JUSTIN COOPER

The former 250MX standout was on-point for practice sessions in Minnesota — and was equipped to replicate those tactics for the two-moto format that followed. Once shifting into gear as the thirty-second board was turned horizontally, Cooper would proceed to round the opening circuit near the seventh-place position, while pressuring Dylan Ferrandis for sixth. Quickly working his way around Romain Pape, Cooper inherited the sixth-place position at that time — before again, partaking in a feud of sorts between he and the former, French champion. The pass was then made after the fifteen-minute mark had been surpassed, and Justin was now residing fifth...though a substantial gap was going to have to be overcome between he and Jason Anderson (who resided fourth). Though unable to significantly diminish the margin between he and the veteran from New Mexico, Cooper continued to fight through, to the checkered flag...and as he rounded the final right-handed bend, and crossed the finish line, his final standing (of fifth) was a notable platform to build form in the second moto. He attempted to sprint from the gate with all of his might for the following round of competition, and his efforts equated to an incredible hole-shot designation. He was swayed by his team manager(s) to choose the “scoop” tire for this particular moto...and it appeared to pay-off as steadily broke away from the field. Though he was overtaken in an overwhelming scenario of sorts, when both Hunter Lawrence and Justin Cooper, would surpass him around the fifteen-minute mark. Sexton then began to instantly speed away via the latter portion of the whoop section, which forced Cooper even further back from the rear wheel fo the Illinois native. However still residing third, he would do his best to put forth an admirable pace...however Jason Anderson, was making his way toward the realm of the Yamaha rider rather quickly. But he defended the third-place standing with commendable effort, so much so, that he would actually return to the presence of Hunter Lawrence (who was second), when nearing the checkered flag! Though briefly swerving off of the track amid the roller section in the final moments, Cooper’s stamina enabled him to secure the third-place registry as all concluded...equating to a summary of performances (i.e. five-three), and a brilliant, third place overall score in the record book for this 450MX division.