DYLAN FERRANDIS

Honda’s Dylan Ferrandis appeared rejuvenated for this 450MX endeavor. He was anticipating a spectacular showing to be put forth in front of thousands of fans in Southern California, and appeared to deliver on that notion beginning with a solid practicing effort. A standout performer in all facets, Ferrandis took his talents to the line of the opening afternoon moto...and completed the first lap in sixth, after his rear wheel was clipped by Chase Sexton over an anthill on the far side of the track. He would stay upright though, and managed to zero-in on the rear fender of Justin Barcia who was ahead. Ferrandis wasn’t going to give up, and vowed to make a statement with his aggressive riding style. He couldn’t be pushed around, and proceeded to rival Barcia’s fierce antics with intricate maneuvering of his own. An eventual outside charge, displaying fearlessness on the Frenchman’s behalf was enough for Ferrandis to make a decisive pass on the number fifty-one — equating to fifth-place being garnered on lap six. Once there, his attrition was a trait that was enough to surpass Justin Cooper on the ninth circuit — to claim fourth. Ferrandis appeared well on his way to a solid finish inside the top-five, until an uncharacteristic mistake would occur on his behalf...sending him descending throughout the running order to a position of seventh, as the checkered flag waved. He sought redemption, and strove for a higher finish in the second moto as countless machines dove into the opening bend. Emerging from the first lap in ninth, the smooth style of Ferrandis was an attribute that definitely enabled him to move forward amongst a deteriorating racing canvas. He was somehow into fifth by the fourth circuit, making passes on opponents like Phil Nicoletti, Malcolm Stewart, and Justin Barcia! But once there, however, only Jason Anderson stood between him and the trio of riders that were breaking away from the field (i.e. Hunter Lawrence, Jett Lawrence, and Chase Sexton)...but the aforementioned pack, along with the New Mexico native, were riding brilliantly in pursuit of the checkered flag. Ferrandis effort was apparent as flat-landed countless jumps, landing on the throttle of a blistering 450cc engine while trying to lessen the time between he and his fellow combatants. Though ultimately, he was finalized in fifth — which positioned the French rider in fourth, amongst the final standings, respectively.