Husqvarna Racing's Troy Herfoss has kicked off his AMA season with a podium result, finishing 2nd in the Unlimited Class at the first round held in Wisconsin. The weather played a major role in the day's racing with all races being declared wet as the rain came down. Although it was Herfoss' first ever wet race, he rode like a wet weather veteran, edging out World Superbike team mate Leonardo Bagnis for second and narrowly missing the top position.
"I was already a bit nervous, being my first ride in the AMA, but then when it started raining I was even more anxious as I've never raced in the wet before. The bike (Husqvarna SM510R) had an awesome wet setup and I just cleared my mind and rode." Replied Herfoss when questioned about his first race
"To finish second in my first AMA ride is awesome, and I'm looking forward to the main event (S2 class)"
Although Herfoss was pleased with the Unlimited Class result, it was the main event that he was focused on, and all the big names were here. With limited testing time and another wet track, Herfoss qualified 10th for Heat 1 of the S2 class race.
The first race was long awaited by fans and riders, and the first heat of the AMA didn't disappoint. After qualifying 10th, Herfoss was out to impress and better his start position for Heat 2. With good bike speed and several impressive passing maneuvers, Herfoss guided his Team GP Husqvarna SM450R into 7th place, once again edging out his team mate.
Feeling more comfortable in the wet, Herfoss was confident heading into Heat 2 of the Supermoto main event and was looking for a top five result. Eight laps into the final race of the round, Herfoss came together with another rider while hitting a jump section. The result was a spectacular crash putting Herfoss out of the race. Although bruised, Herfoss was upbeat about the day's results,
"I'm over the moon with my rides, and finishing 2nd in the Unlimited Class was great. Although I'm disappointed about crashing out, it was a great experience that will only benefit me into the next rounds."
After the first round of competition, Herfoss is in second position in the AMA Supermoto unlimited and 16th position in the main AMA Supermoto class. The next round of the AMA Supermoto Championship will be held at USA International Raceway, Wisconsin on July 30.
Results:
AMA Supermoto
1. T. van den Bosch 47pts
2. J. Kunzel 40pts
3. D. Henry 37pts
4. B. Carlson 37pts
5. J. Ward 36pts
8. L. Bagnis 21pts (Team GP Husqvarna)
16. T. Herfoss 14pts (Team GP Husqvarna)
AMA Supermoto Unlimited
1. D. Baffeleuf 25pts
2. T. Herfoss 22pts (Team GP Husqvarna)
3. L. Bagnis 20pts (Team GP Husqvarna)