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450 B Limited
PARKER MASHBURN / Motocross
Seminoles, Jaguars, Dolphins, among countless others, are mascot names synonymous with the state of Florida. A sport-driven territory since its inception, the amount of athletes this state produces and houses is truly remarkable. However, one title you may not here too often in these parts, is that of “Warrior.” But, for one week of the calendar year, the city of Gainesville is full of the aforementioned, willing to compete on an open playing field, known as Gatorback Cycle Park. These gladiators, mounted aboard their machines, are willing to go full force at one other, clashing straight ahead until the opposition gives in. This was seen first hand for the 450 B Limited class, who had their bayonets sharpened and canisters loaded prior to the initial gate drop. For the first heat, we saw the field dance around the slop for the better part of the first lap, getting the initial jitters out, and shaking off the cobwebs. Soaring out of the depths of the finish line takeoff, emerged Parker Mashburn, the true Texas cowboy riding off into the sunset. It was clear, he never had any intentions of leaving a trail, as he had cleared the protesting area,
30 by the time the rest of the field had finished. A whopping 14-second lead at the line, caused a tad bit of chatter throughout the pit area; ev- MPG • JANUARY • 2017