19.08.2019
Chambly, QC – As the MX series came to an end this weekend at Walton, we would like to congratulate our three KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Race Team Members Cole Thompson, Tanner Ward and Jess Pettis on their successful seasons. The eight round series was filled with highs and lows, but we are happy to see all three riders ending their season happy and healthy. We look forward to seeing everyone at the first round of the Triple Crown SX series in Montreal, Quebec on September 14th.
In the 250 class, Jess Pettis finished second overall in the 250 MX Series Championship. He was unable to defend his #1 plate from the 2018 MX series, but considering he started the season with a broken arm, he was happy with his results. Jess is excited to head into the SX series as it is one of his strengths! As for the day of racing at Walton, a bad stroke of luck left Pettis with a DNF in Moto 2 after a rock hit his clutch reservoir and caused a malfunction. He went 3-DNF for tenth overall.
Jess Pettis - KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Race Team 250 Rider: "The last round at Walton was a tough one. It started out great with qualifying first and a holeshot in the first Moto. I lead some laps but tipped over and ended up 3rd. The second moto ended quickly when a rock hit my clutch reservoir and wouldn’t allow my bike to move which resulted in a DNF. I was still able to finish second in the series which I was happy about"
Tanner Ward has kept things consistent all season long and it paid off. The young rider finished fifth overall in the 250 MX Series Championship. This was an improvement from the 2018 season where he finished seventh overall. We look forward to watching Tanner continually progress as he continues to mature in the sport. The #14 went 6-6 for fifth overall on the day at Walton Raceway.
Tanner Ward - KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Race Team 250 Rider: "Today at Walton was definitely not my best day of racing but there are still lots of positives to look at. I am happy with my speed even though a few small mistakes cost me. I'm happy to end up 5th overall in the series and excited to start SX racing in just under a month. Only moving forward from here!"
In the 450 class, Cole Thompson had a very impressive first Moto. He got out front fast and spent the race extending his lead. By the checkered flag he was 11 seconds in front of second place. Moto 2 was not as easy, and some small mistakes made it difficult for him to make the pass on second and first place. Despite the struggles, he was pleased with a second overall.
Cole Thompson - KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Race Team 450 Rider: "I am happy to wrap up the MX tour on the podium with second overall. I rode great in Moto 1 and led the race wire to wire. In Moto 2 I got off to a slow start and made too many mistakes during the race. It was a frustrating season with injuries and crashes but I'm thankful to have an amazing team behind me pushing 100% during every Moto. Looking forward to SX in a month and defending my title!”
On behalf of everyone here at KTM Canada, we want to extend a big congratulations to all KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Racers on their hard work, determination and perseverance throughout this eight round series.
The Triple Crown Series will go indoors for the next race in Montreal, Quebec on September 14th at Olympic Stadium.
Next race - First round of the Triple Crown SX series: Montreal, Quebec - September 14th, 2019
Walton Raceway Results, round 8/8:
450 Class Results
- Phil Nicoletti, Yamaha
- Cole Thompson, KTM
- Colton Facciotti, Honda
- Mike Alessi, Honda
- Keylan Meston, Yamaha
250 Class Results
- Dylan Wright, Honda
- Tyler Medaglia, Kawasaki
- Marshal Weltin, Husqvarna Motorcycles
- Marco Cannella, Yamaha
- Tanner Ward, KTM
Triple Crown MX Series Overall Championship Results:
450 MX Championship Results
- Colton Facciotti, Honda - 396 Points
- Mike Alessi, Honda - 374 Points
- Phil Nicoletti, Yamaha - 366 Points
- Cole Thompson, KTM - 330 Points
- Cade Clason, Husqvarna Motorcycles - 275 Points
250 MX Championship Results
- Dylan Wright, Honda - 417 Points
- Jess Pettis, KTM - 344 Points
- Tyler Medaglia, Kawasaki - 336 Points
- Marshal Weltin, Husqvarna Motorcycles - 327 Points
- Tanner Ward, KTM - 310 Points
Photos provided by: James Lissimore
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