On a completely wild day in Pro Stock Motorcycle that featured upsets galore, John Hall finished the day in style, winning the opening race of the Countdown to the Championship for the second straight year by defeating first-time finalist Marc Ingwersen in the championship round after Ingwersen went red at US 131 Motorsports Park.
Hall went 6.808 at 194.22 on his Outlaw Beer Buell for Matt Smith Racing in the finals as well, picking up his first win of the season and the fifth in his career.
Ingwersen played the upset card well on Monday, defeating two-time champ Gaige Herrera in the first round, reigning world champ and points leader Richard Gadson in the second round and then No. 1 qualifier Ryan Oehler in the semifinals.
Hall wouldn’t be denied, though, as he defeated Clayton Howey, teammate Matt Smith and Ronald Procopio Jr. to reach the final round. Monday was a major shakeup in the category to open the postseason, but Hall was steady throughout and again started the Countdown with a major statement.
“It’s just a great feeling coming in strong and getting some momentum,” Hall said. “We did it last year, but let me tell you, I was ready to quit racing this weekend. I was so down on myself and that’s what drag racing does to you. I wasn’t riding like I wanted to, but I’m happy I’m back and I hope I’m back for a long time.
“I just go up there and do what I do. I don’t put a lot of thought or stress into it. It’s just awesome to be able to do this and these fans are awesome. The stands were full on a Monday and that was really cool to see. Everyone I raced was tough, so I knew I had to be good on the starting line. I got my confidence back, but it can go quick.”
Gadson leads Hall by a single point, with M. Smith 25 points back in third.
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