As the THQ World and AMA Supercross series headed east last week, Moto XXX rider Damon Huffman had only one thing on his mindthe World Supercross GP championship points lead. A spirited come-from-behind ride at the previous round in San Francisco showed that the 2-time 125 Supercross champion has the heart to win, but wasnt enough to hold his narrow lead in the standings.
Things got off to a better start in Houston. Damon qualified for the 250cc main event out of his semi race, which was a nice change from having to ride the LCQ in the past couple of races. The main event, however, ended up being very reminiscent of the previous round.
I almost got a great start, Huffman explained afterward. I was very close to where I needed to be, but ended up getting pushed to the outside of the track and had horrible position after the first turn. Then it was the same as last weekI rode well and came through the pack.
Though the tenth place finish he got didnt match pre-race objectives, the end result was on par. With every position representing valuable points, Damons charge allowed him to regain the championship points lead. Where he entered the San Francisco round with a two point advantage, he now carries a ten point cushion to Minneapolis.
Having a ten point lead is great, Damon remarked. But theres still no room for error. My bike is awesome and Im riding well. I just need to focus on qualifying higher so that I have better gate picks for the main event. A good start is the only thing between me and more top finishes.
Huffman will continue to be the lone ranger in the Moto XXX pits until injured riders Larry Ward and Kyle Lewis can get back in the saddle, hopefully in about a month. Until then, hes only got Ray Top Tech Johnson and Billy the driver to fight for locker space!