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Brandon Yates had a great showing at the JS7 Freestone National where he grabbed his second national title. The new comer from Kansas raced in the 250 C and 450 C classes. He remained consistent all week long by finishing no worse than second in five of his eight motos. However despite staying consistent, he could have done even better if he did not struggle with his starts. His holeshots or lack thereof forced him to come from behind more often than not and really hurt his
chances at a few titles. He was setting the fastest lap times of the races while mired deep in the pack so you know he had the speed to win if he just got a good start. But despite that misfortune off the start, Yates wouldn’t leave Freestone empty handed. After a fiery comeback in the first moto of 450 C Jr (14-18) Limited class, he found himself just short of a race win settling for a close second. He knew he would have to get a good start in the second moto to put himself in a good position to wrap up the title. When the time finally came for that final moto, he was ready. The gate dropped and the fans had no idea they were about to see one of the best races of the week. Yates finally busted out a great start and came around in second place after lap one. He was right behind race leader Luke Willingham and proceeded to apply the pressure. The two riders would absolutely duke it out for the entire race. Yates was all over Willingham never more than .8 seconds away from him. Despite being that close, Yates just could not make a pass stick and when the white flag came out, he knew it was now or never. He let it all hang out and made a last second pass and crossed the finish line just .01 seconds ahead! It was a thrilling race and a great championship performance by Yates who earned his first title of the year. That win will surely energize him to perform at a high level for the rest of the season.
words/SETHHARNISHFEGER
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