Page 94 - MPG20

IMAGES / dustyOLIVER
Taking absolutely no time to sketch his spot into the pro rankings, the image of the #214 of Austin Forkner is already gaining clarity even though the season has just begun. The rider has already checked off his first podium in a moto as well as a top five overall, both of which came last weekend at round number two. Having been a clear victim to the professional debut, early career and high pressure nerves at Hangtown for round one, where he finished 8th, Glen Helen saw a calmer
interpretation of Forkner’s speed where he was able to dice it up with the lead group. After 3-5 moto
scores for a 4th overall, the results showed that the hype wasn’t misleading, rather, it was a table setter for the future. Still, in learning the circuits and settling into the team, Austin surely has room to grow going forward but doesn’t appear to need too much heading into Thunder Valley. If the youngest rider in the field gets a start and keeps the bike upright, there is no question that teammate Joey Savatgy and the whole Yamaha Star Racing crew will need to make some space for Forkner and his on-the-pipe Monster Energy steed. Only time will tell if the fortitude of Forkner is enough to become the next rookie race winner.
AUSTIN FORKNER
94
GRITMOTO • JUNE.6.16
>>