ANAHEIM – The roar of engines, the thrill of the jump, and the excitement of a flawless run – the AMA Monster Energy Supercross series epitomizes the high-octane world of motorsports. After battling the elements in San Francisco and San Diego, the series made a much-anticipated return to Anaheim for round 4 of the 31-round saga. This event wasn’t just about the individual races; it was a showcase of aggregate scoring that tested resilience and consistency across three gripping races for both the 450sx and 250sx classes.

The Super Bowl of motocross, the AMA Supercross series, has been synonymous with high-speed action and fearless riders. Despite the recent weather challenges, neither rider nor machine wavered. As competitors emerged from the rainy rounds to a dry Anaheim stadium, it was clear that passion and perseverance reign supreme in this sport.

The thunderous 450sx categories brought heated competition to the fore as Eli Tomac took the checkered flag. With each lap serving as a battlefield for points and pride, riders laid it all on the line. Notable riders among the pack were those who not just defied gravity but also expectations, carving through the air and competition alike.

450sx race 3 winner and fan favorite Eli Tomac. Valley News/David Canales photo

The 250sx class is known for its fierce up-and-comers, and round 4 was no exception. Levi Kitchens dominated the leaderboard with an enviable combination of speed and skill. Yet, amidst the roaring crowd, we witnessed the steadfast determination of local contenders making their mark in the Supercross realm.

Local talent in the spotlight included Hunter Yoder and Talon Hawkins – two names that commanded attention and local support. While Yoder’s #85 soared to a respectable 14th place finish, Hawkins’ #35 gritted through to place 19th, showing promise amidst a battalion of seasoned riders. Their performances were more than numbers; they were stories of aspiration, reflecting the community spirit of Menifee and Temecula.

This round’s aggregate scoring, where the low score wins the overall championship, painted a broader picture of a racer’s resolve. Performance consistency was the winning ticket, a testimony to those who mastered the tracks with mechanical symphony and unwavering focus.

Round 4 brought not just glory to the podium finishers but also invaluable experience to rising stars. Derek Drake, Lake Elsinore’s own, represented the vigor of the 450sx field, blazing through the competition with skillful navigation and relentless ambition. Other local action brought in Anthony Lozano of Menifee when he finished 3rd in the KTM juniors Division.

Created in 2022, the SuperMotocross World Championship combines the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA Pro Motocross Championship into a 31-event series that culminates in a season-ending two round playoff and SuperMotocross World Championship Final. Visit SuperMotocross.com for more information.

Send your local sports tips to sports@reedermedia.com.

JP Raineri
JP Raineri

JP is an award-winning multimedia journalist, and head of the Sports Department for the Valley News. Over his time in the Temecula Valley, JP, a former Southwestern League head baseball coach, was also an on-air radio personality at Q103.3, KATY 101.3, Hot 103.9, and was a television host for the Outdoor Channel. When not covering local, or national sports, JP also serves as an Associate Baseball Scout with NSR.