventually getting around on lap thirteen. Neverthe- less, he would rally, claiming another podium, and solidifying himself as a true contender. The second episode saw Davalos in tenth, and looking to move for- ward. Claiming the ninth spot around lap six, all seemed to be well until a mis- hap near the halfway point would cause Davalos to fall off the grid completely. Damaging to both his overall and morale, we hope to see the number 30 back on track soon, as a twelfth overall combined finish isn’t what he expected after his first moto performance.
62 GRITMOTO • AUGUST 20, 2017