Vet X Spring Series
MOTOCROSS - Vet X Spring Series
By Steve Emter
Photo By Steve Emter (Photo © Cycle News, Inc. 2006)
Costa Charges for the Win 6/5/2005
GORMAN, CA
The Vet X Spring Series wrapped up at I-5 MX in Gorman with round six, which provided plenty of action. After great weather graced the first four rounds, the final two rounds showed signs of spring, with winds that gradually increased through the day, adding a natural challenge for the riders. The I-5 track was groomed to perfection, with the long, flowing layout offering plenty of passing opportunities. As the wind increased, the track crew had a hard time keeping the track wet, and it developed dry, packed conditions as the day rolled on.
The 36-42 Novice class charged off the concrete gate and into the first turn, with Honda-mounted Phil Alderton (1) charging for the holeshot. Eishi Kajita hit the first turn right behind Alderton, and by the end of the first lap he’d taken the lead, with Alderton dropping off the pace. Behind them were Alba Action Sports-backed Rob Costa, HMS Capital-backed Mark Thies, and Kevin Glenn.
By lap three, the riders had sorted themselves out and had established a running order, with Kajita in the lead, Thies in second and Costa in third. Thies was pushing Kajita most of the moto, finishing two seconds behind, while Costa came in another eight seconds later.
The second moto of the class was just as exciting, with the lead positions being mixed up. The first-lap lead went to Jon Harpole, who was closely chased by Costa and Alderton. On the third lap, Costa and a hard-charging Ron Caldwell got by Harpole for the top two positions. Costa was able to hold on to the lead until the end, but the battle between Harpole and Caldwell was not over; Harpole repassed Caldwell to claim second. Caldwell was third for the moto.
The overall win went to Costa (3-1), second went to Harpole (5-2), and third went to Kajita (1-7). The series championship went to Glenn, with Costa second and a very consistent Caldwell third.