SuperX: Kawasaki Oakland race report

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Tickle Takes Home First Win of the Season in Oakland

Corona, Calif. (January 31, 2011) - Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki's Broc Tickle earned his first win of the season during a wet Round 4 of the AMA Supercross Lites Western Region series at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. Tickle's finish brought him within one point of teammate Josh Hansen, who finished a solid second-place on the night. Making progress with his injured wrist, Tyla Rattray rode steady and consistent to finish fifth.

Tickle rode smart during a slippery and tough main event that saw him come from behind to take his first win of the season and second career victory.

"I don't even know what to say, I am so happy," said Tickle. "I was really motivated during the week after missing the podium last weekend. I felt good all week and came into Oakland with a good attitude. I wasn't fastest in practice, but I know that doesn't mean much. I did what I could to get a good start and let the race come to me."

Hansen put up a good fight in the 15-lap main event, but decided to ride smart after getting past by his teammate Tickle. He settled into second just after halfway and gained valuable championship points with his podium finish.

"I thought it ended up being a good night even though I didn't win," said Hansen. "Tickle rode really good. I was overriding the track and ended up making a lot of mistakes. I ended up getting into a groove and settled for second. I know that the championship won't be won here tonight, and I needed to be smart and not lose any more points."

Everyday Rattray continues to make progress with his injured wrist and it showed in Oakland with a solid fifth-place finish on the slippery and technical track.

"I felt pretty good this weekend," said Rattray. "The track was pretty gnarly with the ruts so it's nice to be in the top-five. I am making steps forward and getting healthy again, which is the most important. It will be nice to see where I am at after another race since I seem to be getting better every day."

The next event will bring the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team back to Anaheim, Calif. where the series started. Angel Stadium will not only host the fifth round of the Monster Energy Supercross, an FIM Championship, but the second annual breast cancer awareness event as Anaheim 2 "Goes Pink."

-source: kawasaki