In the Western Regional 250SX Class, Jo Shimoda grabbed the Holeshot and led every lap to take the second Main Event win of his career. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki's Levi Kitchen nabbed a top-three start, moved into second, and closed in on the lead on the final lap. His second place finish moved him into a tie for the title going into the final round – the Dave Coombs Sr. East/West Showdown. After a fifth-place start, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing's RJ Hampshire was aggressive early and finished in third place, not far from Kitchen. Hampshire sits tied with Kitchen with one race remaining to determine the championship.
“Honestly, I didn’t know where he was catching me so I kind of had no idea where to push a little bit farther. But, oh my God. I mean, switching teams from last year, we fought some struggles earlier. But we never gave up. And I know it’s late in the season, I get it, but I’m just stoked to win. Let’s go! Thanks to all the HRC guys, my mechanic Ben, trainer Nick, Jordan, my family back home, well, actually a couple of them is here, but thank you so much.” – Jo Shimoda, when asked if he was aware Levi Kitchen was getting close in the final laps.
The 2024 Monster Energy Supercross Championship wraps up next Saturday, May 11th, inside Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah. All three championships: the 450SX class and as well as both the East and West Regional 250SX Classes will be determined at the Final race in Utah.
The race is also Round 17 of the 31-rounds of the SuperMotocross World Championship, which combines the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross season and the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross season. In September the combined points from both seasons seed the riders into two Playoff Rounds, and the SMX World Championship Final.
Jo Shimoda Grabs Victory in Denver 250SX Class with One Round Remaining in Season
