In what was the most exciting last lap of 2018, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Jason Anderson battled Ken Roczen for victory in Oakland. He maintains both his lead in 450 rider point standings and his grasp on the coveted red plate.
Jason Anderson was mid-pack at the start of his heat and rode solidly in the top 10 to finish sixth and transfer to the 450 Main Event. He pulled a top-10 start from the far outside in 450 Main and came out of the first lap in fifth. He made the pass for fourth a few laps later then took over second around the halfway mark after making a strong pass on Marvin Musquin. He closed in on the leader with three minutes to go and waited for the opportunity to strike. He made an impressive pass for the lead with just over two laps to go, but continued to battle with Ken Roczen for the position. He then put on one of the most amazing rides of his life as he swapped back and forth with Roczen and continued to battle. He made a definitive pass in the last lap to take an exciting victory and hold on to the points lead and the red plate.
“Today was a roller coaster day,” said Anderson. “I went over the bars in the first practice, then was able to regroup and come out third in qualifying. I didn’t have the best heat race, but then came back in the main and had the battle of my life. It was great. The track was insane, but I’m happy to come out of it with a win.”
450SX Main Event
1. Jason Anderson
2. Ken Roczen
3. Blake Baggett
4. Marvin Musquin
5. Justin Barcia
6. Cole Seely
7. Cooper Webb
8. Broc Tickle
9. Justin Brayton
10. Josh Grant
450SX Rider Point Standings
1. Jason Anderson – 115 points
2. Ken Roczen – 100 points
3. Justin Barcia – 98 points
4. Cole Seely – 87 points
5. Justin Brayton – 82 points
6. Weston Peick – 82 points
7. Blake Baggett – 78 points
8. Marvin Musquin – 73 points
9. Josh Grant – 71 points
10. Cooper Webb – 68 points