Last weekend dirt bikes abounded at the inner sanctum of Cowboys Stadium. Lush green sports turf was transformed into red dirt hills tall enough to make even the biggest red ant jealous. The dirt track welcomed MMA riders from across the globe to compete in Monster Energy and Feld Entertainment's annual Supercross competition held in Arlington, TX.
During the events kick-off the stadium was darkened for the pledge, a mini pyrotechnics display and a very touching tribute made to two DFW men who were recently killed, Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield. There was a moment of silence held for both men and competition riders Blake Wharton, (Pilot Point, Texas), wore a jersey (formerly owned by Kyle) while fellow rider Andrew Short, (Smithville, Texas) wore a jersey with Chad Littlefield’s name on the back. Both shirts were signed by Supercross’ riders. Wharton and Short were on the track wearing the jerseys during the moment of silence. It was a very thoughtful and touching tribute conceived by former rider Chris Daubitz, (Midlothian, TX).
After the tribute, the event went into full swing and riders in the two competition levels (250 SX and 450 SX) not only brought their competitive spirit, but provided a few hours of thrills, and even hard core spills which although probably painful for the riders, left the crowds amazed. The riders flew their bikes as high as three stories into the air and a few unlucky riders such as Tapia, Schneider, and Howell were out almost as soon as they started. One rider, 167 Zach Bell kept getting back up and back into the game until he was finally out after a few tumultuous heats.
By the end of the night the riders were neck and neck in competition until the final heat when Supercross’ superstar James ‘Bubba’ Stewart, (Haines City, FL) had to scratch due to a broken clutch/clutch handle. The crowd was stunned to hear that the rider featured in the show Bubba’s World would not be competing in the evenings Main Event ride, especially since he was one of the track leaders during the event.
The night ended with 250 SX class riders, Dean Wilson in first place, Blake Wharton in second, and Wil Hahn in third place. 450 SX competitors placed with Ryan Villopoto receiving first, Davi Millsaps placing second, and Ryan Dungey placing third.
Supercross will make its way to Atlanta, GA. on Saturday, February 23, St. Louis, MO. on March 2, and Daytona, FL. March 9.
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