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KEN ROCZEN
450 SX / A-1
IMAGE / MPG WORDS / MATTINGLY DESIGN / WILSON
>> The glistening sun rises along the horizon from which it has laid dormant, rays emanating in all directions. Spreading beams of light across the cold, California tundra, the polished plastic of the 94 red-machine creates a prominent roar as the knobbies rumble into the forum where gladiators place their stakes. Sharpening of the iron, sheers of metal wincing with every stroke, the valiant competitor stares deep into the eyes of his foe, seemingly winning a fight of psychological warfare. Preparing to break free from behind the gate that bottles his rage within, the pin drops, and the pack stampedes into the first corner. Blitzing into the opening rhythm lane, Roczen’s championship aura seemed to engulf the field, his presence almost overwhelming; leaving the field gasping for breath
in a see of doom. Each section seemed to be conquered with routine finesse, acting as if this particular layout was imprinted into his memorization. Bowl turns, pivoted flaw- lessly; sand sections, finagled with meticulous timing. With each jump that passed, another millisecond shaved, as his suspension compressed with minimal effort. Roczen would amplify his lead as each lap dwindled away, eventually taking the checkered flag with utter tranquility. Seemingly putting a stamp on an early championship run, the field must hope that he falters; otherwise the race may be over before it begins.
10 GRITMOTO • JANUARY 9, 2017