Page 122 - GRRIT-11

RYAN DUNGEY
Ryan Dungey is rolling into Detroit in record breaking fashion. The defending series champion beat Chad Reed’s record for most consecutive podiums in Supercross last weekend in Toronto with his 26th straight finish on the box, overcoming an uncharacteristic mistake in the process. Miraculously, the last time Dungey failed to make the top 3 was the Anaheim opener last season where he finished
in 4th place. The Minnesota native has always been lauded for his consistency throughout his career, very rarely missing races
due to injury or finishing outside the top 5. But, it’s blatantly obvious to anyone that has followed Dungey’s career that he’s riding better than ever before. A full season’s worth of experience on the new KTM, his first full off-season with renowned trainer Aldon Baker, and having everything sorted in his personal life has combined into a perfect blend of ingredients for success. His mental fortitude has never been better - he has full confidence in the program, the bike, and his riding ability. His opening lap aggression (something he used to
be criticized for) is arguably the best in the 450 class this year; it’s apparent that he came into this season with a winning mentality. Although Dungey is coming into the 11th round of the series in Detroit with a 34 point lead over his former teammate Ken Roczen, he’ll still be looking to stifle the momentum of the young German going into the second half of the season. Roczen has won 2 of the last 4 races and nothing is more important in this sport than mentality and momentum.
122 GRITMOTO • MARCH.21.16
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