The 2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross series returned to action this past Sunday afternoon for round 11. H.E.P. Motorsports Kyle Cunningham had an impressive ride on his Suzuki RM-Z450 finishing inside the top 15. Adam Enticknap and Ryan Breece both came up short of the main but looking to rebound in two days at round 12.
Coming off a shoulder injury and with barely anytime on the bike, Kyle Cunningham had an impressive performance with 14th place overall in the 450cc Premiere Main Event. Having to fight his way into the main after coming up short in the heat race by one position, Kyle found himself in the LCQ where he was able to finish in second place. In the main, Kyle charged with the pack and finished strong inside the top 15.
“This first Salt Lake City race didn’t go too bad,” said Cunningham. “It started off a little bumpy in practice. I have not had much time on the bike since getting injured in Atlanta, literally six days on the motorcycle and two of those being supercross. I felt like the team did a great job today. Clark with the Ohlins Suspension made some good changes. Ended up with 14th overall first race back from injury. I’m ready to build off this result next round in a couple days.”
Ryan Breece was having a strong day in Salt Lake City before feeling the increasing effects of altitude sickness, ultimately causing him to miss the main event. In his heat race, Ryan got a strong start and was running inside the top 10 until he came together with another rider which cost him key transfer positions. In the LCQ, Ryan showed another great start and found himself leading the race, but dropped out early.
“It definitely wasn’t my best day back racing,” said Breece. “My starts are still prime, and my speed is still there, but elevation caused some problems today. We’re coming prepped and ready Wednesday!”
With the fastest qualifying time amongst the three H.E.P Motorsports’ riders, Adam Enticknap looked to have a strong day. Unfortunately in his heat race, Adam was not able to get the start he needed to put himself in a transfer position and missed the main. In the LCQ, Adam got a good start but came up short of a transfer position by two spots.
“The day went well overall,” said Adam. “I was really disappointed in my starts today. It’s nice that I only have one thing to work on over the next two days. Look forward to getting a little bit of redemption on Wednesday!”
“It has been a long break, but the team is glad to be back at the races,” said Team Manager, Dustin Pipes. “Kyle rode good in the main event in his first race back from his shoulder injury. Ryan had some tough luck, coming down with altitude sickness midway through winning his race. Luckily the Alpine Stars Medical crew was on hand to get him through it. Adam was the team’s fasted qualifier but couldn’t match his early day intensity in the races. We have six races to go in this series. I’m looking forward to continue battling with our racers.”
H.E.P. Motorsports preps for the 12th round as Kyle, Adam, and Ryan look to continue strong performances in the main event this Wednesday in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Photo Credit: Chase Lennemann
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About H.E.P. Motorsports: About H.E.P. Motorsports: Names using the initials of the founding members (George Holland, Billy Ezernack and Dustin Pipes) H.E.P. Motorsports brings winning motocross experience, enthusiasm and business savvy into the Supercross paddock. To learn more, visit www.HEPmotorsports.com.
About Suzuki: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) distributes Motorcycles, ATV’s, Scooters, Outboard Motors and Automotive Parts and Accessories via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATV’s, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.