Page 14 - MPG4

theGRIT
The state of Texas nickname “Lone Star” was somewhat fitting for the Freestone National, as all atten- tion was cast on the number 214. On the brink of professionalism, anything less than winning looked to be disappointing for the Kawasaki competitor.
It’s tough enough to line up against the most talented in your specific age group, much less someone who’s amassed six Loretta Lynn’s titles and eight years the elder. That’s exactly what Forkner had to overcome in the Pro Sport class, as Nico Izzi chose to throw his name in the hat and sign the dotted line, (although a first moto DNF would derail the Suzuki rider’s championship aspirations). Forkner remained composed with solemn expression, and claimed the title for the event with 2-1-2 moto scores.
Lining up with half the horsepower of the competition would be an excuse most would use in light of adversity; Forkner knew no such way, as he sprinted to a holeshot and early lead in moto one of 450 A. (Whip Lashing, YAH, YAH!) The Pro Circuit jockey cracked his Kawasaki stallion for all she had, galloping to a moto win to begin the series. He would come into the final race with remarkable 1-2 finishes, but an unfortunate DNF would cost him another championship; he’d be back for more soon however.
250 A, time for a good ol’ Texas Tavern shootout. With dual-mounted holsters and clip to match, Forkner approached the line snarling at his competitors. The grim expression seemed to frighten all that were around,
as he let it out an immediate three clicks of the trigger finger and smoked his way to a crisp trio of 1’s. A clean sweep of the class would have Austin tipping his cap and riding off into the sunset, leaving Freestone in the dust.
14 MPG • APRIL 2016
WORDS/LOGANMATTINGLY